As the Duty Holder, managing your asbestos removal project can be a daunting task. So we’ve put together some top tips for managing the end to end process.

 

What types of asbestos removal are there?

Before commencing any asbestos removal works, you must first assess whether the work is licensable, non-licensable or notifiable non-licensable.

 

Licensable Work

Licensable work with asbestos is higher-risk and can only be conducted by a licensed contractor. Such works include;

• Loose insulation, lagging, sprayed coatings 
• Loose dust & debris (gross contamination)
• Significant work with insulating board

All licensable works must:

• ONLY be carried out by HSE licensed contractor
• Provide 14 day notification period to the HSE 
• And additional requirements

Projects involving less risk (such as sporadic, low intensity and less risk of exposure) may not require a licensed contractor. Your contractor will need the below to perform the works:

 

Non-Licensable

• Insurance
• Plan of Work
• Risk Assessments
• NNLW Training
• Specific NNLW  training for Grounds workers

 

Notifiable Non-licensable works

• Insurance
• Plan of Work
• Risk Assessments
• NNLW training
• Notification (instant)
• ASB NNLW1 form

Please note that asbestos awareness training does not mean your contractor is safe to work with asbestos.

 

What do I need to consider during my asbestos removal project?

Below are  10 things to consider when managing your asbestos removal project covering your asbestos survey type through to clearance.

1. Asbestos Survey type – The basic tool for the removal process
2. Contractual agreement & technical specification – define agreed KPIs
3. Method statements & risk assessments 
4. Licenses & proof of insurance 
5. Analyst/contractor site logs  – what system will you use to monitor activities?
6. ‘Live’ asbestos updated register 
7. Waste transfer notes – you can still be liable for asbestos-containing materials after it leaves your site, ensure you know where your waste is going
8. Chain of communications – communication is king! Setting up the correct lines of communication with your team and contractors can help you save time and money, and acts as a record should things go wrong. 
9. Air Testing and Monitoring
10. 4 Stage Clearance Certificate

 

How long does asbestos removal take?

Asbestos removal is a lengthy process and should be planned for during any refurbishment or demolition project. Failure to plan for asbestos removal prior to the commencement of works can leave your project running behind schedule and at a higher cost.

 

Need help managing your asbestos removal project?

Our asbestos consultants can help you to factor in asbestos management into your project, helping you to manage the process both efficiently and on budget. Our team also provide a project-specific asbestos removal tender specification as part of our asbestos abatement project management service.