Managing Asbestos in Non-Domestic Buildings – Key Insights from the HSE Podcast

At JSL Asbestos Solutions, we understand the importance of managing asbestos safely and effectively in non-domestic buildings. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recently released an informative podcast as part of their Asbestos – Your Duty campaign, which provides valuable guidance for duty holders. Here’s a summary of the key points discussed, along with actionable advice to help you meet your legal obligations.

Why Asbestos Remains a Critical Issue

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was widely used in construction for its fire-retardant and insulating properties. Despite being banned in the UK since 1999, it remains present in many buildings constructed before the year 2000. When disturbed, asbestos releases tiny fibres that, if inhaled, can cause serious illnesses such as mesothelioma and lung cancer. Tragically, asbestos-related diseases claim around 5,000 lives annually in the UK – more than road traffic accidents.

The Legal Duty to Manage Asbestos

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 places a legal obligation on duty holders to manage asbestos in non-domestic buildings. This includes identifying asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), assessing the risks, and implementing a management plan to prevent exposure.

Key steps to managing asbestos include:

Identify if asbestos is present: If your building was constructed or refurbished before 2000, it’s likely to contain asbestos. Conduct a management survey to locate ACMs.

1. Identify if asbestos is present: If your building was constructed or refurbished before 2000, it’s likely to contain asbestos. Conduct a management survey to locate ACMs.
   

2. Assess the risk: Not all asbestos materials pose the same risk. Some, like friable asbestos, release fibres easily, while others, such as floor tiles, are less hazardous unless disturbed.
   

3. Create a management plan: Develop a plan to control the risks, ensuring ACMs are monitored, maintained, or safely removed if necessary.
   

4. Communicate and train: Ensure employees, contractors, and maintenance staff are aware of the risks and know how to work safely around asbestos.

Practical Advice from HSE Experts

During the podcast, HSE experts Tim Beaumont and Samantha Lord shared practical advice for duty holders:

• Check existing records: Look for previous asbestos surveys, building plans, or removal records. If no information is available, presume asbestos is present and conduct a survey.
  

• Use HSE’s free resources: The HSE website offers a free asbestos management plan template, an asbestos register template, and explanatory videos to guide you through the process.
  

• Review and update your plan annually: Asbestos management is an ongoing process. Regularly review your plan to account for changes in building use, personnel, or new risks.

Case Study: Marks & Spencer’s Asbestos Management

Craig Barker, Group Property, Fire Health and Safety, and Asbestos Manager at Marks & Spencer (M&S), shared how the company manages asbestos across its extensive estate. Key takeaways include:

• Robust processes: M&S has established clear procedures for identifying, managing, and removing asbestos, supported by a dedicated asbestos management team.

• Training and communication: All contractors and employees undergo asbestos awareness training, with additional eLearning modules tailored to M&S’s specific processes.

• Emergency response: M&S has a 24/7 emergency response system, ensuring swift action in the event of asbestos-related incidents.
  

Tips for Small Businesses

For smaller businesses, managing asbestos may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Start by:

• Identifying the age of your building: If built before 2000, assume asbestos may be present.

• Conducting a survey: Hire a professional to assess your property and create an asbestos register.

• Using HSE’s templates: Simplify the process with HSE’s free resources, including a management plan template.
  

Remember, asbestos management is about prevention, not panic. If ACMs are in good condition and undisturbed, they pose little risk. The goal is to ensure they remain safe and controlled.

Take Action Today

The HSE’s Asbestos – Your Duty campaign is an invaluable resource for duty holders. Visit their website to access free templates, videos, and guidance:

👉 https://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/duty/

For more information on how JSL Asbestos Solutions can support your asbestos management needs, contact us today. Let’s work together to protect your employees, customers, and building occupants from the dangers of asbestos.