Demolition Company prosecuted after ignoring Asbestos Survey reccomendations

Last Updated on 22nd April 2021 by Marketing

A Cheltenham demolition company has been prosecuted after exposing its own workers to dangerous asbestos fibres and illegally removing asbestos waste from a property in Gloucester.

DA Environmental Services Ltd were prosecuted by the Health and Safety (HSE) at Cheltenham Magistrates’ Court on 5th November 2012 for breaching three regulations relating to asbestos removal. The HSE reported that although the firm undertook an asbestos survey before demolishing the building, the asbestos containing material (ACM) identified was not removed by the required type of contractor.

The survey identified a quantity of Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB) and recommended, in line with asbestos regulations, that the material would require safe removal in a controlled manner before demolition went ahead. However, during a six-week period in August and September 2011, the building was demolished and asbestos boarding removed by DA Environmental Services’ employees, exposing them to potentially significant quantities of asbestos fibres released during the work.

Contrary to asbestos regulations, the company did not hold the legally required licence to carry out the asbestos removal and failed to take adequate steps to prevent both exposure to and the spread of asbestos fibres generated by the work. The HSE’s investigation also found the asbestos debris was not disposed of correctly, potentially extending the risk of exposure and spread of danger into the waste chain.

DA Environmental Services Ltd of Maida Vale Business Centre, Leckhampton, Cheltenham, pleaded guilty to breaching Sections 8, 11 and 16 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006. The company was fined a total of £15,000 and ordered to pay costs of £1,452.

Armco has over 15 years experience in the undertaking of asbestos surveys and provides the safe disposal of any identified ACM’s under fully controlled conditions. Please contact the Armco office for a competitive quote and further details on 0161 763 3727.

 

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Published Nov 08, 2012

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