When people think of asbestos, they often picture it in old buildings, insulation, or roofing materials. But its use was far more widespread, and sometimes surprisingly well-hidden. One recent case study highlights just how asbestos can turn up in unexpected places, offering a timely reminder for ongoing vigilance, especially in heritage and industrial settings.
Uncovering Asbestos in Historic Trains
As part of a scheduled reinspection of a vintage railway coach, our team revisited previously identified asbestos materials to assess their current condition and ensure ongoing safety. This reinspection formed part of a wider programme covering various types of heritage railway stock - including not only passenger coaches, but also diesel and steam locomotives.
These regular check-ups are essential, even when asbestos has already been recorded, to manage risk and support safe restoration practices across heritage rail settings.
Thanks to the insight of industry expert Andy Mould, and with the support of the Chasewater Light Railway Museum, who are located in Chasewater Country Park near Lichfield, our team was able to conduct a thorough assessment. Andy’s extensive knowledge of rail heritage, particularly around diesel and steam locomotives, proved invaluable in identifying areas where asbestos had historically been used, often for fireproofing or thermal insulation.
Locomotive Asbestos alongside an 1890s Manchester, Sheffield & Lincolnshire carriage. Built in 1909, Asbestos served the Washington Chemical Co. and later Turner & Newall, who donated it in 1968. The railway is now fundraising to restore it to service.
A National Significance
These findings don’t just impact local heritage sites. The knowledge gained from these inspections could have broader implications, potentially benefiting national institutions such as the National Railway Museum, where Andy has expressed a willingness to collaborate. This partnership could lead to safer restoration practices and improved asbestos awareness across the UK’s railway preservation community.
Why This Matters
Asbestos was widely used in locomotives and rolling stock for decades, often in brake linings, pipe lagging, insulation around boilers, and more. Much of this material remains in situ, especially in vehicles that haven’t yet undergone full restoration or modern health and safety assessments.
The recent inspections revealed that even items thought to be clear of asbestos can still pose a risk. This underscores the importance of reinspection, particularly as rolling stock ages or as restoration work progresses.
Asbestos Pipe insulation and textile warp located under a 1960’s British Rail built coach, well encapsulated and safe unless disturbed and damaged.
Celebrating 60 Years of Chasewater Light Railway
We’d like to extend our congratulations to Chasewater Light Railway as they celebrate their 60th anniversary, a fantastic milestone for a dedicated team preserving an important part of railway history.
It’s been a pleasure working with them on recent asbestos inspections, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration to help ensure their heritage stock remains safe for future generations to enjoy.
Asbestos - A Legacy Issue
Asbestos isn’t just a building problem, it’s a legacy issue that can surface in the most unexpected places. From the cab of a diesel locomotive to the boiler compartment of a vintage steam engine, it’s crucial that we continue to monitor, inspect, and educate.
Our thanks to Andy Mould and the team at Chasewater Light Railway for their support and cooperation. Together, we’re not just preserving the past - we’re protecting the future.
Hunslet Engine Company ‘Hollybank No 3’ at Chasewater Heaths Station (Photo by Andy Mitchell)
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