Asbestos cement pipe (AC)

Asbestos cement pipe, often abbreviated AC, was widely installed in the UK between roughly 1930 and the early 1980s for surface water drainage, soil and vent pipes and rainwater downpipes. The pipe contains asbestos fibres bound in a cement matrix and is identifiable by its grey, slightly fibrous appearance and rounded socket profile. While intact AC pipe poses minimal health risk, cutting, drilling or breaking the material can release respirable fibres. HSE guidance under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 requires that any disturbance is carried out by a competent contractor with appropriate respiratory protection and waste disposal arrangements. AC pipework is commonly encountered in postwar London housing, particularly in loft cold water systems and external soil stacks. Replacement should only be undertaken following a refurbishment and demolition survey identifying the material.