Lucion Services is extending its Gateshead operations after securing a further property next to its existing laboratory, in a move that will boost its capacity to undertake asbestos testing for customers using powerful scanning electron microscopy technology (SEM).

 

SEM can more effectively measure the amount of airborne fibre than other techniques, which enables experts to assess the risk and provide recommendations for the safe handling and, if necessary, removal of asbestos materials.

The move will also see a significant expansion of the facility’s capabilities in the coming months to accommodate new equipment and technical support services as the firm gears- up for further growth.

The expansion of SEM services will be supported by the recruitment and training of two more analysts to ensure the expertise will be in place to meet demand.

Lucion is seeing a strong demand for its expertise from the education sector, where asbestos containing materials are present in thousands of old school buildings.
The firm is planning to strengthen its position as a leader in environmental risk management services alongside the testing of soil and industrial land for asbestos contamination.

Services will also be boosted by the appointment of an additional 15 specialists, taking the number of people working in the technical support team, which includes a small plan drawing operation in Lithuania, to over 65 skilled operatives.

The national asbestos market for surveying and air testing work is worth more than £240 million nationally — a figure that is expected to increase in line with demand for industry expertise and specialised advice.

Currently employing more than 300 people and with a turnover of £27m, Lucion operates a national network of 11 offices providing services to the UK and overseas.

Charles Pickles, chief technical officer, said the business was busier than ever, with increasing interest in its SEM services. He added:

“There is huge potential for the services we offer and we are investing now in the expertise, resources and specialist training to take us forward as the business expands over the next 12 months.

“A larger technical team, more laboratory capacity and the use of high tech testing equipment, sees us well placed to develop further our presence as market leaders and secure the needs of our customers.”

Lucion Services brings together a group of multidisciplinary risk management companies to help clients achieve full compliance with occupational and environmental safety regulations.

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