Are you the managing agent, tenant or landlord of a commercial building? You may have responsibilities when it comes to the safe management of asbestos at your property. It’s vital that anyone in or near the building is safe from the risks of ACMs (asbestos-containing materials), so having a management plan in place is non-negotiable.
There are lots of aspects to consider when managing commercial asbestos, so here’s an insight into what to expect.
How to manage commercial asbestos
If you’re a tenant or landlord, always check the terms of your lease or contract to see who’s responsible for managing asbestos at your property. Otherwise, it’s often the person or organisation responsible for the property’s maintenance who needs to manage commercial asbestos at the building.
There is a legal duty to protect others from asbestos-related diseases. The most important thing is to find out where the asbestos is, have materials professionally analysed, carry out property health and safety assessments (to identify exposure risks) and keep a record of any findings. An asbestos management plan can then be made, which can also be shared with any contractors who work within your building.
Failure to correctly and safely manage commercial asbestos in accordance with government regulations could result in a hefty fine or even imprisonment if the law is breached.
What is an asbestos management survey?
An asbestos management survey is a good place to start, identifying any ACMs, including the location, type, quality and condition they’re in. There should always be an assumption that asbestos is present if it can’t be proved otherwise.
Even after an asbestos management plan has been made, an annual survey should be carried out to see if there are any changes. This is even required if you own or manage a derelict or vacant property.
You may also need an asbestos demolition survey if a strip out, refurbishment or demolition is to take place, helping contractors to carry out the work as safely as possible.
Should you remove asbestos from a commercial building?
In many cases, asbestos identified and assessed as in good condition can be left in situ as long as it’s not disturbed and a clear plan is made to manage any risks. Commercial asbestos removals are often required if there is a change to its condition, the ACM can’t be sealed or you’re planning refurbishments.
Before any work begins, the ACMs should be reassessed by an experienced asbestos contractor. They can also work with you to ensure a safe removal takes place, covering everything from offices and outbuildings to industrial units and farm buildings.
Need a commercial asbestos contractor? Get in touch
Goodbye Asbestos offers commercial asbestos surveys and removals in London, Surrey and the Home Counties. So, whether you need our services in Chelsea, Chertsey or further afield, we can help.
For more information or to request a free quote, contact us now.
