Construction firm fined after workers exposed to asbestos

A construction company has been fined after workers were exposed to asbestos whilst refurbishing a flat in St John’s Wood, Westminster.

Westminster Magistrates’ Court heard that between 14 May and 31 August 2018, the Principal Contractor for the project, failed to obtain a Refurbishment and Demolition asbestos survey prior to commencing work on site. During the project the construction company was made aware by a subcontractor that there was asbestos containing material (ACM) within the flat, however the company allowed work to continue and failed to ensure that the ACMs were removed safely. As a result, several people were exposed to asbestos fibres over a prolonged period.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that the company failed to take reasonably practicable steps to prevent the people working on site being exposed to asbestos.

As a result, the construction company pleaded guilty to breaching Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. The company was fined £30,000 and ordered to pay costs of £2,837.

Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector Owen Rowley said: “There are currently more than 5,000 asbestos-related deaths each year in the UK. Any asbestos on site should be identified before refurbishment or demolition work takes place and suitable steps must be taken to control the risk of exposure.

“In this case company’s failure to manage the risk of exposure to asbestos was compounded by their lack of response when concerns were raised regarding its presence on site.

“Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action against those that fall below the required standards.”

Get Started with Casa Environmental Services

Our CES team has years of experience in the industry and all the resources needed to ensure you are able to comply with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

The Refurbishment / demolition Survey is required where the premises, or part of it, need upgrading, refurbishment or demolition and aims to ensure that:

nobody will be harmed by work on ACM in the premises or equipment
such work will be done by the right contractor in the right way

It is important that all ACM must be located and identified before any structural work begins at a stated location or on stated equipment at the premises.

For a no-obligation discussion or if you want to make a booking, please call 0117 9322323 or email enquiries@casaenvironmental.co.uk.