Clarke Willmott are warning firms that the proposals brought about in the consultation may see tighter restrictions and risks of liability
The asbestos regulation consultation is being launched by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and aims to gather views on its proposed changes.
Changes would be to the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and its applications and guidance.
There are three proposals
The views will be sought on improving independence in the 4-stage clearance process, raising the standard of asbestos surveys, and bringing clarity to asbestos management for protecting workers and building inhabitants.
HSE estimates that every year, around 5,000 people die from diseases linked to asbestos exposure.
Bridget Sanger, of Clarke Willmott, said: “While these proposals are not yet law, they indicate that compliance expectations may rise in the future.
“Businesses should take this consultation seriously and consider how the changes could affect their operations. It’s also a chance to think about practical challenges, influence guidance, and ensure that asbestos management processes are robust.
“Dutyholders should review their asbestos management procedures, ensuring that surveys are up to date, clearance processes are independent and staff understand their responsibilities.
“It’s also important to clarify what counts as notifiable non-licensed work to avoid mistakes. Acting now can reduce the risk of fines, prosecution, or reputational damage, while ensuring a commitment to keeping people safe.”
Asbestos is still a major concern
Last month, High Speed Training released its own research detailing the extent of the danger posed by asbestos to construction workers and their families, despite being banned 25 years ago.
Their research found that a good number of employers do not treat the material with the seriousness required, as 26% of tradespeople encountering asbestos did not follow safe removal guidelines, and another 26% said their employers told them to ignore the safe removal process.
Furthermore, 35% of tradespeople surveyed did not think asbestos is hazardous, and 36% viewed it as a problem of the past.
Dr Richard Anderson, head of learning and development at High Speed Training, said: “Whilst asbestos has been banned in the UK since 1999, it is still present in many buildings in the UK – with some reports3 stating it’s present in 1.5 million – and it can take as long as 30 years or more for symptoms of related diseases to appear, which really indicates the need for better awareness for tradespeople, their families, and the general public.
“Asbestos removal regulations are in place to make sure that the risk of exposure to harmful fibres is limited, and it’s imperative that guidelines are followed by a trained professional. It is never something that you should attempt to do yourself, whether you are a tradesperson or a member of the general public. There can be serious risks to your health if asbestos is disturbed and fibres are released into the air.”
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