Leading risk-management firm Santia is issuing a reminder to all property managers following the recent floods –
In the aftermath of torrential rain and flooding, the clear-up operation is well underway and understandably, businesses and landlords are keen to get back onto a normal footing as soon as possible. However, Santia is warning that before refurbishment is carried out, steps must be taken to ensure that asbestos isn’t disturbed.
The inhalation of asbestos fibres can cause potentially fatal illnesses and is thought to be responsible for around 4,500 deaths every year.
John Evans, Technical Director of Santia’s asbestos management division commented:
“Where flooding has caused property damage or rendered buildings temporarily unusable, there is a financial imperative to get things fixed in the quickest way possible; but before floor tiles, insulating board, lagging or other building materials can be removed, duty holders must be confident that contractors will not be disturbing asbestos – or that suitable preventative measures have been taken.
“If building fabric is to be disturbed, the presence of asbestos should first be ascertained to prevent the release of fibres into the air. Refurbishment and/or demolition surveys should be carried out prior to the commencement of such work so that the locations of asbestos containing materials can be identified.”
John also spoke of the need for contractors to be provided with suitable training to enable them to recognise asbestos and understand the risks:
“A further reminder goes out to all those involved in refurbishment work – asbestos awareness training is a mandatory requirement for all those who may come into contact with Asbestos Containing Materials so that they can recognise them for what they are. For any contractors who could disturb asbestos while carrying out their work, it is imperative that they have the appropriate training to undertake these works, which as a minimum should be training for undertaking Non-Licensed asbestos work. Where work involves high risk material, such as asbestos insulation or asbestos insulating board, it will in most cases be necessary to employ contractors who hold a license to undertake this work, as granted by the Health and Safety Executive. It is those front line workers who are most at risk of exposure and who must therefore be equipped with the knowledge that could ultimately save their lives.”
Santia and First Order Red help clients understand their asbestos management responsibilities and provide them with a tailored range of solutions.
Santia’s Asbestos Awareness online course is designed and written by leading professionals with over 30 years’ experience. The state-of-the-art online platform utilises the latest learning and development media to provide an enjoyable and productive experience.