Asbestos Regulations
At East Riding Laboratories, we understand the critical importance of staying updated with regulations when it comes to asbestos. This page aims to provide you with links to the latest information on asbestos regulations in the United Kingdom. Whether you’re a homeowner, contractor, or business owner, staying compliant with these regulations is essential to ensure your safety and that of workers, tenants and the general public.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once widely used in various construction materials due to its tensile strength, resistance to heat and chemicals, and insulating properties. However, exposure to asbestos fibres can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. As a result, the use of asbestos has been heavily regulated in the UK and the majority of work involving asbestos is governed by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and must be carried out under licence.
- Asbestos – HSE
- Managing and working with asbestos. Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. Approved Code of Practice and guidance (hse.gov.uk)
UK Asbestos Regulations: Overview
- Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012): CAR 2012 is the primary legislation governing the management and control of asbestos in the UK. It places duties on employers, building owners, and those responsible for the maintenance of non-domestic premises to manage the risks associated with asbestos.
- Duty to Manage Asbestos: Under CAR 2012, those responsible for the maintenance and repair of non-domestic premises have a legal duty to manage the risks posed by asbestos. This includes conducting surveys to identify asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), assessing the risk of exposure, and implementing appropriate control measures.
- Asbestos Surveys: Before any refurbishment or demolition work takes place, a thorough asbestos survey must be conducted by a competent surveyor. The survey will identify the location, type, and condition of any ACMs present in the building.
- Asbestos Management Plan: Based on the findings of the asbestos survey, an asbestos management plan must be developed and implemented. This plan should outline how the risks associated with asbestos will be managed, including procedures for handling, removal, and disposal of ACMs.
- Asbestos Removal: In some cases, it may be necessary to remove asbestos-containing materials to prevent exposure. Only licensed asbestos removal contractors should undertake this work, and they must follow strict procedures to ensure the safe removal and disposal of ACMs.
- Training and Awareness: Employers have a legal obligation to ensure that employees who may come into contact with asbestos are adequately trained and aware of the risks. This includes providing information and instruction on how to work safely around asbestos-containing materials.
Contact Us
For more information on how we can assist you with your asbestos management requirements, please don’t hesitate to get in touch using our contact form, or by calling us on 01482 221651.
