Asbestos, once widely used due to its versatility, is found in over 3,200 products, posing risks in both domestic and, more frequently, non-domestic buildings. This article explores common materials containing asbestos, high-risk activities that may disturb it, local regulations, and best practices for safe management.
In commercial properties, asbestos can be found in various materials such as ceiling tiles, wall boards, firebreaks, vinyl flooring, insulation, and gaskets. Industrial sites often feature asbestos cement roofs, boards, and insulation, particularly in areas requiring enhanced fireproofing and soundproofing.
Asbestos can be disturbed in various ways, from routine activities within a building to maintenance and, most significantly, during refurbishment or demolition work. Any action that causes Asbestos materials to release fibers into the air should be considered a potential hazard.
Asbestos management in commercial real estate is crucial for ensuring the safety of occupants and compliance with legal regulations. Below are some best practices that can help property managers and building owners effectively address asbestos concerns:
1. Conduct Regular Asbestos Surveys
Ensure that certified professionals carry out regular asbestos surveys and re-inspections, especially in older buildings. Early detection helps prevent exposure and potential legal issues. When determining the need for a survey, consider the building's age and the local asbestos prohibition date, but note that asbestos may still be present in newer constructions, particularly in regions where enforcement is lax. A risk assessment should factor in these variables to prioritize inspections and management.
In many countries now including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, and the United Arab Emirates (Abu Dhabi) it is a legal requirement for non-domestic properties to have an Asbestos risk assessment and survey completed. These countries enforce strict regulations to protect public health and worker safety.
2. Create an Asbestos Management Plan (AMP)
Once an asbestos survey has been completed, this can be used to help develop and implement a comprehensive asbestos management plan (AMP). This plan should document all Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACMs) in the building and outline strategies for monitoring, repairing, or removing them when necessary. The AMP should outline the relevant legal framework, roles and responsibilities, an Asbestos action plan and fully detail how Asbestos will be managed at the site.
3. Hire Licensed Asbestos Removal Experts
In the event that the risk assessment has determined that Asbestos removal is required, licensed Asbestos removal experts should be engaged. Asbestos removal is a highly specialized task that should only be undertaken by certified professionals. Hiring licensed contractors ensures that the removal is compliant with local regulations and safe for building occupants. When seeking out Asbestos removal services ensure that the company and their operatives are certified Asbestos removal experts.
4. Educate and Train Staff
Ensure that all staff and building occupants, especially maintenance teams, are trained on the potential risks of asbestos and the proper procedures for dealing with ACMs. Regular training sessions can help prevent accidental disturbances of ACMs.
5. Keep Up with Legal Compliance
Stay updated on local asbestos regulations and ensure all documentation, surveys, and asbestos management activities comply with the latest standards. Failing to adhere to legal requirements can result in hefty fines and put tenants at risk.
6. Conduct Safe Renovations
Before any renovations or demolition activities, ensure a thorough asbestos survey is conducted. Identifying asbestos prior to construction work is essential to prevent accidental exposure to airborne fibers.
7. Maintain Clear Communication
Keep tenants informed about any asbestos-related activities, including surveys and removals, to maintain transparency. Providing clear guidelines on safety measures can help reduce tenant concerns.
Conclusion
Proper asbestos management is essential in commercial real estate. By adhering to these best practices, property owners can protect their tenants, ensure legal compliance, and reduce the risk of asbestos exposure.
If you have any Asbestos related concerns, contact us to see how Anthesis Consulting Middle East can help you:
Charles Faulkner (Head of Environment, Health and Safety, and Asbestos Team Leader)
Phone: +971 (0) 50 5541 320
Email: asbestos@anthesisgroup.com