Asbestos, a once-widely used building material, poses significant health risks. While licensed asbestos removal is required for high-risk work, many smaller, non-licensed tasks can be carried out safely with proper training, insurance, medical surveillance and planning.
This checklist, based on guidance from the HSE's Asbestos Essentials website, outlines the key steps to ensure a safe and compliant asbestos removal process for notifiable, non-licensed work (NNLW).
Disclaimer: This checklist provides general guidance and is not a substitute for proper training or professional advice. Always consult with a qualified asbestos professional if you are unsure about any aspect of asbestos work. This checklist is for Notifiable NLW and Non-Licensed Asbestos Removal works only.
Phase 1: Pre-Work Planning and Preparation
1. Asbestos Survey & Identification:
Mandatory Asbestos Survey: Conduct a comprehensive asbestos survey by a competent surveyor to identify the location, type, and condition of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Never assume a material is asbestos-free.
Material Assessment: Determine if the planned work qualifies as non-licensed work. Refer to HSE guidance for clarification. If in doubt, consult a licensed asbestos removal contractor.
HSE Asbestos Essentials Task Sheet: Identify the relevant task sheet(s) on the HSE's Asbestos Essentials website (https://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/essentials/) that corresponds to the specific task. Print out and review thoroughly.
2. Risk Assessment & Control Measures:
Site-Specific Risk Assessment: Conduct a thorough risk assessment, considering the specific conditions of the work area, potential hazards, and the health risks associated with asbestos exposure.
Control Measures Implementation: Implement appropriate control measures to minimize asbestos fiber release, including:
Dampening: Thoroughly dampen the ACMs before and during work.
Hand Tools: Use hand tools instead of power tools whenever possible.
Enclosure (if necessary): Erect a suitable enclosure around the work area to contain asbestos fibers.
Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent the build-up of asbestos fibers.
Signage: Post warning signs to alert others to the asbestos work in progress.
3. Equipment & PPE Procurement:
Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE): Provide appropriate RPE (e.g., FFP3 mask or half-face respirator with P3 filters) for all workers. Ensure face-fit testing has been carried out.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide disposable coveralls, gloves, and eye protection for all workers.
Designated Waste Bags: Obtain appropriate asbestos waste bags (UN-approved, labeled).
Cleaning Equipment: Prepare a suitable vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, cloths, and cleaning solutions for decontamination.
Tools and Equipment: Gather necessary hand tools, spray bottles, and other equipment.
4. Notification of NNLW (Notifiable Non-Licensed Work):
HSE Notification: As per HSE regulations, notify the relevant authority (HSE) of the planned notifiable non-licensed asbestos work (if applicable). This notification must be submitted before work begins. Check the HSE website for the current notification process and forms.
Record Keeping: Maintain records of the notification.
Phase 2: Work Execution
5. Work Area Preparation:
Isolate the Area: Isolate the work area from the rest of the building to prevent the spread of asbestos fibers.
Protect Surfaces: Cover surfaces with disposable sheeting to facilitate cleaning.
Designated Entry/Exit: Establish a designated entry/exit point for the work area.
6. Asbestos Removal Procedures:
Adherence to Task Sheet: Follow the step-by-step procedures outlined in the selected HSE Asbestos Essentials task sheet precisely.
Continuous Dampening: Keep the ACMs thoroughly dampened throughout the removal process.
Careful Handling: Handle asbestos-containing materials carefully to minimize fiber release. Avoid breaking or crushing the materials.
Waste Bagging: Immediately place removed asbestos waste into labeled asbestos waste bags. Double-bag if necessary. Seal the bags tightly.
7. Decontamination Procedures:
Personal Decontamination: After completing the work, workers must thoroughly decontaminate themselves before removing their PPE. This includes:
H Class Vacuuming: Vacuuming coveralls (while wearing RPE).
Wiping Down: Wiping down RPE with a damp cloth.
Safe Removal of PPE: Carefully remove PPE to avoid contaminating the surroundings.
Waste Disposal: Dispose of contaminated PPE as asbestos waste.
Phase 3: Post-Work Clearance and Disposal
8. Waste Disposal:
Hazardous Waste Consignment Note: Complete a hazardous waste consignment note, as required by regulations, for the transportation and disposal of asbestos waste. This is a legal requirement!
Licensed Waste Carrier: Use a licensed waste carrier to transport the asbestos waste to an authorized disposal site.
Disposal Records: Retain records of waste disposal, including the consignment note.
9. Final Cleaning:
Thorough Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the work area using a HEPA vacuum cleaner (H Class) and damp cloths. Pay attention to all surfaces, including floors, walls, and ceilings.
Visual Inspection: Conduct a visual inspection to ensure that all visible asbestos debris has been removed.
10. Statement of Cleanliness:
Statement of Cleanliness: Once you are certain that the area is clean and safe, complete a "Statement of Cleanliness". The UK Health and Safety Executive provides a standard template for this document. This statement confirms that the work area has been properly cleaned and is safe for re-occupation. Include the date, scope of the work, and the name of the person responsible for the cleaning. This demonstrates due diligence.
Record Keeping: Keep a record of all activities, survey, notification, and work practices.
Key Considerations:
Training: Workers must receive adequate training on asbestos awareness, NLW/NNLW safe work practices, and the proper use of RPE/PPE.
Competence: Ensure that all workers are competent to carry out the assigned tasks.
Emergencies: Have a plan in place for dealing with emergencies, such as accidental fiber release or injuries.
Regular Review: Review this checklist regularly and update it as necessary to reflect changes in regulations or best practices.
Seek Advice: If in doubt, seek advice from a qualified asbestos professional.
By following this checklist and adhering to HSE guidance, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with non-licensed asbestos removal work and protect the health and safety of workers and the public. Remember, asbestos is a dangerous substance, and safety must always be the top priority.
Important HSE References to link to:
HSE Asbestos Essentials: https://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/essentials
Notification of notifiable non-licensed work with asbestos (NNLW): https://notifications.hse.gov.uk/asbestosform/NNLW
Example Statement of Cleanliness: https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/guidance/em10.pdf
Written and Compiled by: Elle.
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