Asbestos remains a serious workplace hazard in the UK, contributing to the deaths of 20 tradespeople every week due to past exposure. Proper management is crucial to preventing exposure for contractors, tenants, property managers, and other individuals in their daily activities.
Below, we address key questions regarding asbestos, its associated health risks, and the responsibilities of those overseeing premises.
What is Asbestosis, and what are its symptoms?
Asbestosis is a severe, chronic lung disease caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers. Symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty swallowing
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Swelling in the neck and face
Where is asbestos commonly found?
Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) may be found in various parts of a property. They are generally classified into lower-risk and higher-risk categories:
- Lower-risk ACMs: Floor tiles, cement flues and sheets, textured coatings
- Higher-risk ACMs: Sprayed coatings, loose-fill asbestos, asbestos dust/debris, asbestos insulating board (AIB) ceiling tiles
Do materials need testing to confirm asbestos presence?
Yes. Asbestos cannot be identified through visual inspection alone and must be tested by a specialist. Many non-asbestos materials appear similar to asbestos-containing ones, so all suspect materials should be presumed to contain asbestos until confirmed otherwise.
During an asbestos survey, a qualified surveyor collects samples, which are then analysed by a UCAS-accredited laboratory for confirmation.
What is the ‘Duty to Manage’ asbestos?
The Duty to Manage Asbestos is defined under Regulation 4 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
The dutyholder (e.g., employer, property manager, or landlord) is responsible for minimizing asbestos exposure risks by following these four key steps:
- Identify whether the premises contain asbestos, its location, and condition. If uncertain, assume materials contain asbestos.
- Assess the risk posed by any identified asbestos.
- Develop and implement a risk management plan.
- Provide relevant asbestos information to anyone who may disturb it (e.g., building contractors).
To fulfill this duty, a professional asbestos management survey should be conducted. The surveyor will assess the premises, collect necessary samples, and provide expert recommendations based on the findings.
Are asbestos surveys required for all buildings?
Buildings constructed after 2000 are generally asbestos-free, as asbestos was banned in construction materials in 1999. Therefore, an asbestos survey is not required for such buildings.
However, property owners and managers must still comply with general health and safety regulations. Any maintenance or renovation work should be carried out safely, ensuring that personnel working in older buildings are trained and aware of asbestos risks.
