Asbestos replacement with sandwich panels: everything you need to know about the correct disposal of asbestos in Portugal

What is asbestos and why is it so dangerous?

Asbestos is a natural mineral composed of microscopic fibers that split easily. When inhaled, these fibers can remain in the lungs for many years, causing scarring and inflammation that can lead to serious illnesses. Because of this risk, in 2005, the European Union banned the use of asbestos in all new products and imposed strict measures for its removal from existing buildings.

In Portugal, the removal of asbestos is particularly important in old buildings, such as schools, hospitals and factories, which often still contain this material in roofs, pipes or coatings. The removal process requires special care and must be carried out by certified specialists, in accordance with current legislation.

Advantages of sandwich panels in replacing asbestos

Os sandwich panels emerged as an effective solution for the replacement of asbestos, offering several advantages in terms of safety and efficiency:

1. Thermal and acoustic insulation. Thanks to their structure composed of two layers of metal or other resistant material and an insulating core (generally polyurethane or rock wool), sandwich panels offer excellent thermal and acoustic insulation capacity. This significantly reduces the costs of heating and cooling buildings.
2. Sustainability. Unlike asbestos, which is toxic and dangerous, sandwich panels are sustainable, recyclable and environmentally friendly materials. Many of them are manufactured with recyclable components, which helps reduce the environmental impact of construction.
   
3. Fire resistance. Depending on the material used in the core, sandwich panels can be highly resistant to fire, a crucial factor in building safety.
4. Durability and low maintenance. Sandwich panels are designed to withstand adverse weather conditions, such as humidity, strong winds, and temperature variations. This makes them a long-term solution with minimal maintenance requirements.
5. Fast and flexible installation. Compared to traditional materials, sandwich panels are much easier and faster to install, which reduces labor costs and construction time.

Asbestos removal and disposal process in Portugal

Asbestos removal is a complex task that requires compliance with a series of steps and legal requirements to ensure the safety of workers and residents. In Portugal, this process is regulated by European and national legislation, such as Directive 2009/148/EC of the European Union, which defines the rules to protect workers exposed to asbestos.

Here are the key steps in the asbestos removal and disposal process:

1. Risk identification and assessment. Before starting any work, it is essential to carry out a detailed inspection of the building to identify the presence of asbestos-containing materials. This inspection must be carried out by specialized technicians, who also assess the condition of the materials and the level of risk.
2. Removal planning. After asbestos is identified, a detailed removal plan is created, which includes safety measures, such as the isolation of the area, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by workers, and the use of special extraction methods to prevent the dispersion of asbestos fibers in the air.
3. Removal by certified professionals. Asbestos dismantling must be carried out by certified companies that have the appropriate equipment and training to handle this hazardous material. These companies are required to follow strict standards to minimize exposure to asbestos, using safe and effective removal techniques.
4. Transportation and disposal in specialized landfills. After removal, asbestos must be packed in special containers and transported to landfills authorized to receive this type of hazardous waste. Transportation must also be carried out by licensed companies, which guarantee safety throughout the process.
5. Monitoring and final cleaning. Once removal is complete, the area must be carefully monitored to ensure that no asbestos fibers remain. In addition, strict cleaning of the site is necessary before workers or residents can return.

Legislation and penalties for non-compliance with the rules

In Portugal, non-compliance with asbestos removal and disposal rules can result in severe penalties, including high fines and legal liabilities. Companies that carry out asbestos removal without certification, or that do not comply with safety requirements, can face significant penalties. Additionally, building owners who attempt to remove asbestos without the assistance of certified professionals may be held responsible for any harm caused to public health.

Why sandwich panels are the best choice to replace asbestos

In addition to the advantages mentioned above, sandwich panels are the ideal choice for asbestos replacement due to their versatility in different applications. They can be used on roofs, exterior walls, and interior partitions, providing a complete and efficient solution. Construction companies in Portugal are increasingly opting for this material, both in renovation and new construction projects, due to its ability to combine safety, efficiency and modern aesthetics.‍

The replacement of asbestos with sandwich panels is not only a matter of safety, but also of improving the performance and sustainability of buildings. In Portugal, the asbestos removal process must be carried out in accordance with legal regulations, ensuring that this dangerous material is disposed of in a safe and responsible manner. Sandwich panels, in turn, offer a modern, safe and durable solution that contributes to energy efficiency and the sustainability of buildings.

By working with a specialized company, you can guarantee the safe replacement of asbestos and the installation of sandwich panels with the highest quality and professionalism.