Builder exposed to airborne asbestos for 5 hours due to lack of survey

If any work is to be carried out in a building that has been standing for a number of years, then it's imperative that a refurbishment and demolition survey be carried out. Otherwise, it is not known whether asbestos is present in the building, potentially exposing workers to the fatal substance.

That's exactly what happened to Jonathan Arnold, a 49 year old builder who was tasked with fitting central heating piping in Oxford House, in Combe Down, Bath. His employer and the building's owner, Formac Electronics Ltd, carried out no such surveys before work commenced.

It turned out the building contained blue asbestos (crocidolite), and Arnold was breathing in high concentrations of the airborne asbestos fibres for 5 hours. He is now at risk for a range of cancers associated with exposure to asbestos.

The HSE carried out an investigation and found Formac had carried out no surveys, or presented relevant information to those carrying out work in the building.

HSE inspector Helena Tinton commented:

"The damage to Mr Arnold's health after being exposed to such a high concentration of this potent carcinogen could be very serious and he now has to wait to find out what the long-term effects of this exposure will be."

Formac has been fined a total of £6,613.45 after admitting a breach of Regulation 10 of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007.

Carrying out appropriate surveys before work commences in a building is imperative. It not only ensures the health of those working, but also protects employers against possible prosecution and fines. C&D Consultancy offer a range of courses including several aimed specifically at dealing with asbestos. Check out our training page to learn more, or get in touch to chat about your needs.

Source: HSE