Around 12,000 lung disease deaths in the UK are linked to exposure to chemicals at work, 20% of which is asbestos-related lung cancer. This is caused by the inhalation of the asbestos fibres which affect the wall lining of the lung. It is because of the enormous risk of being in contact with this material that it has been illegal to use asbestos in buildings since 1999. However, there are still between 210,000 and 400,000 buildings that contain asbestos. This is why it is imperative to get an asbestos survey conducted before moving into a building built before 1999, as well as regularly oversee any areas that do contain asbestos to ensure it has not been disturbed.
What this means for block managers
As a block manager, you are legally responsible for upholding a duty of care to residents, tenants and workers under the Control for Asbestos Regulations 2012. Not only would mismanagement put people at risk of becoming ill, but you also face fines or up to two years in prison.
How to identify asbestos in your building
Identifying asbestos in a building requires a careful and systematic approach, as improper handling can release harmful fibres. There are areas where asbestos is most likely found:
· Insulation: Around pipes, boilers, and ducts
· Flooring: Vinyl tiles, adhesives, and underlays
· Ceilings: Textured coatings like Artex or acoustic ceiling tiles
· Roofing: Cement roofing sheets, shingles, and guttering
· Walls: Insulating panels, plaster, and fire-resistant boards
· Other Areas: Fuse boxes, water tanks, and external cladding
However, identifying asbestos by yourself is risky, and it is important to avoid DIY testing as it can disturb the material, something you want to avoid. It is worthwhile getting a professional management company to conduct a survey.
Responding to an asbestos incident
If you find asbestos in your building it is important to evacuate the area and seal it off before notifying a specialist. It is risk management companies like us who will come in and conduct asbestos testing, and if found, we can recommend specialists who can safely remove it.
It can be daunting for residents or tenants to find out that there is asbestos in their building, so it is important to communicate throughout the process, keeping them informed on the remediation efforts.
Once all asbestos has been safely removed it is critical to update your building records and management plans to ensure you comply with changing regulations.
If you want to book in for an asbestos survey, get in contact.
