Avoiding Fines and Ensuring Safety: The Importance of Proper Asbestos Management
Introduction
Asbestos exposure remains a significant health hazard in the construction and refurbishment industry. Recent events underscore the critical importance of adhering to asbestos regulations and implementing rigorous safety measures. This article highlights a recent case where two companies faced substantial fines due to asbestos exposure, and underscores the necessity of proper asbestos management to prevent such incidents and avoid legal penalties.
Case Overview: Asbestos Exposure Incident
In June 2021, a 16-year-old worker was exposed to asbestos while working on an outbuilding of a domestic property in Richmond, North Yorkshire. The young worker, employed by P Turnbull Joinery and Building Services Ltd, was tasked with breaking up cement sheets from the roof and disposing of them. Unbeknownst to him, the cement sheets contained asbestos, leading to his exposure to harmful fibres.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation revealed that Alt Berg Holdings Limited had failed to conduct an essential asbestos refurbishment and demolition survey. This survey would have identified the presence of asbestos, allowing for appropriate safety measures to be taken. Additionally, P Turnbull Joinery and Building Services Ltd did not properly assess the work or implement measures to prevent asbestos exposure.
Legal Consequences
The legal repercussions for the involved companies were significant. P Turnbull Joinery and Building Services Ltd, based in Durham, admitted to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. Consequently, the company was fined £2,000 and ordered to pay £500 in costs. Similarly, Alt Berg Holdings Limited, located in Richmond, North Yorkshire, pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 4(4) of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015. They were fined £6,000 and ordered to pay £1,950 in costs.
The Importance of Asbestos Surveys
HSE Principal Inspector Chris Tilley emphasised that the incident could have been easily avoided through proper pre-construction measures. A comprehensive asbestos refurbishment and demolition survey would have identified the asbestos in the roofing materials. With this knowledge, contractors could have implemented suitable controls to safely remove the asbestos before commencing further work.
Core Surveys: Your Partner in Asbestos Management
At Core Surveys, we understand the complexities and dangers associated with asbestos. With over 20 years of experience, we offer a range of services designed to help organisations comply with current asbestos regulations and ensure the safety of their workers.
Our services include:
- Asbestos Surveys: We conduct thorough asbestos management, refurbishment, and demolition surveys to identify the presence of asbestos in buildings and structures.
- Asbestos Removals: Our team safely and efficiently removes asbestos-containing materials, minimising risk and ensuring compliance with legal standards.
- Land Remediation: We offer comprehensive land remediation services to address asbestos contamination in soil and other materials.
- Sample Analysis and Air Monitoring: Our in-house testing laboratory provides fast and accurate analysis of asbestos samples and air quality monitoring to ensure a safe environment.
- Asbestos Training: We provide specialised training programs to educate workers and organisations about asbestos safety and management.
Why Choose Core Surveys?
- Expertise: Our team comprises highly experienced professionals dedicated to providing top-notch asbestos management services.
- Accreditation: We are UKAS accredited to ISO/IEC 17020 and ISO/IEC 17025, ensuring the highest standards of quality and reliability in our services.
- Comprehensive Services: From surveys to removals and training, we offer a complete suite of asbestos management solutions.
- Nationwide Coverage: With offices in East Sussex and South Wales, we serve clients across London, the South East, Wales, the South West, and nationwide.
Conclusion
The recent case of asbestos exposure highlights the critical importance of proper asbestos management to ensure safety and avoid legal penalties. At Core Surveys, we are committed to helping organisations navigate the complexities of asbestos regulations and implement effective safety measures. Contact us today to discuss your asbestos management needs and obtain a quote. Together, we can create safer work environments and prevent unnecessary health risks and fines.
For more information, visit our website or call our offices in East Sussex and South Wales. Let us help you stay compliant and protect your workers from the dangers of asbestos.