Every non-domestic building in the UK built before 2000 is likely to contain asbestos-containing materials. The dutyholder must maintain an asbestos management plan that identifies where asbestos is located, its condition, and the actions required to manage it safely. Construction workers must understand this plan before starting work in any existing building to avoid accidental disturbance of ACMs.
Key Hazards
Exposure to airborne asbestos fibres causing mesothelioma or lung cancer
Accidental disturbance of hidden asbestos during refurbishment or demolition
Failure to check the asbestos register before penetrating walls or ceilings
Inadequate management plan leaving unknown ACMs unrecorded in the building
Control Measures
Request and review the building's asbestos management plan before starting any intrusive work.
Check the asbestos register for the specific work area and confirm whether ACMs are present or presumed.
Do not drill, cut, or break into any material that may contain asbestos until it has been confirmed safe.
Report any suspected asbestos-containing material that is not shown on the register to the site manager.
Ensure a refurbishment and demolition survey has been completed before stripping out any building.
Brief all operatives on the locations of known and presumed ACMs in their work area.
Label all identified asbestos-containing materials with clear warning stickers or signage.
Stop work immediately if you accidentally disturb material you suspect contains asbestos.
Only licensed contractors may remove notifiable asbestos such as sprayed coatings and insulation.
Emergency / Rescue
If asbestos is accidentally disturbed, stop work immediately and evacuate the area. Seal the room, prevent anyone from entering, and report to your supervisor. Do not attempt to clean up the material yourself.
Remember
Always check the asbestos management plan and register before doing any intrusive work
Asbestos is likely present in any UK building constructed before the year 2000
Stop work immediately if you suspect you have accidentally disturbed asbestos material
A refurbishment and demolition survey is required before any strip-out or demolition begins
Only HSE-licensed contractors are permitted to remove notifiable asbestos materials
Applicable Legislation: Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 · HSG264 (Asbestos: The Survey Guide) · CDM Regulations 2015 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974