Asbestos Risk Assessment (UK)

Asbestos is still the single biggest cause of work related deaths in Britain, decades after it was banned, because it sits hidden in buildings built or refurbished before the year 2000. Any trade that disturbs the fabric of a building must assess the risk first.

Why it still matters

Asbestos was used widely until it was fully banned in 1999. It is harmless when sealed and left alone, but drilling, cutting or breaking it releases fibres that cause fatal lung disease years later. Plumbers, electricians, joiners and demolition workers are among the most at risk.

The duty to manage

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, whoever is responsible for maintaining non domestic premises has a duty to manage the asbestos in them, which means finding out whether it is present, recording it, and sharing that information with anyone who might disturb it.

Before you start work

Before disturbing the fabric of any building built or refurbished before 2000, check the asbestos register or have a survey done. If asbestos is present or suspected, do not disturb it. Licensed contractors are required for the higher risk materials.

What the assessment covers

The assessment records what asbestos containing materials are present or presumed, their condition and location, who could be exposed, and the controls, from avoiding disturbance to using a licensed removal contractor. Any work that could disturb asbestos needs its own specific assessment.

Record it

Record the materials, their condition and the controls. Our risk assessment template gives you the form. Trades most affected should also see our plumber and electrician risk assessment guides.