Objective

We were appointed to undertake an asbestos management survey at a commercial leisure venue in Ongar, Essex. The dutyholder required a compliant asbestos assessment to fulfil their obligations under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, ensuring the premises were safe for staff, contractors, and members of the public during continued operation.

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Approach

A full non-intrusive asbestos management survey was completed across all reasonably accessible areas of the site. This included the main permanent building, internal service areas, and external elevations.

The temporary marquee structures visible on site were also inspected and assessed to confirm construction materials and identify any potential asbestos-related risks. Where materials were suspected within the permanent building, representative samples were taken and submitted to a UKAS-accredited laboratory for analysis.

The survey was carried out in accordance with HSG264 guidance, without disrupting normal business activities.

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Findings

• Main Building – Textured Coatings: Textured coatings were identified on ceilings within internal service areas of the main building. Analysis confirmed the presence of chrysotile (white asbestos). The coatings were in good condition and showed no signs of damage or flaking.
• External Elements: Asbestos cement was identified within rainwater goods and soffit panels to sections of the permanent structure. These materials were intact and securely fixed.
• Service Voids: Localised asbestos insulating board (AIB) was presumed within boxed service runs and access panels. These areas were sealed and showed no evidence of disturbance.
• Temporary Structures: The marquee and canopy structures were confirmed to be modern, non-asbestos-containing materials and did not form part of the asbestos register.
• Other Areas: No asbestos-containing materials were identified within glazed extensions, floor finishes, or modern internal partitions.

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Recommendations

• Management & Monitoring: All identified asbestos-containing materials should remain in place and be visually inspected as part of an ongoing asbestos management plan.

• Access Control: AIB-containing service areas should remain sealed, labelled, and accessed only by authorised personnel.

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

• Future Works: Any refurbishment, extension, or structural alterations to the main building will require a dedicated asbestos refurbishment survey before works commence.

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Outcome

The dutyholder now has a fully compliant asbestos register and management plan for the site. All identified asbestos-containing materials were found to be in stable condition and present a low risk under normal use. The venue can continue operating safely, with clear procedures in place to manage asbestos risks and remain compliant with current legislation.