Asbestos is widely recognised as a dangerous substance. Despite the risks having been documented for decades, approximately 5,000 people die each year as a result of exposure to asbestos. Without the professional advice of an asbestos specialist, it’s easy to overlook the risks, putting residents or employees at risk of developing serious, and often fatal, lung disease.
Working With Asbestos Specialists: Why You Should Never Go At It Alone
There are numerous reasons why asbestos management, assessment, and removal should be left to experienced professionals:
1) Asbestos Specialists Have Extensive Knowledge
There are many aspects of effective asbestos management. From inspection and risk assessments to management and safe removal, a specialist will have the knowledge, tools, and experience to ensure the asbestos in your property is properly managed. Specialists will have undertaken extensive training and audits to be licensed and provide their services; asbestos removal experts also have the correct equipment to undertake their work safely.
2) Protect Yourself Against Legal Action
As the named Duty Holder, you should have received specialist training in asbestos management. However, the role still bears considerable responsibility, as any breaches can result in you being held legally liable and prosecuted under Regulation 4 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. This may result in heavy fines or even imprisonment. Working with a specialist will minimise the chance of errors and ensure your asbestos is managed in a safe and compliant way.
3) Reduce The Risk Of Asbestos Exposure
Engaging with a team of professional specialists will drastically reduce risks for yourself and other users of the building. A comprehensive Asbestos Management Plan (AMP) will ensure that all necessary steps are taken to limit exposure and ensure everyone is safeguarded. This is particularly important when Asbestos Containing Materials (ACMs) are suspected, as stringent safety measures will need to be implemented to limit exposure.
4) Establish Trust In Your Procedures
Utilising the knowledge and skills of experts gives you confidence that all necessary measures are being taken to mitigate and reduce the dangers of asbestos. You can be confident that your business is complying with legal requirements, while users can be reassured that their living or working environment is safe.
Find Out More About Effective Ways To Manage Asbestos
Our free downloadable publication, ‘The Asbestos Management Blueprint’, is a short guide on managing asbestos in premises, for businesses and public organisations.
To find out more about your responsibilities and effective ways to manage the risk of asbestos in your building, please download the guide or contact OMC Consultants for more information.
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