Asbestos is a hazardous substance that can result in cancer and other severe health issues. Making sure asbestos removal is done properly and by qualified experts who understand how to manage the dangers is crucial. Sadly, not all businesses take these safety measures seriously, and some are even willing to risk the safety of their employees, clients, and the general public in order to make a quick profit.

A recent £80,000 fine for failing to ensure the safe removal of asbestos was levied against an unlicensed asbestos removal business. Without taking the necessary safeguards, the business, removed asbestos-containing insulating board ceilings from residential buildings. Additionally, they presented customers with fake waste transfer notes, air test certificates, and certificates of asbestos training and insurance documents. Additionally, they breached a prohibition notice on several occasions.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and Stockport Trading Standards conducted a combined investigation that showed Asbestos Boss Limited had completed similar projects all throughout the country. They charged clients to remove asbestos-containing materials without taking the proper safety measures. As a result, there was a very real chance that their staff, clients, and the general public might be exposed to asbestos.

Asbestos Boss Limited's illegal activities have serious repercussions. In one instance, they were paid £3,000 to remove asbestos insulation from 20 service cabinets. Because of the poor quality of their work, the site owners received remedial quotations for making the areas safe from licenced contractors that ranged from £54,000 to £64,000.

The company's director, admitted guilt on all counts and was sentenced to a 10-month prison term and victim restitution. The Company was found responsible for breaking the rules and ordered to pay an £80,000 fine as well as reimburse the victims for the full cost of the service they had already agreed to pay for.

The takeaway from this case is crystal clear: businesses and their directors must treat asbestos removal seriously and make sure that it is carried out by qualified experts in a safe manner. Failure to do so may have serious repercussions for the public as well as the organisation and its employees. The HSE has started a campaign emphasising the risks associated with asbestos and offering advice on the safe working with asbestos. It is essential to follow these guidelines and ensure that all work involving asbestos is carried out safely and by trained professionals.

The HSE recently launched a campaign highlighting the dangers of asbestos and has guidance on the safe working with asbestos.

Asbestos and You