Asbestos Identified in Bunsen Burner Gauze Mats

Gauze mats for use with Bunsen burners supplied by two UK laboratory supply companies have been identified as containing asbestos in the centre area.

The HSE has issued enforcement notices to stop the supply of the asbestos containing mats and ensure that affected mats are disposed of safely. They have also issued advice for schools, colleges and others that may have been supplied with the mats.

While the risk from the mats is considered to be low, any gauzes that contain asbestos should not be used and must be safely disposed of as asbestos waste. The HSE recommend that as a precaution, if you are not sure what any gauze coating is made of then you should assume that it contains asbestos and follow the guidance for safe disposal. Any debris should also be carefully cleaned up and disposed of.

Further information and guidance on how to clean up and dispose of the affected mats can be found on the HSE’s website at: http://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/wire-gauzes.htm