Demolition Dust in UAE: Asbestos Risks Demand Expert Management

August 11, 2025 Simon Pickup

Demolition of a tower in Abu Dhabi, UAE, 2025

Across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, rapid demolition is transforming city skylines—but the dust clouds drifting over nearby streets may hide more than just sand. Many older buildings contain asbestos, a hazardous material that, when disturbed, can release microscopic fibers linked to serious illnesses. Without proper surveys, removal protocols, and air monitoring, demolition risks exposing workers and the public alike.

The Hidden Hazards in Thermal Power Plant Rehabilitation: Why Asbestos Management is Vital

June 16, 2025 Simon Pickup

The rehabilitation of aging Thermal Power Plants (TPPs) is crucial for improving energy efficiency and meeting modern environmental standards, but it also unveils a significant health hazard: asbestos. Widely used in older plants for insulation, fireproofing, and electrical components, asbestos poses serious risks when disturbed during renovation, potentially exposing workers to diseases like mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. Failure to manage asbestos properly can lead to health and legal consequences, project delays, and reputational damage. Engaging expert asbestos consultants ensures safe identification, handling, and removal of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) and helps meet regulatory and international funding requirements. As rehabilitation efforts continue across regions such as India, Southeast Asia, and the CIS, addressing asbestos risks is critical to project success and worker safety.

Will There Ever be a Global Asbestos Ban?

February 2, 2025 Simon Pickup

Chrysotile Asbestos Packages: A Glimpse into Ongoing Global Usage

Despite its well-documented health risks, including lung cancer and mesothelioma, asbestos remains in use globally, with significant consumption in countries like China, Russia, and India. As of 2023, global consumption of unmanufactured asbestos fiber was estimated to be between 1.1 million and 1.3 million metric tons annually. Efforts to implement a worldwide ban face challenges due to economic dependencies and industry lobbying. Achieving a global prohibition necessitates international collaboration, economic transition support for affected nations, and comprehensive public education on asbestos hazards.

The Dangers Lurking in Our Power and Water Infrastructure: Why Asbestos Management is Critical for HPP Rehabilitation

January 17, 2025 Simon Pickup

Hydropower's Hidden Challenge: Modernizing Aging Infrastructure Safely While Addressing Asbestos Risks

The article highlights the critical importance of asbestos management during the rehabilitation of aging hydropower plants (HPPs), many of which were built over 40 years ago and contain asbestos in insulation, gaskets, and cement materials. It emphasizes the severe health risks posed by asbestos exposure during refurbishment projects and the potential for project delays, legal liabilities, and reputational damage if not properly managed. The article advocates for engaging expert asbestos consultancy services to conduct thorough surveys, develop management plans, and ensure compliance with global standards like those set by the World Bank, IFC, and UK HSE. By addressing asbestos risks proactively, contractors can safeguard workers, ensure project success, and meet international funding requirements.

The Silent Threat in the Stands: Asbestos in Sports Stadiums - Why Awareness and Action Are Critical

January 3, 2025 Simon Pickup

Major sports event are becoming increasingly popular in the Middle East

Over the past decade, the Middle East has emerged as a hub for international sporting events, fueled by significant investments in state-of-the-art sports facilities and supporting infrastructure. However, this surge in development has brought to light a critical health hazard—Asbestos. Widely used in older sports stadiums for its heat resistance and fireproofing properties, Asbestos poses severe risks when its materials are damaged during refurbishment or demolition. Exposure can lead to life-threatening diseases like mesothelioma and asbestosis, emphasizing the need for comprehensive Asbestos surveys, proper management plans, and professional abatement processes to ensure the safety of workers, athletes, and fans.

Beneath the Surface: Uncovering the Hidden Dangers of Asbestos in UAE Infrastructure Upgrade

December 6, 2024 Simon Pickup

An unearthed and badly damaged Asbestos Cement (AC) pipe adjacent to a main highway in Dubai, UAE.

As the UAE embarks on ambitious infrastructure upgrades, a hidden challenge lies beneath the surface—Asbestos cement pipework still buried across the nation. Once widely used for water supply, sewerage, and stormwater drainage, these aging pipes pose significant health and environmental risks when disturbed. Construction workers and even the public face potential exposure to Asbestos fibers during excavation and handling, leading to serious diseases like mesothelioma and Asbestosis. With the nation poised for transformative development, prioritising Asbestos management is not just a technical necessity but a vital step to ensure public safety and sustainable progress.

Asbestos in Middle Eastern Schools: Essential Safety Guidelines, Risks, and Community Action for a Safer Learning Environment

November 13, 2024 Simon Pickup

Hidden Danger - Asbestos in Schools - Photo by Elizabeth Lizzie

Asbestos has long been a hidden hazard in schools across the Middle East, with its use originally intended to enhance fire safety and insulation. However, asbestos poses serious health risks, especially to children whose developing respiratory systems are more vulnerable. Although banned in the UAE since 2006, asbestos still lingers in many older school buildings, from ceiling tiles to insulation and roofing materials. Schools, staff, and parents each play a vital role in ensuring a safe learning environment. By staying informed, asking questions, and supporting proactive asbestos management, together we can reduce the risk of asbestos exposure and prioritize the health and safety of our students, teachers, and community.

Everything You Need to Know About Asbestos-Free Certificates for Buildings and Products

November 7, 2024 Simon Pickup

Mockup image of an ‘Asbestos Free Certificate’

An Asbestos-Free Certificate is a crucial document that certifies a building, material, or product is free from asbestos, a hazardous material once common in construction and manufacturing. This certification is often required before property renovations, demolitions, and sales to ensure safe handling and compliance with health standards. It is also essential when importing or exporting items like vehicles and vessels, where asbestos content could hinder transit across borders. Obtaining the certificate involves a detailed inspection process, from hiring a certified asbestos inspector to conducting laboratory testing. With varying regulations worldwide, securing this certification ensures safe environments and smooth, compliant operations across jurisdictions.

Safe Asbestos Waste Disposal: Best Practices for Landfill Management and Environmental Protection

October 31, 2024 Simon Pickup

Safe loading of double-wrapped, sealed, and labeled asbestos waste for secure transportation in the UAE

This blog explores the best practices for Asbestos waste disposal, focusing on the challenges of managing this hazardous material through safe landfill methods. We examine the environmental, health, and logistical risks associated with asbestos landfills, including long-term containment, groundwater contamination, and public health concerns. The post outlines the key steps for constructing Asbestos landfills, including liner systems, leachate management, and regulatory compliance. Additionally, it provides guidance on proper Asbestos waste handling, packaging, and safe unloading procedures. With Asbestos remaining a global issue, understanding these best practices is essential for ensuring safe and effective Asbestos disposal.

Best Practices for Asbestos Management in Commercial Real Estate

October 10, 2024 Simon Pickup

Hidden dangers that could be present in commercial real estate - Photo by Sean Pollock on Unsplash

This blog highlights best practices for managing asbestos in commercial real estate. It covers essential steps such as conducting regular asbestos surveys, creating an asbestos management plan, hiring licensed removal experts, and keeping staff educated. It also emphasizes the importance of legal compliance and safe renovation practices to prevent asbestos exposure. The blog concludes with a reminder to maintain clear communication with tenants about asbestos-related activities to ensure transparency and safety. These practices help property owners protect occupants and adhere to legal regulations.

Comprehensive Guide to Asbestos Management in Saudi Arabia: Risks, Regulations, and Best Practices

July 24, 2024 Simon Pickup

Old Building - Saudi Arabia - Photo by Yasser Mutwakil ياسر متوكل on Unsplash

The discovery of oil in Saudi Arabia in 1938 initiated a construction boom that extensively utilized asbestos, now recognized for its severe health risks. Although banned in 1998, asbestos remains a significant concern, particularly in older buildings and during demolition activities. Effective asbestos management in Saudi Arabia necessitates mandatory surveys, comprehensive management plans, and stringent enforcement of regulations. Public awareness campaigns and professional training are crucial to mitigating asbestos risks and ensuring safety. This guide explores the current challenges and best practices for asbestos management in the Kingdom, highlighting the importance of proactive measures to protect public health and the environment.

The Hidden Dangers of Asbestos Cement Pipes in the Middle East: What You Need to Know

July 15, 2024 Simon Pickup

Asbestos cement pipes, common in older Middle Eastern infrastructure, pose significant health risks as they degrade, potentially releasing harmful fibers that can cause serious diseases like asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. Factors such as extreme heat, rapid urbanization, and improper handling exacerbate this risk

UAE's Robust Fight Against Cancer: Asbestos Management Takes Center Stage

April 25, 2024 Simon Pickup

Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

Discover how the UAE is combating cancer with a focus on asbestos management. Learn about the nation's innovative cancer screening programs, the ongoing challenges posed by asbestos in construction, and the vital role of asbestos management consultancies. Join the UAE's effort to enhance public health and safety standards, reducing cancer risks and protecting future

Understanding and Managing Asbestos Risks in War Zones: A Comprehensive Guide

December 18, 2023 Simon Pickup

Asbestos Materials in War Zones - Photo by Emad El Byed on Unsplash

Asbestos, widely used in building materials for its durability, becomes a significant health hazard in war zones like Iraq, Syria, Yemen, and Palestine, where its fibers are released from damaged buildings. The Middle East, with a history of importing asbestos and operating factories, such as the one in Lebanon, is especially at risk. Our company, specializing in asbestos surveying and removal across the Middle East, including the UAE, focuses on mitigating these risks in high-risk areas. In war zones, civilians, military personnel, and aid workers face heightened exposure to asbestos, leading to severe health issues like mesothelioma and lung cancer. Our comprehensive approach includes rigorous safety protocols, advanced containment, and filtration systems, and adherence to international standards, ensuring effective management of asbestos-related risks in these challenging environments.

Navigating Asbestos Regulations: A Comprehensive Guide for Importing Vehicles

November 15, 2023 Simon Pickup

Could there be Asbestos in your vehicle? Photo by Garett Mizunaka on Unsplash

This comprehensive blog delves into the intricate challenges associated with the use of asbestos in vehicles and the stringent regulations governing its importation into territories, with a particular focus on Australia. The blog underscores the importance of meticulous documentation by importers, necessitating accurate information on the vehicle's construction materials and declarations of asbestos presence or absence.

Safe and Sustainable Decommissioning: Managing Hazardous Materials in the Oil and Gas Industry, with a Focus on Asbestos

September 12, 2023 Simon Pickup

Oil and Gas platforms are known to contain a number of hazardous materials. Photo by Gabriel Xavier on Unsplash

Discover the challenges of decommissioning oil and gas assets, driven by changing industry dynamics and environmental goals. Learn how to manage hazardous materials, including asbestos, during the decommissioning process, prioritizing safety and environmental protection. Early assessments, specialized removal contractors, and meticulous planning are key. Navigate the unique challenges of offshore decommissioning while ensuring a safe and sustainable future for the industry

Everything You Need to Know About Asbestos in Power Stations: Identification, Health Risks, Removal and Regulations

April 17, 2023 Simon Pickup

Asbestos insulation found around boilers and calorifiers in a Hydroelectric Power Plant (HPP)

Anthesis Team members have been working in the power and water sector in the Middle East, Africa, the Balkans and Central Asia for the past 15 years, surveying for, and removing Asbestos and other hazardous materials. Asbestos, due to its durability and resistance to heat and chemicals, is a prime material for use in a power station and as a result can pose a significant hazard to human health, especially during rehabilitation.

Back to Basics - What is Asbestos and How is it Identified?

December 19, 2022 Simon Pickup

Asbestos in a derelict building - Photo by Alwan Ibrahim on Unsplash

A blog looking at what Asbestos is, how it is identified and what types of Asbestos surveys are best suited to identify Asbestos in your building.

Could the UAE Become the First Asbestos-Free Country in the World?

July 26, 2022 Simon Pickup

Is an Asbestos-Free UAE possible? Photo by ZQ Lee on Unsplash

With a strong commitment from the government could the United Arab Emirates (UAE) become the first country in the world to eradicate the deadly material and declare its territory as Asbestos free? In this blog article we explore if this is possible and how it could be achieved.

The Most Common Asbestos Materials in the Middle East

July 19, 2022 Simon Pickup

Badly damaged Asbestos cement found in a residential area of Dubai, UAE

A blog to discuss the most commonly found Asbestos materials in the UAE and the wider Middle Eastern region.