Asbestos Roofs: No Over-Roofing Allowed, Says Leading Contractor, IndawoAccording to Indawo, a leading registered asbestos and roofing contractor in Cape Town, building owners are prohibited from over-roofing existing asbestos roofs. This prohibition aligns with the Asbestos Abatement Regulations 2020. Recent clarifications from the Department of Employment and Labour, which state that no asbestos should be disturbed to install substructures or new roof sheeting over existing asbestos roofs.
Understanding Regulations
Indawo managing director, Geoffrey Jäck, says the Asbestos Abatement Regulations were established to ensure the safe removal of asbestos. This is to protect public and employee health. These regulations are strict to prevent the release of asbestos fibres, which are hazardous when inhaled.
In fact, the recent communications from the Department of Employment and Labour reinforce the regulations and clarify that any activity that could disturb asbestos, including over-roofing, is prohibited.
Risks of Disturbing Asbestos
Jäck confirms that asbestos, once used in building materials for its fire-resistant and insulating properties, is a proven health risk. When asbestos is disturbed, fibres are released into the air and inhaled, leading to serious respiratory illnesses such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
Because of these health risks, handling of asbestos is highly regulated. And any work involving asbestos must be carried out by Type 2 & 3 Registered Asbestos Contractors approved by the Department of Employment and Labour.
Implications for Building Owners
Jäck warns building owners to adhere to regulations. Any attempt to over-roof would inevitably disturb asbestos materials. As such, this poses health risks and could lead to legal liabilities. Instead, building owners should consider the safe removal and disposal of asbestos, carried out by registered asbestos contractors who ensure the process complies with all regulations.
Safe Alternative
So, for owners of buildings that have asbestos roofs, it is recommended to engage with registered asbestos contractors, like Indawo. These contractors, with the advice of registered asbestos health and safety consultants, will assess all asbestos on buildings. Furthermore, they will provide an asbestos inventory, assessment, and management plan, all of which are required in terms of the Asbestos Abatement Regulations.
Registered asbestos contractors will safely remove and dispose of asbestos materials. This reduces health risks and ensuring compliance with the law. Following the removal, building owners can install a new roofing system.
The Department of Employment and Labour’s clarifications reinforce the importance of safe asbestos management. Over-roofing on asbestos roofs is not only illegal, but it also poses serious health risks.
So, what now?
First thing to remember is that building owners should prioritise the safe removal of asbestos. To do this they should commission registered asbestos contractors to protect the health of occupants and comply with the law. As such, registered asbestos contractors, with their expertise and certification, assist building owners in navigating these regulations and ensuring a safe and compliant roofing solution.
For more information contact Indawo on 021 941 5000 or email info@indawo.biz.