Why Cutting Costs on Asbestos Management Can Be a False Economy

In today's competitive business environment, it's natural for organisations to look for ways to cut costs and improve their bottom line. However, when it comes to asbestos management, cutting corners can lead to serious consequences for both human health and financial stability. In this comprehensive article, we will explore why investing in proper asbestos management is crucial, and how partnering with industry-leading asbestos management consultancy, Consulo Compliance, can help you avoid the pitfalls of a false economy.

Introduction to Asbestos Management

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building and construction materials until its dangers were discovered. Due to its heat resistance and insulation properties, asbestos was a popular choice for insulation, roofing, and flooring materials. However, when damaged or disturbed, asbestos fibers can become airborne, posing a significant risk to human health when inhaled. Long-term exposure to asbestos can lead to serious illnesses, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

Given the risks associated with asbestos, it is essential for property owners and managers to invest in proper asbestos management. This includes conducting an asbestos survey, preparing an asbestos management plan, and scheduling annual asbestos re-inspection to ensure the safety of occupants and compliance with asbestos regulations.

The Risks of Neglecting Asbestos Management

Health Risks

Asbestos-related diseases are responsible for thousands of deaths each year. According to recent statistics, more than 5,000 asbestos-related deaths were recorded in Great Britain in 2020, including over 2,500 deaths from mesothelioma and a similar number of deaths due to lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure.

Neglecting asbestos management not only puts the health of building occupants at risk, but also increases the liability for property owners and managers. Ensuring proper management of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) is not only a moral obligation but also a legal requirement.

Financial Risks

Failure to comply with asbestos regulations can result in significant financial penalties. Fines for non-compliance can be as high as £20,000, while imprisonment for up to 12 months is also a possibility. In more severe cases, unlimited fines and imprisonment for up to two years can be imposed.

The costs of legal fees, compensation claims, and remediation work can far exceed the initial investment in proper asbestos management.

By partnering with Consulo Compliance for your asbestos management needs, you can prevent these costly outcomes and ensure the safety of your property and its occupants.

Importance of Asbestos Surveys

An asbestos survey is a crucial first step in the asbestos management process. It involves a thorough inspection of a property to identify the presence, location, and condition of any ACMs. There are two main types of asbestos surveys:

1.  Management Survey: This is the standard survey required for all non-domestic properties built before 2000. It involves a non-intrusive inspection of the building to identify ACMs that may be disturbed during normal occupancy and maintenance activities.

2.  Refurbishment and Demolition Survey: This survey is required before any refurbishment, renovation, or demolition work is carried out on a property. It involves a more intrusive inspection to identify all ACMs that may be disturbed during the planned work.

By conducting an asbestos survey, property owners and managers can better understand the risks associated with their property and take appropriate action to manage those risks.

Developing an Asbestos Management Plan

An asbestos management plan is a critical document that outlines how ACMs will be managed to protect the health and safety of building occupants. It should include the following information:

• The roles and responsibilities of those involved in asbestos management
• The results of the asbestos survey, including an asbestos register detailing the location and condition of ACMs
• A schedule for monitoring the condition of ACMs
• Procedures for dealing with accidental disturbances of ACMs
• Training and awareness programs for building occupants and maintenance personnel
• A plan for annual asbestos re-inspection

By developing a thorough asbestos management plan, property owners and managers can ensure that they are taking the necessary steps to mitigate the risks associated with asbestos exposure and comply with relevant regulations.

The Role of Annual Asbestos Re-inspection

Regular monitoring of ACMs is a vital part of a comprehensive asbestos management plan. An annual asbestos re-inspection involves a review of the asbestos register and a physical inspection of the ACMs to assess any changes in their condition. This process helps to identify any deterioration or damage to the ACMs that may pose an increased risk of exposure.

By scheduling annual asbestos reinspection, property owners and managers can ensure that their asbestos management plan remains up-to-date and effective in protecting the health and safety of building occupants.

Partnering with Consulo Compliance for Asbestos Management

As the industry-leading asbestos management consultancy, Consulo Compliance offers a range of services to help property owners and managers navigate the complexities of asbestos management. By partnering with Consulo Compliance, you can benefit from:

• Expert guidance and advice from accredited asbestos consultants
• Comprehensive asbestos survey services, tailored to your property's specific requirements
• Assistance in developing an effective asbestos management plan
• Scheduling and conducting annual asbestos re-inspection

In addition to these core services, Consulo Compliance also offers asbestos awareness training and remediation project management to help you achieve and maintain compliance with asbestos regulations.

Investing in Asbestos Management: A Wise Decision

While it may be tempting to cut costs on asbestos management, doing so can result in significant health risks and financial consequences. Investing in proper asbestos management with the help of Consulo Compliance will not only ensure the safety of your property and its occupants but also protect your bottom line from the potential costs associated with non-compliance.

By taking a proactive approach to asbestos management, you can avoid the false economy of cutting corners and safeguard the health and well-being of those who live and work in your property.

In Conclusion

Asbestos management is an essential component of responsible property ownership and management. By investing in professional asbestos survey, developing an asbestos management plan, and scheduling annual asbestos reinspection, property owners and managers can ensure compliance with regulations and protect the health and safety of building occupants.

With industry-leading expertise and a comprehensive suite of services, Consulo Compliance is the ideal partner for all your asbestos management needs. By working with Consulo Compliance, you can avoid the pitfalls of cutting corners, prevent costly fines and compensation claims, and maintain a safe and healthy environment for all.

Contact us today to learn more about our asbestos management services and receive a FREE asbestos compliance audit to see where you need to improve.