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Naturally occurring. Resistant to heat, electricity and corrosion. Versatile. Cheap and readily available. We thought we had found the miracle cure...until we didn’t. Ever since legislation banning the use of asbestos in the UK was introduced in 1985, the material seems like a thing of the past. However, despite being banned for decades, our predecessors in the 19th and early 20th centuries loved this hidden hazard so much that many properties across England, including Sussex and the South East still contain it. Here are some common — and uncommon — places that asbestos can be hiding, and what to do if you suspect exposure.

Learn how to prevent Legionella in school water systems during summer break with expert tips and tailored compliance support from Summit Environmental.

While children rejoice and parents recoil at the thought of the long-awaited half-term at home, Summit Environmental spent the holidays at school – and it's not because we’ve misbehaved. The holidays serve as a crucial time for risk management experts to complete critical fire compartmentation inspections and risk assessments. So, what work did we do in schools this half term?

A professional and compliant annual inspection guide for block managers, covering essential health and safety responsibilities across fire safety, asbestos, Legionella and hazardous materials.

Clients of Summit Environmental, both within our home county of Sussex and across the UK, will be used to seeing our front-line workers aiding in a whole host of risk management services, be they sending off a suspected anthrax sample, excavating an asbestos-riddled wall, or sussing out a hidden deleterious material. However, what clients don't see is the hard work that goes on behind the scenes to keep operations running smoothly. Which is why it is such a pleasure to introduce the newest member of our invaluable project administration team: Lobke Braspennincx.

The trial into alleged breaches of fire safety regulations by four companies in Cheshire in connection with a fire that destroyed a retirement village collapsed last month. While the six companies involved all had formal ‘not guilty’ verdicts recorded against them, the trial – and the accompanying headlines – are a salient reminder that proactive, professional and effective fire risk management not only protects lives, but also reputations.

A £600,000 fine issued to a company after it failed to manage the risk of legionella bacteria in the hot and cold-water systems at HMP Lincoln, leading to the death of an inmate, is a salient reminder of the need for facilities and property managers to ensure effective management of this potentially serious health risk.

Managing asbestos in educational settings effectively is essential to ensure the safety of pupils, staff, parents and contractors. With the May half term and the long summer holidays beckoning, now is the time to review and refine your asbestos management plan to ensure the safety of all stakeholders at your school, university, college or preschool.

Investing in training is an investment in safety, efficiency, and compliance. Explore our full range of courses and take the next step toward a safer and more knowledgeable workplace.

Regular assessments, proactive maintenance, and staff awareness are essential components of an effective legionella control strategy.

Research shows that on average a UK-based SME will spend between £44,214 to £62,700 on compliance, whereas a small business, will spend around £6,687.

Asbestos use in buildings has been prohibited since 1999. Nonetheless, it is still present in many buildings. Because of this, it is essential to have an asbestos survey done before relocating. Additionally, you should routinely check any places that do contain asbestos to make sure they haven't been disturbed.

Health and safety in schools is critical, especially with most schools being built prior to the asbestos ban in 1999. Therefore it is critical to stay up to date with your asbestos checks and the easter holidays is a great time to do so whilst kids are away.

Fire doors are crucial in protecting people from fires, adding up to 60 minutes of protection. However, if they are not maintained and assessed then they may stop being effective.

The health and safety landscape is poised for significant transformation in 2025, with a series of critical regulatory updates on the horizon. Staying informed and proactive about these incoming changes isn't just recommended—it's essential for organisational compliance and workplace protection.

In November, Mark Elwell, our Managing Director, attended Business Insiders’ Roundtable, where he was joined by several “powerhouses” from the industry.

When we think of health and safety measures, we often think of fire, electrical or trip hazards.

It’s been a year of exponential growth for Summit Environmental, as we have taken on new clients and staff, moved into new offices and invested into new systems and processes, giving us the strong foundations we need to continue our growth into 2025.

The recent case involving the Sanctuary Housing Association serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of inadequate Legionella management.

As a block manager, it is your responsibility to protect the residents of your building from fire risks, including ensuring that fire doors are working.

Legionella is a bacterium that can cause a deadly illness if allowed to thrive in water systems.

If you are an employer, or someone who’s responsible for a premises, such as a landlord or a block manager, it is important you understand the health risks of legionella and know how to control them, to ensure the safety of yourself and anyone else using the premises.

This month is fire prevention month, and as we’re all about fire safety, we thought we would share what those responsible for buildings can and should be doing to reduce the risk of fire and keep people safe.

As a result of recent changes to the law, under the Building Safety Act, fire doors in multi-occupied residential buildings in England over 11 metres tall must be inspected regularly: flat entrance doors should be checked annually, communal doors need to be checked quarterly, while best practise for other buildings is bi-annual inspections.

Experienced asbestos consultant, Ryan Chatfield recently joined Summit to oversee asbestos surveys, ensuring that our procedures are followed to the highest standards, whilst staying compliant with all current legislation.

We recently welcomed a student to Summit Environmental for a week’s work experience. During his time with us, Ashton was taught about fire risk assessments, fire door inspections and researched what makes us stand out from our competition.

While it may feel like a chore sometimes, having effective, well-maintained fire doors can without doubt save lives. We explain how fire doors really do stop fires spreading.

While asbestos can be a potentially fatal substance, it is not always something to worry about.

It’s a legal requirement for fire doors to be inspected, but how often depends on the type of building and its use.

At Summit Environmental, our ethos is “we do it right because it matters,” and each fire door risk assessment, asbestos survey, and everything in between is always undertaken vigilantly, to the highest standards, and with the safety of the public as our top priority.

In this insight we detail the different types of fire doors, what buildings they are required in, and what you must do to ensure you are compliant with regulations.

We are pleased to announce we have won the contract to work with Eastbourne Borough Council and Lewes District Council to inspect fire doors and conduct fire risk assessments across the two towns and their surrounding areas.

At Summit Environmental every month is Building Safety Month, as our work is all about ensuring buildings meet the required safety standards.

While, for many, the school holidays are a chance to relax, spend time with the family and friends, and maybe even go away on holiday, for us at Summit Environmental, the school holidays mark our busiest period.

It is widely accepted that retrofitting our existing buildings is absolutely critical if we are to achieve Net Zero. Our homes use 35% of the UK’s energy and emit 20% of our carbon dioxide emissions. Read more on our what to consider when retrofitting properties.

How will renewable energy effect my EPC rating at home in the UK?

Asbestos in wallpaper, how likely is it and what should we be aware of?

When is an asbestos survey required and which asbestos survey do I need?

As a landlord, manager, business owner, employer, or homeowner, you should ensure that nobody on your premises should ever have to undergo such a terrifying experience, however if the worst does happen our advice below and help with preparation can help.

How to implement a suitable strategy and stay compliant In the event of a fire, fast and safe evacuation on the premises is key. Smoke and fire disseminate fast, and can see people get trapped in dangerous or inescapable areas if there’s no evacuation strategy in place.

Looking for a new opportunity? We have recently landed a number of contracts and we are looking to expand our team. Do you want to join a proactive and rapidly growing company, contact us on info@sumitenvironmental.co.uk

Roof coverings such as felt and sarking - can you find asbestos? Is it dangerous, other bituminous materials that might contain asbestos and we we can do to help.

Asbestos in Artex can detract the value of your home. It's frequently associated with asbestos, which can be hazardous if inhaled. Removing your artex can help to make your home more attractive to potential buyers although the cost can be expensive. Can you skim over artex?

You may already have a good understanding of the types of changes you may need to make to your property to make it more energy efficient, however what if you do not? why not read on.

Fire regulations governing holiday lets are more becoming more stringent. The guidance comes into effect on October 1, 2023. If you operate small let accommodation, you should review our guidance and make sure that your premises are compliant.

We explore what RAAC is, why it can be dangerous, and how we can identify it.

We are delighted to announce that we are now Silver Membership Accredited with Constructionline.

We are proud to announce that we have renewed our accreditation with CHAS!

The first step towards ensuring your property is safe from Legionnaire’s disease is to identify and assess the risk of Legionella.

Will a house built in 2000 have asbestos and what should i do? Despite HSE guidelines stating that no asbestos should be contained within commercial and non-domestic buildings constructed after the year 2000, studies and asbestos surveys conducted have shown that the risk can still potentially be present.

Our detailed reports will outline the existing condition and adequacy of the fire door sets, and where necessary, recommend improvements that should be undertaken to make your buildings compliant with statutory requirements and best practice guidance, or to meet a specific business resilience objective.

A fire safety log book enables business and premises owners to record and maintain fire safety procedures and equipment required by legislation. Order yours from us....

Protecting your people and premises from the risk of fire is a legal requirement. As an owner or occupier, responsibility for prevention, suppression and evacuation lies with you, so it’s vital that all staff and residents are educated in the things they can do to help reduce the dangers of fire.

Our experienced team provide specialist fire risk assessments across London, Sussex, Surrey and Kent.

Looking for a new opportunity? We have a number of roles available. Contact us. info@summitenvironmental.co.uk

Why have an asbestos survey when buying or selling a flat? It’s a question we get asked a lot.

Director Mark Elwell is Running the Brighton Marathon 2023 for the Children's Respite Trust

If you are an employer, landlord or business owner or responsibility for the health and safety of others, you will need to carry out a legionella risk assessment of the water systems that fall under your control.

Not only can renewables provide clean and cheap energy but they can also greatly improve a property’s EPC rating.

Stramit Strawboard is manufactured from straw such as wheat or rice by a patented process of heat and pressure that fuses the straw using its internal resins, making it a completely natural product.

CDM: sensibly plan the work so the risks involved are managed from start to finish.

Fire safety and impairment - Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEP's)

Do you need a replacement EPC when regearing a lease in a residential premises?

Yes, Spray foam can devalue properties and be a risk to your property...what you need to know.

How much do fire door inspection surveys or FDIS cost?

The drive to improve the energy efficiency of properties in the UK looks likely to impact landlords in 2025

Why have an asbestos survey when buying or selling a house? It’s a question we get asked a lot.

It’s just a few months until the new legislation around fire door inspections comes into effect.

An energy performance certificate (EPC) is legally required if you are selling, renting or undertaking construction on a commercial property in the UK.

An asbestos management plan is either a hand written or a typed document that details exactly who is responsible for managing asbestos in a commercial or public building.

It’s important that you get an asbestos management survey to ensure you comply with the Control of Asbestos Regulations (2012)

A Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) is a legal requirement

We are a consultancy specialising in surveys for hazardous materials and assessments

Vermiculite is a mica-like mineral mined around the world and used in a variety of commercial and consumer products

The Domestic RHI scheme closes at midnight on 31 March 2022.

An EPC is valid for ten years

The following are updates on recent prosecutions relating to the state of the asbestos industry in 2022.

Asbestos surveys are required if you are occupying, buying, selling, or demolishing such a building.

Bird droppings pose a particular health hazard when it comes to demolition and refurbishment of buildings.

Wholesale gas prices have soared throughout 2021 leading to more than 20 domestic suppliers biting the dust

The government has recently proposed new EPC regulations that will change the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards

Who are Summit Environmental?

Lead is a metal that is found in the environment and was used in many consumer products.

A fire risk assessment is a review undertaken of a building to assess its fire risk and to offer recommendations to make the building safer if needed.

Fire risk assessments and health and safety in blocks of flats are very much on the radar following the tragic events at Grenfell Tower

Insulating your home doesn’t just make it more energy efficient, it is also one of the best things you can do to reduce your energy bills

TrustMark is the UK’s only Government Endorsed Quality Scheme

Should you be considering selling a commercial property at some point in the future, you should have an asbestos survey conducted.

Summit Environmental are accredited by TrustMark for our Retrofit assessments.

Who is responsible for managing asbestos in a commercial property?

Read some of our frequently asked questions on EPC's

Frequently asked questions about Anthrax

Learn about our recently launches training courses

Learn about EPC, what it is and why it's used.

Learn about EWS1 forms

We thought we would start with a brief review of our year.

In this guide we discuss everything you need to know about asbestos testing kits

Asbestos survey types

A deep dive into Asbestos Surveys

The EWS1 Certificate is an assessment about the safety of different types of cladding wall systems