Competence for Periodic Inspections and Condition Monitoring of Asbestos

Asbestos File/Register

The asbestos file/register in schools should be user-focused, clear, and easy to understand. To achieve this, you should:

• Provide large-scale plan drawings that clearly indicate the precise locations of existing ACMs within the school. Retain separate records of previously removed asbestos, including details of removal processes, to ensure transparency for future reference;

• Update the asbestos register/log to specify the product types that contain ACMs, such as floor tiles, insulation around pipework, etc; and

• Include larger photographs of existing ACMs in the register/log to facilitate easier identification and location.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) states that periodic inspections or condition monitoring of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can be conducted without specific training if high-quality photographs clearly showing the ACMs are available.

Essential Elements of an ACM Management Plan

A comprehensive written management plan for ACMs should include:

• Identification of the duty holder and responsible persons;

• Measures ensuring responsible persons are competent and adequately trained, including refresher training schedules;

• Clear delineation of responsibilities for ACM management;

• Verification that asbestos surveyors are competent;

• Procedures for reviewing and accepting asbestos surveys conducted by third parties;

• Steps for creating and maintaining an asbestos register from survey findings;

• Procedures for ensuring staff awareness of ACM locations and protocols for accidental damage;

• Risk management measures to prevent ACM disturbance by school staff, including awareness training and risk assessment protocols;

• Information-sharing protocols with emergency services regarding ACM locations;

• Inspection and monitoring procedures for ACMs, including photographic records;

• Annual review and update of the asbestos management plan and register;

• Safe removal procedures for ACMs, with documentation of completed work;

• Guidelines for contractor competence and training before working in areas where ACMs are present or suspected; and

• Requirements for supervising contractors to prevent ACM disturbance.

Additional Guidance

HSE guidance: Managing contractors: A guide for employers—particularly Section 4, which outlines five practical steps for managing contractors, applicable to all workplaces.

By following these guidelines, schools can effectively manage asbestos risks, ensuring compliance with HSE regulations and safeguarding staff, students, and contractors.

Asbestos Management Plan

The Asbestos Management Plan should outline:

• Training requirements for responsible persons, including timelines for refresher training on asbestos management and contractor control;

• Defined responsibilities of responsible persons;

• Procedures for periodic inspection/monitoring of ACMs;

• Guidelines for selecting and managing contractors to prevent ACM disturbance; and

• Protocols for internal maintenance work to ensure ACMs are not inadvertently disturbed.

Relevant Guidance

For further details, refer to the following:

• HSE web pages: The duty to manage asbestos in buildings (includes an example management plan and a blank template for use);

• Approved Code of Practice (2012 Regulations, Paragraphs 129-147); and

• HSE guidance HS(G)227: A comprehensive guide to managing asbestos (see Paragraph 4, Page 70 for ACM inspections).

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Handsam Resources

Example Management of Asbestos Policy

GM05 Managing Asbestos

GM23 Asbestos Safety Information Handout

GM27 Asbestos Management Plan

HSE: Asbestos: Introduction to Asbestos essentials

HSE: Managing and Working with Asbestos: Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (Approved Code of Practice and Guidance) (L143) (2013)

Comparisons between the current condition and the photos can be made. However, if there is any change in condition—such as cracks, damp patches, or other deterioration—a reassessment is required. In such cases, a competent contractor must carry out the material assessment.