Hearth asbestos risk

[thebadger7]

Hi all

I've been pulling out a gas fireplace that was installed around 15 years ago.

What's view on asbestos risk level for the concrete hearth? There is a higher concrete layer inside, and a screed layer on the front part. Underneath that, you can see the pattern of the hearth tiles.

I want to hack back so can tile at same level of floor.

Thanks

 

[Cubist]

Is there any evidence of small fibres in that exposed screed? If not then it's unlikely to be asbestos but if you're in any doubt then you can ask your local authorities Environmental Services team to check and verify it. They would also advise, in the event asbestos is present, on safe practice for removal and safe disposal. Whatever, you decide to do; keep animals and small people out of the way, mask up and then break up the hearth in large lumps - you'll likely find some brickwork below the old cracked mortar/tile adhesive. Be careful though as joists for the wooden floor may be being carried on or in that brickwork.