Laws Governing Asbestos Removal in Hampshire

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was extensively used in building materials and insulation in the UK until the 1990s. Although banned in the UK since 1999, asbestos is still present in many older buildings, posing a significant risk to public health. Mesothelioma, a type of cancer, is directly linked to asbestos exposure, and it is estimated that around 5,000 people die each year in the UK as a result of past asbestos exposure.

As a professional asbestos removal company in Hampshire, it is our duty to abide by the relevant statutory instruments, regulations, and health and safety guidelines to protect both our employees and the general public. In this article, we will outline the laws relating to the removal of asbestos in Hampshire.

Statutory Instruments

Statutory Instruments, or SIs, are secondary legislation that allow the UK government to implement EU directives into UK law. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 is the main piece of legislation that governs the management, removal, and disposal of asbestos in the UK. It replaced the 2006 regulations and sets out the legal requirements for the management of asbestos in commercial, industrial, and public buildings.

The regulations apply to any person or organization involved in the management or maintenance of non-domestic premises, including landlords, property management companies, and employers. They also apply to anyone who carries out work that may disturb asbestos-containing materials. Failure to comply with the regulations can result in a fine or even imprisonment.

Information and Training

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, all employers who may come into contact with asbestos-containing materials must receive appropriate training to ensure they can work safely and prevent exposure to asbestos fibers. Employers must also keep a record of this training and regularly review it to ensure they are up-to-date with the latest changes in legislation and health and safety guidelines.

In addition to training, employers must provide information to employees, building occupants, and visitors about the presence of asbestos-containing materials, the risks associated with exposure, and any precautions they should take to prevent exposure. This information can be provided through signage, notices, and written instructions.

National Health and Safety Policy

The UK government's health and safety policy for asbestos removal is based on the principle of preventing and minimizing exposure to asbestos fibers. This policy is outlined in the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which places a duty on employers to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their employees.

The government's national policy is supported by a range of health and safety guidelines and regulations that set out the requirements for the safe removal of asbestos-containing materials. These include the Approved Code of Practice (ACoP) and guidance notes that provide detailed information on how to manage, remove, and dispose of asbestos.

Asbestos Legislation in the UK

Asbestos-related legislation in the UK consists of primary legislation, such as the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, and secondary legislation, such as ACoPs and guidance notes. The core principles of asbestos legislation in the UK are based on the need to prevent exposure to asbestos fibers and minimize the risks associated with asbestos-related diseases.

The UK government also supports a number of initiatives aimed at reducing the number of deaths caused by asbestos exposure, including the Asbestos Priority Risk Assessment (APRA) program, which provides funding for local authorities to survey and assess public buildings for asbestos.

Asbestos Removal in Hampshire

In Hampshire, asbestos removal is governed by the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, and all businesses or organizations that undertake construction or renovation work must comply with these regulations. The regulations require employers to carry out a risk assessment before starting any work that may disturb asbestos-containing materials.

Asbestos removal companies in Hampshire must be licensed by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and follow strict guidelines and procedures to ensure the safe removal and disposal of asbestos. This includes the use of protective equipment, such as respirators, to prevent exposure to asbestos fibers.

Asbestos-Related Diseases

Asbestos-related diseases, such as mesothelioma and asbestosis, can take many years to develop after exposure to asbestos fibers. Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer, is directly linked to asbestos exposure, and it is estimated that around 2,500 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year in the UK.

The symptoms of mesothelioma can take up to 50 years to develop, and there is currently no cure for the disease. Asbestos-related diseases can also cause thickening of the lungs and other respiratory problems, which can significantly impact a person's quality of life.

Conclusion

Asbestos is a dangerous substance that poses a significant risk to public health, and it is essential that it is managed and removed safely to prevent exposure to asbestos fibers. As experts in asbestos removal in Hampshire, we take our responsibilities very seriously and follow all relevant legislation, guidelines, and health and safety measures to ensure the safe removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials.

If you suspect there is asbestos in your premises or require asbestos removal services, please do not hesitate to contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire on 01962 458066 or at [email protected]. Our website, affordable-asbestos-removal-hampshire.co.uk, provides further information on our services and how we can help you.