Make the statement “no asbestos here”
Duty to manage
Although many properties that were constructed before the year 2000 have asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) present, significant numbers don’t. This can be for a number of reasons including: (1) there were no products that contained ACMs used in its construction; or (2) ACMs were used but they have subsequently been removed. Either way, it means that those using the property no longer have to deal with the associated risks.
Fortunate position
If this applies to your premises, you need to ensure that those working in it are made aware. This is where our new asbestos statement can be used. By completing the document, you’ll make it clear to all parties that you’re sure there are no ACMs present.
How is it set out?
The first sections of the document provide space for you to identify that you’re aware of your legal duties to manage asbestos.
Tip. Make sure that you record precise details of the property, or part of the property, that this statement refers to. Avoid abbreviations or terms which may be confusing to staff or others.
How do you know?
The next part of the document includes three statements:
- “As a result of a survey carried out on ………….. (insert date) it has been confirmed that there are no known asbestos-containing materials within the building structure, fixtures or fittings.
- The building was constructed after the year 2000 and we have no reason to believe that any asbestos-containing materials are present.
- The majority of materials within the structure are identified as ………….. (e.g. wood, metal, breeze block, brick, glass or plaster board). No materials have been reported to us or observed during our inspection which are suspected of containing asbestos fibre.”
Tip. Delete the two sentences that don’t apply to your property. If necessary, amend the remaining statement so it reflects your position.
Just in case
There may still be a possibility that ACMs could be found during building work. Our statement provides a phrase for where a survey has not found asbestos but covers the risk of uncovering the material in future building work.
Note. Any reputable building contractor shouldn’t start work in a premises that was constructed before the year 2000 without identifying whether ACMs are present.
Tip. If you’re employing a building contractor to work on your premises, make it clear to them during your contract negotiations that you don’t believe any ACMs are present and explain your reasoning. Don’t overstate your case. It’s often safer to say “the asbestos survey did not identify any ACMs” than to categorically rule out their presence.
For a free asbestos statement, visit http://healthandsafety.indicator.co.uk (HS 11.05.05).
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