{"id":8681,"date":"2021-04-16T09:22:44","date_gmt":"2021-04-16T08:22:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hse-network.com\/?p=8681"},"modified":"2024-04-16T15:13:19","modified_gmt":"2024-04-16T14:13:19","slug":"commercial-property-and-asbestos-2024-update","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hse-network.com\/commercial-property-and-asbestos-2024-update\/","title":{"rendered":"Commercial Property and Asbestos [2024 Update]"},"content":{"rendered":"

There was once a time when asbestos, a naturally occurring fibrous mineral, was hailed for its exceptional heat and fire resistance performance. However, over time, it\u2019s become common to now associate asbestos as hugely devastating to human health, and it\u2019s rare to think of it as anything other than a potent hazard. In commercial properties, especially those that are older and <\/span>have been vacant<\/span><\/a> for some time, managing asbestos is anything but a routine, tick-box exercise.<\/span><\/p>\n

Despite a <\/span>nationwide ban<\/span><\/a> on asbestos use in 1999, it nonetheless lingers during talk of property condition and ownership. As such, responsible property owners and managers must address any possible risks – however minor or insignificant they may seem – proactively.<\/span><\/p>\n

This article explores the current state of asbestos in UK commercial properties and the steps that businesses can take to manage and mitigate any potential dangers.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Lingering Threat of Asbestos<\/span><\/h2>\n

While no longer used in domestic or commercial construction, asbestos remains present in many older buildings. Its fibres, when inhaled, can cause severe respiratory illnesses such as <\/span>mesothelioma<\/span><\/a> and lung cancer, to name just a few. Even low-level exposure over time can prove hazardous to human health, further illustrating the importance of diligent asbestos management.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In older commercial buildings (particularly those that are shared), the onus is on duty holders and owners to collectively and proactively ensure the safety of all inhabitants. Where commercial buildings are due to receive – or have undergone – construction or renovation work, a <\/span>party wall surveyor<\/span><\/a> may need to be engaged to oversee adjoining property or boundary line responsibilities. Their involvement will help address legal boundary disputes and they will collaborate with asbestos professionals during any construction, to assist with the compliance of relevant asbestos regulations.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

However, as a duty holder for a commercial property, you bear the legal responsibility for addressing and managing asbestos risks effectively. Failure to comply with regulations can result in substantial fines and, in extreme cases, imprisonment.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Understanding Your Legal Responsibilities<\/span><\/h2>\n

Here are the key obligations you must fulfil:<\/span><\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Duty to manage asbestos<\/b>: The <\/span>Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012<\/span><\/a> places the onus on you to identify, assess, and manage asbestos risks within your premises. <\/span>
    \n<\/span>
    \n<\/span>This includes:<\/span><\/p>\n