The Scale of Asbestos in Uk Buildings 

Estimates of the number of buildings in the UK containing asbestos vary. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has estimated that between 210,000 and 400,000 buildings contain asbestos. Other sources suggest that over 1.5 million buildings, including homes, offices, schools, and hospitals, may still house asbestos-containing materials. Additionally, it’s estimated that approximately 75% of UK schools contain asbestos. These figures underscore the ongoing need for diligent asbestos management and regular surveys to ensure safety and compliance. 

The Importance of Asbestos Surveys 

For property owners and duty holders, the first step in managing asbestos is understanding where it exists. Asbestos surveys are a legal requirement for many buildings, particularly those constructed before 2000. Firntec provides comprehensive asbestos surveys to help businesses and property managers identify, assess, and manage asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) effectively. These surveys ensure compliance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, helping duty holders fulfil their legal obligations while prioritising safety.

Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management 

The legal framework surrounding asbestos management continues to evolve, with stricter enforcement ensuring that property owners take their responsibilities seriously. Failure to comply with asbestos regulations can result in severe penalties, reputational damage, and, most importantly, risks to health and safety. Regular asbestos surveys, alongside effective management plans, are crucial for mitigating these risks, ensuring that ACMs are safely managed or removed when necessary. 

Consequences for Property Owners Failing to Manage Asbestos

Property owners in the UK who fail to manage asbestos correctly face significant fines and legal consequences. For instance, in 2023, Thistlemoor Healthcare and Management was fined £15,000 for not managing asbestos risks in a commercial building, including failing to maintain an up-to-date asbestos register. In 2019, a Manchester businessman was sentenced to six months in prison, suspended for two years, and fined £10,000 for failing to check for asbestos presence before refurbishing his property. Other cases, such as a property owner in Newquay who was fined £5,000 for not properly managing asbestos during renovations, highlight the serious financial and legal risks property owners face. These examples emphasise the critical importance of proactive asbestos management to avoid costly penalties and ensure the safety of building occupants. 

A Continuing Challenge for the Built Environment 

With many commercial and residential buildings still containing asbestos, the need for ongoing management is clear. Renovations, refurbishments, and demolitions all pose risks of asbestos disturbance, making professional surveys and risk assessments indispensable. Firntec’s expertise in asbestos surveys ensures that duty holders receive accurate assessments, enabling them to take informed action to protect building occupants and workers.