Asbestos Management Policy

Policy Statement

GME Painting Contractors Ltd is committed to ensuring the health and safety of all employees, contractors, tenants, and visitors. In accordance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, we will manage asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) effectively to minimize exposure risks during works, particularly related to specialist damp and timber remediation in any social housing properties.

Objective

This policy aims to outline our approach to managing asbestos in our properties, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, protecting the health and safety of all stakeholders, and outlining procedures for dealing with ACMs during damp and timber works.

Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, and subcontractors involved in any work on behalf of GME Painting Contractors Ltd particularly in relation to social housing environments where specialist damp and timber works are conducted.

Responsibilities

1. Asbestos Management Team (AMT):

1. Ensure compliance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
2. Maintain an updated asbestos register identifying the presence of asbestos in properties.
3. Conduct regular training and awareness sessions for all employees and contractors.
4. Supervise all works involving asbestos and ensure proper methodologies are followed.

2. Employees and Contractors:

1. Adhere to all procedures outlined in this policy and report any suspected ACMs.
2. Attend training sessions and maintain awareness of asbestos management practices.

Identification and Assessment

1. An initial asbestos survey will be conducted on all properties within the social housing portfolio, focusing on areas impacted by damp and timber issues.
2. The survey will identify and assess the condition of ACMs, enabling the formulation of management plans.
3. All findings will be documented in the asbestos register and made accessible to employees and contractors prior to any work commencing.

Planning and Execution of Works

1. Pre-Work Assessment:

1. Prior to undertaking any specialist damp or timber works, a thorough risk assessment must be carried out.
2. The assessment will include an evaluation of the potential presence of ACMs, assessing the need for asbestos removal or encapsulation.

2. Consultation:

1. Tenants and relevant stakeholders will be informed of potential asbestos risks and management plans before work begins.
2. Regular communication will be maintained throughout the project to ensure everyone is aware of changes or developments.

3. Control Measures:

1. All works involving ACMs will be carried out by licensed asbestos removal contractors.
2. Effective control measures, including enclosure, negative pressure units, and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), will be implemented to ensure safety.

Training and Awareness

1. Regular training sessions on asbestos awareness and management practices will be mandatory for all employees and contractors.
2. Training will cover identification of ACMs, understanding health risks, procedural compliance, and emergency response.

Monitoring and Review

1. The AMT will conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with this policy and the effectiveness of asbestos management strategies.
2. The asbestos register will be reviewed and updated annually or when new information arises.
3. Feedback from employees, contractors, and tenants will be gathered and used for continual improvement.

Emergency Procedures

1. In the event of accidental disturbance of ACMs, immediate action must be taken to isolate the area, prevent access, and notify emergency services.
2. Employees and contractors must follow emergency response procedures as detailed in the training sessions to limit exposure and manage the situation safely.

Policy Review

This Asbestos Management Policy will be reviewed annually or when significant changes occur to the law or organisational structure. The review process will involve consultations with relevant stakeholders, including health and safety representatives.

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