April 13th, 2007

The UK's Health and Safety Executive has strengthened regulations relating to asbestos, making procedures even more stringent for health and safety reasons. According to the amendment in the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006, which was strengthened earlier this month, those that certify any premises to be safe following asbestos related works must have proper accreditation.

At present the only accrediting body in the UK is United Kingdom Accreditation Service, or the UKAS. This means that anyone issuing a certificate to confirm that a site or premises are safe following this type of work must have received proper accreditation. These people must also meet the requirements in two international standards in order to demonstrate competence in this area.

Regulations relating to asbestos related work are very stringent because this material is a known carcinogenic, and can cause various other health problems as well, such as lung scarring or respiratory problems. Exposure to airborne dust and fibers can result in such health problems, and therefore those working with and removing asbestos have to have the proper qualifications and protection to do so.