Builder fined £12,500 for disregarding asbestos risk

A Surrey builder has been handed a £12,500 fine and costs demand after demolishing a house known to contain "high risk" asbestos.

Before the house was set to be demolished a plumber had previously carried out a partial survey of the building and deemed it unsafe to work within. The builder in question, Stuart Pearson, knew of the survey, which said the area was unfit for work and required a licensed asbestos contractor for removal of the material to make it safe. This information was ignored, the house was demolsihed, and the surrounding environment was subsequently contaminated.

Pearson was found guilty of breaching Regulation 5 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations in the Guildford Magistrates Court. He received a fine of £5,000 and must pay costs of £7,500.

It is imperative that the relevant surveys and actions be taken to ensure the safety of workers and the general public on any site. C&D Consultancy offer a range of courses to ensure the proper procedures are known about, therefore avoiding any issues. Please get in touch or visit our training pages if you'd like to know more.

Source: HSW