The HSE are currently placing a strong focus on how asbestos is managed during their inspections. As a result, organisations must ensure they are fully compliant with the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2012, Regulation 4, which outlines the duty to manage asbestos in non-domestic premises.

Under Regulation 4, if you are the person responsible for the repair and maintenance of a non-domestic building, you have a legal obligation to properly manage any asbestos present. This duty includes the following requirements:

• Take reasonable steps to determine the presence of asbestos: You must identify whether asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are present, and if so, establish their quantity, location, and current condition.

• Presume materials contain asbestos unless proven otherwise: If there is any uncertainty, materials should be treated as containing asbestos until strong, reliable evidence shows that they do not.

• Create and maintain an up-to-date asbestos register: This record must detail the location and condition of all known or presumed ACMs and be updated whenever new information becomes available.

• Assess the risk of exposure: You must evaluate the likelihood that anyone could be exposed to asbestos fibres from the materials identified, considering their condition and the activities carried out in the area.

• Prepare a detailed asbestos management plan: This plan should clearly set out how the risks from ACMs will be controlled, including specific procedures, responsibilities, and timescales.

• Implement the management plan: You must ensure that all actions identified within the plan are carried out effectively, and that appropriate control measures are put in place.

• Review and monitor the plan regularly: The management plan and its associated arrangements must be periodically reviewed to ensure they remain accurate, effective, and aligned with current conditions and activities.

• Provide relevant information to those who may disturb ACMs: Anyone who is likely to work on or near asbestos-containing materials—such as contractors, maintenance staff, or other personnel—must be given clear information about the location and condition of these materials before work begins.