Take the Correct Action

Step 1

The first step for duty holders is to identify any asbestos containing material. Unless it is a modern building with documentary evidence that no asbestos was used in construction, then an asbestos survey will be required.

Step 2

Persons undertaking asbestos surveys and management must be competent. There is no statutory qualification for this, but the industry accepted qualification is British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS) P402 for surveying and P405 for management. All samples are analysed by a UKAS accredited laboratory.

Step 3

The Standard for asbestos surveying, sampling and assessment of asbestos containing materials is published by the HSE in Asbestos: The Survey Guide (HSG264). Express Environmental Solutions work to this standard.

Step 4

An asbestos survey on its own does not discharge the duty. Identified or suspected asbestos must be risk assessed and managed on an ongoing basis. This may or may not include asbestos removal.

Step 5
Asbestos management plans must consider all situations where exposure from the asbestos is likely to occur and all persons likely to be exposed. This especially includes maintenance workers, building contractors, demolition contractors and similar, as well as usual employees at work in the premises.