1. If the asbestos-containing materials are in good condition, it is best to leave them where they are. Removing them may cause disturbance and can cause the release of asbestos fibers in the air. Check their condition every so often to ensure that they have not started to deteriorate or get damaged. If you plan on home improvements and maintenance, inform the builders and workers of the presence of asbestos-containing materials before they start working so that they can avoid causing any disturbance to the mineral.

2. If there are slight damages on the asbestos-containing materials, it is recommended to enclose or seal them. Better yet, seek the advice of concerned local departments on the most appropriate action.
3. If the materials containing asbestos are already deteriorating or are badly damaged, they should be removed. For this, you would need to contact people who know how to do this best because some items, like sprayed asbestos, lagging and insulating boards, must be removed by contractors who have a special license from the Government. There are regulations to follow to ensure that asbestos removal is done safely. Seek assistance from your local environmental health office; they can give you names of licensed contractors.
Sometimes some materials need immediate replacement when removed (such as fire protection); so you need careful planning prior to the removal.

In Summary
Therefore, you should take note of the following:
- Do not disturb or damage asbestos materials that are in good condition.
- Seek advice if there are deteriorating or damaged asbestos materials in your household.
- Safely dispose all items in your home (even small items) that contain asbestos.
- If you suspect that any of your heating systems contain asbestos, check them with the local electricity or gas supplier. If they are found to contain asbestos, do not try to disassemble them yourself; rather seek advice from the right people.
- Take note that only licensed contractors can remove certain materials with asbestos content. Do not attempt to do what you are not licensed to do.

Precautions when employing DIY


If you will do the DIY yourself, please take extra caution.
1. Other people should be kept away from the area.
2. Wear disposable protective attire (e.g. overalls) and a disposable mask to prevent asbestos from being breathed in.
3. Wet the asbestos materials so they will not produce dusts.
4. If possible, work outside and do not work overhead.
5. Unless when necessary, do not disturb asbestos by drilling, cutting or scraping. There are soft asbestos materials that can easily release an excessive amount of fibers with little rubbing.
6. The use of hand tools is more recommended than power tools.
7. Industrial vacuum will work better than household vacuum cleaner. Hire one that conforms to Type H or BS 5415.
8. After the work, thoroughly clean the area; carefully dispose the clothes and materials used in the process. Double bag disposable items and dispose of them appropriately. Non-disposable materials should be immediately washed, do not mix them from items that were not used in the work to avoid contamination.