The short answer
Old pipe lagging, sprayed coatings and asbestos insulating board (AIB) are among the higher-risk asbestos materials. They contain more asbestos and release fibres more easily than cement. Removing them is licensed work in almost every case, which means a contractor holding an HSE licence. If you suspect any of these, don’t touch it.
Where you’ll find them
- Pipe lagging: on heating pipes and tanks, often in basements, under floors, in airing cupboards and in older boiler houses. It may be white, grey or off-white and can look like plaster or cloth.
- Sprayed coatings: mainly in commercial and industrial buildings, on steelwork and ceilings. They are rare in houses.
- AIB panels: lining boiler and airing cupboards, behind old fires and heaters, under stairs, in ceilings and in boxing around pipes.
- Inside old boilers and heaters: rope seals, gaskets and panels.
Why they’re higher risk
Lagging and sprayed coatings can be loosely bound and crumbly, and insulating board is softer than cement. A knock, a drill or a scrape can release fibres. That’s why the law sets stricter rules. HSE says licensed work includes “any work on sprayed asbestos”, “most repair or any removal of asbestos insulation, for example lagging on pipes”, and “most work on asbestos insulating boards” (HSE).
Don’t touch it
- Don’t strip, cut, drill, sand or brush it.
- Don’t store things in a way that knocks against it.
- Don’t try to patch it with tape or paint unless you know it’s safe to do so.
- Tell any plumber, heating engineer or electrician about it before they start work.
HSE’s advice to householders is clear: sprayed coatings, lagging and insulating board “should only be removed by a contractor licensed by HSE” (HSE FAQs).
If it’s damaged or you’ve disturbed it
- Stop work and keep everyone, including pets, out of the area.
- Close the door and don’t try to clean up. Don’t sweep or use a household vacuum.
- Get the material tested, or treat it as asbestos until you know.
- Have it dealt with by a contractor holding an HSE licence.
HSE’s sheet EM1 explains what workers should do after accidental disturbance. If you’re worried about exposure, speak to your GP. The NHS has information on mesothelioma. See also exposed to asbestos: what to do.
Old boilers and heaters
Some lower-risk parts can be dealt with as non-licensed work by trained trades. HSE’s A25 sheet covers removing asbestos rope seals and gaskets, for example. But a boiler cupboard lined with insulating board is a different matter. Have the panels tested before a boiler swap, so the heating engineer knows what they’re working next to.
What to do next
Start with a test or survey. A sample will confirm whether it’s asbestos and what type. If you’re planning wider work, a refurbishment and demolition survey covers everything in the work area.
If licensed removal is needed, the contractor will notify the work at least 14 days ahead, work inside an enclosure and arrange four-stage clearance by an independent analyst. Before you hire anyone for licensed work, check them on the list of current licence holders linked from HSE’s licensable work page. Licences last up to three years, so check the current list rather than an old certificate. See licensed asbestos removal, or ask us for testing and advice.
Quick answers
Is old white pipe lagging asbestos?
It may be. Some lagging is, and some isn’t. Treat it as asbestos until a sample has been tested.
Can a plumber remove asbestos lagging?
Not unless they hold an HSE licence. Removal of asbestos lagging is licensed work.
Is AIB in a boiler cupboard dangerous?
In good condition and left alone, the risk is low. Don’t drill, cut or break it, and have it tested before any work nearby.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. For the law itself, see the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and HSE’s asbestos pages. Not sure what you’re dealing with? Ask us.