Objective

We were instructed to carry out an asbestos management survey at a commercial industrial unit in West Horndon, Essex. The dutyholder required a compliant asbestos assessment to meet their legal obligations under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and to ensure the premises remained safe for staff, contractors, and visitors during ongoing operations.

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Approach

A full non-intrusive asbestos management survey was undertaken across all reasonably accessible areas of the site. This included warehouse spaces, workshop areas, offices, service rooms, and external elevations.

Materials suspected of containing asbestos were sampled where appropriate and analysed by a UKAS-accredited laboratory. The survey was completed in accordance with HSG264 guidance, ensuring a thorough and reliable assessment without disrupting normal business activities.

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Findings

• Roofing Materials: Asbestos cement roof sheets were identified to the main warehouse structure. The sheets were weathered but intact, with no visible damage or signs of fibre release.

• Wall Cladding: Asbestos cement panels were identified to sections of external wall cladding. These were in stable condition and securely fixed.

• Internal Services: Asbestos insulating board (AIB) was presumed within service riser panels and electrical intake cupboards. These areas were sealed and showed no evidence of disturbance.

• Other Areas: No asbestos-containing materials were identified within office floor finishes, internal partition walls, or ceiling tiles.

Note: The asbestos register provides full material descriptions, exact locations, photographs, and risk assessments for each identified ACM.

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Recommendations

• Management & Monitoring: All asbestos cement materials should be retained and visually inspected as part of an ongoing asbestos management plan.

• Access Controls: AIB panels should remain sealed, labelled, and restricted from unauthorised access.

• Contractor Information: The asbestos register must be made available to all contractors prior to any maintenance or repair works.

• Future Alterations: Any refurbishment, roof replacement, or structural changes will require a dedicated asbestos refurbishment or demolition survey before works commence.

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Outcome

The client now has a fully compliant asbestos register and management plan for the site, enabling them to continue operating safely while meeting their legal duties as a commercial duty holder. All identified materials were assessed as low risk under normal use, with clear procedures in place for ongoing management and future works.