The premier independent magazine for the UK and global asbestos industry
Autumn 2024 #14 News | Events | Industry
THE BIGGEST ANNUAL ASBESTOS EXTRAVAGANZA
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CONTRACTOR CHECK-IN
With Casey Cross, Operations Director of
WestCross Environmental Services
In-house and end-to-end
From consultancy to demolition and remediation Collard Group is a one-stop-shop for our public sector, local authority, commercial and residential clients. In 2022 we acquired Amiante STR so together we’ve been demolishing buildings and solving complex hazardous material problems for over 30 years.
Management of the entire process, from surveying to disposal.
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Asbestos Hub is published four times a year. Subscription records are maintained at Demolition Hub Ltd, Suites 5 & 6, Chapel House, 1-6 Chapel Road, Worthing, West Sussex BN11 1EX.
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When you’re building a brand, your first priority is to make friends – and I’d say we’ve done a pretty good job of that. Now, over three years down the line, with a quarterly magazine that has steadily grown, those friendships have become even more crucial to our success and to the way we represent the industry. As we continue to spread our wings further in our mission to give the global asbestos sector the recognition it deserves, we look to strengthen these bonds even more.
That’s why I’m particularly excited about the rekindled partnership we’ve formed with the brilliant team at WestCross Environmental Services Ltd in Slough. Our renewed collaboration has brought us closer than ever and WestCross confirmed this by becoming a sponsor at last month’s British Asbestos Awards. More of that later. So, I am thrilled to share that Operations Director Casey Cross is the subject of our Contractor Check-In interview in this autumn edition.
Catching up with our good friend Casey, we discussed a range of fascinating topics, making this our third consecutive Contractor Check-In. His insights and WestCross’s innovative work are a perfect fit for this edition and I can’t wait for you to read all about it.
Meanwhile, it’s been just over a month since the 3rd annual British Asbestos Awards took place in early September. Held in London, this year’s event was a resounding success, celebrating the tireless efforts of our incredible British contractors and the industrious suppliers who support them. We have all the news, winner announcements, and photographs from this memorable evening featured in the pages ahead. You can catch the full coverage inside.
Looking forward, we’ll be back in early September next year, once again hosting the awards alongside our demolition colleagues at the same fantastic venue (Royal Leonardo St Pauls). Make sure to keep an eye out for updates and secure your table early. And don’t forget to put yourself forward for a well-deserved award – we’re eager to celebrate even more of your achievements in 2025!
This year’s awards were made even more special by the 3rd annual Demolition Hall of Fame ceremony, which welcomed another industry luminary into the ‘Asbestos Pioneer’ category. I had the distinct honour of presenting this recognition to Liz Darlison, CEO of Mesothelioma UK and a dedicated nurse who has tirelessly advocated for those affected by asbestos-related illnesses. Liz’s work has made an extraordinary impact and we are thrilled to celebrate her welldeserved induction.
It’s partnerships like these and the people behind them that continue to inspire and elevate the entire industry. Thank you all for being part of this journey with us – here’s to many more successful years ahead!
Please do enjoy this, the autumn issue of Asbestos Hub Magazine, it’s been quite the journey and with continued thanks to thanks to our editorial team, columnists and advertisers, big things lie ahead.
My very best,
Ben Chambers Publisher, Asbestos Hub ben@chambers.media
AMI NEWS:
AMI Seminar Discussing Latest EU Asbestos Safety Standards The Critical Role of Continuous Professional Development for AMI Members 6
ASESA NEWS: New Operative Development: Elevating Standards in Asbestos Removal
IATP NEWS: FAAM Asbestos 2024 Conference 12
ARCA NEWS:
ARCA partners with Assure360: a game-changing offer for asbestos removal companies
ARCA 2023/2024 AGM
GENERAL NEWS
Fibre Vault launch form
Latest guidance - Site Supervisor Inspection and Handover form
Asbestos Skips, Van Waste Compartments, Waste Storage and Movement on Site
Companies fined after 16-year-old worker exposed to asbestos
20th Anniversary ADAO Asbestos Awareness and Prevention Conference
Recap: Together, We Made History! 22
A Tragic Comparison: Grenfell Tower and AsbestosRelated Deaths in the UK
With Casey Cross, WestCross Environmental Services
Asbestos Management Institute
AMI Seminar Discussing Latest EU Asbestos Safety Standards
On the 9th September 2024, AMI members gained exclusive insights into the EU’s Revised Asbestos Worker Protection Directive during our seminar featuring Dr Yvonne Waterman LL.M. FFAAM, a leading expert in asbestos legislation.
Key takeaways:
1. Stricter Exposure Limits: The EU is dramatically reducing permissible asbestos exposure.
2. Advanced Detection: Emphasis on using modern
electron microscopes (SEM) for more accurate asbestos identification.
3. Proactive Removal: New focus on safe asbestos removal before demolition, rather than encapsulation.
4. Enhanced Training: Heightened requirements for certification of asbestos surveyors and removal workers.
5. Comprehensive Surveys: Stressing the critical importance of thorough asbestos surveys as the foundation of all safety measures.
6. Global Relevance: While EU-focused, these standards reflect cutting-edge science and achievable practices, offering a model for countries worldwide.
The seminar also discussed how these EU developments might influence UK practices and global industry trends.
AMI members not only gained valuable insights but also earned CPD credits, demonstrating their commitment to continuous professional development in asbestos management.
The Critical Role of Continuous Professional Development for AMI Members
In the field of asbestos management, staying current with the latest developments isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential. For members of the Asbestos Management Institute (AMI), Continuous Professional Development (CPD) serves as a vital tool for maintaining expertise and delivering the highest quality of service to clients. As the AMI moves to rigorously enforce CPD requirements from January 2025, it’s necessary to understand why this commitment to ongoing learning is so important for professionals and clients alike.
The AMI CPD Scheme: A Commitment to Excellence
The AMI CPD scheme requires members to accumulate at least 10 CPD points annually, with a minimum of 5 Core and 5 Non-Core points. This balanced approach ensures that members engage in a diverse range of professional development activities directly related to asbestos removal and management.
CPD activities fall into four main categories:
1. Work-based learning
2. Professional activity
3. Formal education
4. Self-directed learning
This comprehensive framework encourages AMI members to grow their skills and knowledge through various avenues, from on-the-job experiences to formal courses and independent study.
Keeping Pace with Industry Changes
The asbestos management industry is subject to frequent updates in technology, methodology, and legislation. An AMI member who regularly attends professional conferences and workshops is more likely to be familiar with the latest equipment, methodologies, guidance and legislation. This knowledge translates directly into more accurate and efficient asbestos surveys for clients. Changes in legislation can significantly affect asbestos management practices. AMI members who consistently engage in CPD activities are better positioned to interpret and implement these changes, ensuring that their clients remain compliant with the latest regulations. This proactive approach not only safeguards clients’ interests but also enhances the professional’s reputation and credibility.
Fostering Innovation and Best Practices
Moreover, CPD fosters a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the industry. By regularly updating their skills and knowledge, AMI members can contribute to the development of new techniques and best practices in asbestos management.
This collective advancement of the field benefits not only individual professionals but the entire industry and, by extension, public safety. As members share insights gained from their CPD activities, whether through writing articles
for publication or presenting at conferences, they contribute to a more knowledgeable and capable professional community.
The Power of Professional Networking
Networking is another crucial aspect of CPD. Through conferences, workshops, and seminars, AMI members can build valuable professional relationships. These connections often lead to collaborative opportunities, knowledge sharing, and mutual support, all of which contribute to the overall growth and resilience of the asbestos management industry. Attendance at AMI seminars, ARCA/NFDC regional meetings, and other industry events not only provides valuable learning opportunities but also allows professionals to exchange ideas and best practices with peers. This collaborative environment is essential for addressing complex challenges in asbestos management and driving the field forward.
Preparing for Future Challenges
As we look to the future, the importance of CPD in asbestos management is only set to increase. Emerging technologies, such as advanced detection methods or innovative containment systems, will reshape the industry. AMI members who consistently engage in CPD will be at the forefront of these changes, ready to implement new solutions that benefit their clients.
Whether it’s adopting more efficient removal techniques or
implementing cutting-edge risk assessment tools, professionals committed to CPD will lead the way in driving industry progress. This forward-thinking approach is crucial in an industry where public health and safety are paramount.
Beyond Regulatory Requirements
It’s important to note that while CPD often helps professionals meet regulatory requirements, its value extends far beyond mere compliance. For AMI members, engaging in CPD represents a commitment to excellence, a dedication to client safety, and a pledge to drive the industry forward. It’s about constantly refining one’s expertise to provide the best possible service in a field where precision and up-to-date knowledge can have significant impacts on public health and safety.
Why Clients Should Choose AMI Members
For clients seeking asbestos management services, the choice of provider can have far-reaching implications. Selecting an AMI member who actively maintains their CPD offers several distinct advantages:
1. Up-to-date Expertise: AMI members with current CPD are more likely to be aware of the latest industry developments, ensuring that clients receive advice and services based on the most current knowledge.
2. Regulatory Compliance: With the regulatory landscape constantly evolving, AMI members who maintain their CPD are better equipped to navigate complex compliance issues, reducing legal and financial risks for their clients.
3. Innovative Solutions: Exposure to a wide range of CPD activities encourages creative problemsolving. AMI members may be able to offer innovative approaches to asbestos management challenges that others might overlook.
4. Quality Assurance: The AMI’s commitment to enforcing CPD requirements serves as a form of quality assurance for clients. It demonstrates that the professional they’re working with is committed to maintaining high standards of practice.
5. Risk Mitigation: Asbestos management carries inherent risks. Working with an AMI member who is up-to-date with the latest risk assessment and management techniques can significantly reduce the potential for costly mistakes or oversights.
Making CPD Accessible
Recognising the importance of continuous learning, the AMI and industry partners are working to make CPD more accessible to members. For instance, the recent initiative allowing members to earn CPD points by reading ARCA News magazine and completing an online quiz demonstrates a commitment to providing flexible, relevant learning opportunities.
This approach not only makes it easier for members to maintain their CPD requirements but also ensures that they stay informed about the latest industry news and developments. It’s a winwin situation that benefits both professionals and their clients.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Continuous Professional Development is not just a requirement for AMI members—it’s a fundamental aspect of professional excellence in asbestos management. As the field continues to evolve, those who embrace lifelong learning through CPD will undoubtedly lead the way in shaping a safer and more efficient future for all.
By staying at the forefront of industry developments, AMI members ensure they can offer the most effective, compliant, and innovative solutions to the complex challenges of asbestos management. For clients, choosing an AMI member with a strong commitment to CPD is more than just selecting a service provider— it’s partnering with a professional dedicated to delivering the highest standards of safety and expertise in this critical field.
As the AMI moves towards rigorous enforcement of CPD requirements, it sends a clear message about the institute’s commitment to excellence. For discerning clients, this should be seen as an assurance of quality and a commitment to ongoing improvement in the vital work of asbestos management.
Asbestos Management Institute
New Operative Development: Elevating Standards in Asbestos Removal
In the highly specialised field of licensed asbestos removal, the development of employees is paramount to ensuring safety and operational excellence. The Asbestos and Environmental Services Association (ASESA) recognises this critical need and is committed to working with others to enhance the training framework for new operatives in the industry. A key initiative from ASESA’s governing council is to move beyond the traditional 3-day training industry, laying the groundwork for a comprehensive development strategy that addresses the evolving needs of the industry.
James Mennell, ASESA Director of Industry Competence & Development commented ”The importance of investing in employee development cannot be overstated. Contractors that prioritise the continuous growth of their workforce often experience significant benefits, including increased productivity, improved communication, innovation, enhanced customer service, and a greater degree of worker involvement. In the context of asbestos removal, where safety and compliance are paramount, these advantages are crucial. A
well-trained operative not only performs their tasks more efficiently but also contributes to a safer work environment”.
To facilitate this growth, ASESA is developing a robust industry that extends the initial training for new operatives. The first year of employment will serve as a roadmap, highlighting both shortand long-term goals. Central to this plan is a reflective workshop scheduled two months after the initial 3-day training. This workshop is designed to build on the foundational knowledge gained during the initial training and encourage operatives to engage critically with their roles.
One of the innovative features of the new development industry is the use of ‘what if scenario’ workbook exercises. These scenarios are designed to challenge operatives to think creatively and critically about potential situations they may encounter on the job. This approach not only solidifies underpinning knowledge but also helps manage operatives’ expectations regarding their roles and responsibilities. The insights gained from these workshops will be invaluable, contributing not only to individual growth but also to the achievement of the National
Vocational Qualification (NVQ) and beyond.
The shift toward a qualitative teaching and learning experience is essential for ensuring that every new operative entering the UK asbestos industry is well-prepared to meet the demands of their role. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, ASESA aims to enhance the overall competency of the workforce, thereby improving the industry’s standards as a whole.
In addition to the workshops and scenario exercises, ASESA’s industry will emphasise the importance of ongoing education and skills development. As the industry evolves and new challenges emerge, it is vital that operatives remain up-to-date with the latest practices and regulations. Continuous professional development not only enhances individual operatives’ careers but also strengthens the overall capability of the contractors they work for.
Graham Warren, ASESA Chief Executive told us “Ultimately, the goal of ASESA’s initiative is to create a highly skilled, knowledgeable, and adaptable workforce within the asbestos removal industry. By providing new operatives with a comprehensive training industry that goes beyond the basics, ASESA is setting the stage for a safer and more efficient industry. The investment in employee development is not just a commitment to the operatives themselves, but a promise to the communities they serve and the standards of safety that must be upheld”.
To find out more or to join this fresh new association, 100% dedicated to the asbestos removal industry, see the ASESA website here: https://asesa.org.uk
FAAM Asbestos 2024 Conference
The Independent Asbestos Training Providers (IATP) were honoured to take part in the FAAM Asbestos 2024 Conference, one of the industry’s most prestigious events. Bringing together leading professionals, researchers, and regulatory bodies, the two-day event provided the ideal platform to share insights and explore the latest advancements in asbestos safety and management.
Representing IATP at this key event were our very own Wayne Williams, Director of IATP, and Sam Collins, Fellow of the Faculty of Asbestos, a recognised expert in asbestos management. Both Wayne and Sam are dedicated advocates for raising standards in asbestos training and consultancy, and their participation in this influential conference helped further establish IATP’s reputation as a leader in the field.
Championing Asbestos Safety
As a driving force within the asbestos sector, Wayne Williams attended both days of the conference, contributing to discussions on behalf of IATP and engaging with fellow industry leaders. His role at the conference demonstrated IATP’s commitment to shaping the future of asbestos safety and training, reinforcing our position as a key player in providing high-quality asbestos training and consultancy.
Sam Collins, Deputy Registrar and Fellow of the Faculty of Asbestos Assessment and
Management (FAAM), also played an integral role. As an expert in regulatory compliance and risk assessment, Sam’s contributions to the conference, both as a participant and member of the FAAM conference committee, were invaluable. Her expertise ensured IATP was at the forefront of critical discussions, particularly around legislative updates and advances in asbestos detection technologies.
Sharing Expertise and Strengthening Connections
The panel discussions over the two days provided an excellent opportunity for IATP to contribute to addressing some of the asbestos industry’s most pressing issues. Both Wayne and Sam actively engaged in these discussions, ensuring that IATP’s extensive knowledge and experience was shared with peers, helping to drive the industry forward.
The conference also presented invaluable networking opportunities. Through engagement with other industry leaders, regulatory bodies, and experts, IATP was able to showcase its dedication to raising standards in asbestos training, solidifying our place as a trusted and influential organisation in the sector.
At the IATP, we are committed to continuing our efforts in improving asbestos safety and training across the UK and beyond, and our presence at events like FAAM Asbestos 2024 underscores this dedication.
COME & SEE THE NEW
DCU 151 PRO GUARDIAN
The DCU 151 Pro Guardian has been designed with a range of new features and upgrades to make things easier and safer for contractors on site.
We will soon be showcasing our new SMH 151 Pro Decontamination Unit with a Guardian safety pack, across our network of 8 fully operational branches throughout the UK. If you would like to register your interest, join us at the branch, or book a viewing and demonstration at your premises or siteplease scan the QR code and one of the team will contact you.
ARCA Partners with Assure360: A Game-Changing Offer for Asbestos Removal Companies
In a groundbreaking move set to revolutionise the asbestos removal industry, the Asbestos Removal Contractors Association (ARCA) has announced an exclusive partnership with Assure360, offering free access to their industry-leading personal monitoring record-keeping system for all ARCA members.
Addressing
a
Long-Standing Industry Challenge
For years, the accurate recording and analysis of personal monitoring data has been a persistent challenge in the asbestos removal sector. The complexity and time-consuming nature of these processes have often led to inconsistent practices, potentially compromising safety standards and regulatory compliance.
Enter Assure360’s solution: a streamlined, user-friendly system designed to simplify the recording of personal monitoring data and the calculation of 4-hour Time Weighted Averages (TWAs). This innovative approach recognises a fundamental truth in the fast-paced asbestos removal industry - if a process isn’t simple and quick, it’s unlikely to be consistently implemented.
Key Benefits for ARCA Members
The partnership between ARCA and Assure360 brings a host of advantages to licensed asbestos removal contractors:
1. Cost-Free Access: ARCA members will enjoy free use of Assure360’s personal monitoring module, a significant cost-saving benefit.
2. Efficiency and Simplicity: The system offers a time-efficient and user-friendly solution, encouraging consistent use across operations.
3. Proven Effectiveness: Members gain access to a tried-andtested exposure monitoring and 4-hour TWA analysis system.
4. Minimal Administrative Burden: Achieve compliance with reduced paperwork and administrative overhead.
5. Powerful Reporting Tools: Instant access to comprehensive reports enables better decision-making and operational insights.
Elevating Industry Standards
This partnership represents more than just a new tool for ARCA members. It’s a strategic move to elevate the entire industry’s approach to personal monitoring and data analysis. By providing access to Assure360’s extensive benchmark data - currently encompassing over 20,000 personal
monitoring records - ARCA gains invaluable insights into industry trends and challenges.
This wealth of information will enable ARCA to better support its members, advocate for the industry, and contribute to the ongoing evolution of best practices in asbestos removal.
Rollout Plan and Support
ARCA plans to roll out this exclusive offer at the end of November 2024. All ARCA members will be notified when the system becomes available, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to take advantage of this valuable resource.
To support the launch and help members get the most out of the new system, ARCA has developed a comprehensive introduction and training program:
1. Regional Showcases: The Assure360 system will be showcased at the forthcoming ARCA regional meetings throughout November 2024. These sessions will provide members with a firsthand look at the system’s capabilities and benefits.
2. Dedicated Webinars: ARCA will organise additional webinars specifically designed to provide information, instruction, and training on how to use and maximise the potential of the Assure360 system. These webinars will offer flexible learning opportunities for members across different locations and schedules.
3. Ongoing Support: ARCA is committed to ensuring its members can fully leverage this new tool. Continuous support and resources will be available to help members integrate the Assure360 system into their operations effectively.
A Call to Join ARCA
For licensed asbestos removal companies not yet part of ARCA, this partnership presents a compelling reason to join. The free access to Assure360’s system represents just one of the many benefits of ARCA membership. By
joining, companies align themselves with the industry’s leading trade association and gain access to a wide range of resources, training, and support.
To take advantage of this exclusive offer and explore ARCA membership, interested companies can visit the ARCA website at https://www.arca.org.uk/membership/howto-apply/ for detailed information on the application process.
Looking Ahead
As the asbestos removal sector continues to evolve, partnerships like this demonstrate ARCA’s commitment to innovation and member support. By leveraging technology and data, ARCA is helping its members stay at the forefront of industry best practices, ensuring safer, more efficient operations across the board.
It’s worth noting that the personal monitoring module is just one of many innovative, unique, and powerful solutions that Assure360 offers to the industry. This partnership marks the beginning of what ARCA anticipates will be a long-lasting and fruitful collaboration. As we continue to work closely with Assure360, we look forward to exploring additional ways to bring cutting-edge tools and resources to our members, further enhancing the value of ARCA membership.
In Conclusion
The ARCA-Assure360 partnership marks a significant milestone in the asbestos removal industry. It addresses a critical need, provides tangible benefits to ARCA members, and sets a new standard for data management and analysis in the sector.
For licensed asbestos removal companies, the message is clear: ARCA membership now comes with an added layer of value that can transform your approach to personal monitoring and data management. As the industry continues to face complex challenges, tools like Assure360’s system, backed by ARCA’s industry leadership, will be invaluable in maintaining high standards of safety and efficiency.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to elevate your operations and join a community of forward-thinking asbestos removal professionals. Contact ARCA today to learn more about membership and how you can benefit from this game-changing partnership, set to launch in November 2024.
ARCA 2023/2024 AGM
Very last minute into this issue we were delighted to be able to attend our third ARCA AGM as guests of SMH Products on the 4 October.
Always a brilliant do and always held at an exquisite venue, this year it was at the Institution of Engineering and Technology in London.
The morning is traditionally made up from senior ARCA representatives giving an update on the year and the positives were there to be seen. We were also treated to a very informative talk by the Adrian Hodkinson HM Principal Inspector (Head of Asbestos Unit) from the HSE. Although having only been in the post for six months gave a refreshing slide show on the HSE’s work as well as their own Asbestos Network, a forum through which the HSE works with relevant parties in a constructive way to ensure that work-related exposure to asbestos is prevented or minimised.
I have reached out to Adrian for a more detailed chat, hopefully that will arrive for the next issue.
For me the afternoon (and evening) networking provided an opportunity for my colleague Dan and I to network, share a catch up with industry friends and to see how just how much synergy there is there. For the record bags of it.
A brilliant day as you can see from the following photographs.
I would like to extend a massive thanks to SMH Products Ltd for hosting us on the day, and to Steve Sadley and all the team at ARCA for a brilliantly run event.
If you are interested in joining ARCA then please go to their website: https://www. arca.org.uk/
Fibre Vault Launch
ASESA member Fibre Vault have launched an innovative solution for hazardous waste storage and disposal.
ASESA Member Fibre Vault have launched their innovative solution for waste storage and disposal at the Contamination and Land Remediation Expo, held at the NEC Birmingham on Wednesday 11th and Thursday 12th September 2024.
Fibre Vault has been designed to revolutionise the safety of hazardous waste storage and transportation through a series of innovative solutions. Essentially, they have applied controls derived from HSE Licensed Asbestos removal standards, to boost safety in this critical area of the overall Asbestos remediation process.
The first innovation is the relocation of the tipping door release mechanism, away from the door to the opposite end of the skip thereby minimising
any potential exposure to Asbestos during the door opening and subsequent tipping activity.
Alongside this, is the introduction of a personnel access door where operatives enter the unit, rather than via the main tipping door, allowing for the safe positioning of waste parcels against the main door. This simple change in process means when the skip is raised waste movement is minimal meaning the waste bags are much less likely to be compromised, and the likelihood of any residual contamination once the unit is empty is also minimised.
The really big change though is the addition of an NPU to the unit, rated at over 1,000CMH, allowing for an air change rate per hour of over 30 (for an empty unit). This creates a controlled environment, akin to a live Asbestos enclosure or DCU, purging any airborne respirable fibres to reduce the risk of exposure to site workers. And again, just like negative pressure to a live enclosure, the controlled environment ensures there can be no outward leakage of airborne Asbestos fibres. Once something is placed in the skip, it isn’t getting back out, delivering an enhanced level of assurance particularly for sensitive sites.
Graham Warren, ASESA Chief Executive was at the expo and helped support the launch “I’ve always been a firm advocate for new technologies and approaches as we work to improve standards throughout the Asbestos removal industry. It’s been a really exciting expo as this latest innovation from one of our new members has been met with such interest from all parts of the Asbestos removal industry as well as the wider waste management sector.”
You can find out more on Fibre Vault’s website via the following link: https://fibrevault.co.uk/
Site Supervisor Visual Inspection and Handover Form
Site Supervisor Visual Inspection and Handover Form
HSE publication HSG247 Asbestos: The Licensed Contractors Guide (2006) does not provide guidance regarding the thorough visual inspection that is required by the LARC supervisor prior to a 4-stage clearance (4SC) by an independent analyst. The 2021 revision of HSG248
Asbestos: The Analysts’ Guide included new guidance for analysts on the planning of the 4SC, estimating the duration of visual inspections, and a template handover form.
The Asbestos Network Technical Working Group (AN TWG) has completed another appendix guidance document following a period of development which included supportive input from ASESA members. This latest guidance, Handover of Enclosures to Analysts for 4SC (Site Supervisor Visual Inspection and Handover Form), sits alongside a growing list of other appendices and memos on the CONIAC website, the definitive home for these.
This new guidance, appendix 01/24, provides practical guidance in the form of a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the Licensed Contractor Site Supervisor’s Visual Inspection and Handover. It also highlights the areas of new guidance in HSG248 relating to the 4SC procedure which are also relevant to Licenced Asbestos Removal Contractors.
The contents of this technical appendix and SOP should be used to inform initial and refresher training in this area, something ASESA have already incorporated into our refresher and initial training at all levels.
Whilst the handover form has been in use for over six years, there has been a lot of debate around the duration of supervisor visual inspections. This new guidance address this in particular how this can be made up via a phased approach, split into logical
phases over several shifts as the fine cleaning work progresses.
Once again this guidance has been the result of another great collaborative effort by the AN TWG, with input from all parties but in particular Rob Southall and Nick Garland who were the lead authors.
ASESA Chief Executive Graham Warren commented: “Members should review the guidance
including the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for supervisor visuals. Existing SOPs should be checked for completeness against this new standard, which has been designed to create a standardised SOP for our industry, no bad thing for such a critical stage. And it goes without saying that although this has now been finalised, feedback from members is encouraged.”
Asbestos Skips, Van Waste Compartments, Waste Storage and Movement on Site
Concerns have been raised through industry stakeholders, HSE licence renewal and site inspections and industry audits. This document seeks to provide clarity of requirements to ensure skips and van waste compartments are fit for purpose. Clarification is also provided on temporary waste storage areas, movement of waste on site and temporary storage in vans.
The Asbestos Network Technical Working Group (AN TWG) has completed another appendix guidance document following a period of development which included supportive input from ASESA members. This latest guidance, Appendix 02/24 Asbestos Skips, Van Waste Compartments, Waste Storage and Movement on Site, sits alongside a growing list of other appendices and memos on the CONIAC website, the definitive home for these.
To ensure only skips that are fit for purpose are used for asbestos removal works, they should meet the following minimum requirements:
• Accessible to allow for:
• Easy waste handling with minimal lifting
• Careful waste placement to all areas of skip/waste compartment
• Inspection and cleaning of all areas
• Sealed (to prevent loss of material) with a closely fastening door/lid that
is not warped/damaged (plastic is more prone to warping)
• Easily lockable
• Resistance to water ingress
• Appropriate signage
ASESA Chief Executive Graham Warren commented: “Following this issue being raised from the more indepth HSE Licence renewals that started in 2019, the appendix was written with the concept of a fit for purpose skip in mind but applied to waste compartments in vans and so on. The criteria for these therefore being very similar with one notable difference for vans, namely a secondary door should be fitted where the entire rear van compartment or part thereof is used..”
The guidance also provides useful detail on signage requirements, positive pointers around waste movement and temporary storage on site, and clarification of circumstances when waste remains within vehicles overnight.
Companies fined after 16-year-old worker exposed to asbestos
Two companies have been fined after a teenage worker was exposed to asbestos.
The 16-year-old had been working for P Turnbull Joinery and Building Services Ltd on an outbuilding of a domestic property after the firm had been hired by Alt Berg Holding Limited to refurbish the property in Richmond, North Yorkshire. He had been breaking up cement sheets taken from the roof of the property and putting them into a skip on 7 June 2021. Asbestos was later found to be in the cement sheets, exposing the worker to asbestos fibres.
A Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation found that Alt Berg Holdings Limited had failed to carry out an asbestos refurbishment and demolition survey of the property, which would have identified the asbestos. P Turnbull Joinery and Building Services Ltd had not properly assessed the work and failed to prevent the worker being exposed to asbestos.
P Turnbull Joinery and Building Services Ltd, of Attwood Terrace,
Wolsingham, Durham, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The company was fined £2,000 and ordered to pay £500 in costs at Peterlee Magistrates’ Court on 20 June 2024.
Alt Berg Holdings Limited, of Moor Road, Melsonby, Richmond, North Yorkshire, pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 4(4) of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015. The company was fined £6,000 and ordered to pay £1,950 in costs at Peterlee Magistrates’ Court on 20 June 2024.
HSE Principal Inspector Chris Tilley commented: “A suitable and sufficient asbestos refurbishment and demolition survey of the building undertaken by the client and provided to the contractor before work started would have identified the presence of asbestos in the roofing materials. The contractor could have ensured that suitable controls were put in place and the asbestos removed safely before further work was undertaken.
“This incident could so easily have been avoided by the provision of suitable and sufficient pre-construction information, effective communication between the parties and the use of correct control measures and safe working practices.”
This prosecution was brought by HSE enforcement lawyer Chloe Ward and supported by HSE paralegal officer Rebecca Withell.
20th Anniversary ADAO Asbestos Awareness and Prevention Conference Recap:
Together, We Made History!
Our 20th Anniversary Asbestos Awareness and Prevention Conference, themed “Exploring the Intersection of Asbestos Prevention, Policy, and the Law,” was an extraordinary success!
Thank you to everyone who attended, presented, volunteered, and sponsored ADAO.
As Dr. Richard A. Lemen, United States
Assistant Surgeon General (retired) shared, “The 20th Anniversary of the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) highlights the unique role it plays in emphasizing the need for a total ban of asbestos in the United States and eliminating the preventable 40,000 deaths from asbestos-related diseases each year in the United States.”
A Tragic Comparison: Grenfell Tower and AsbestosRelated Deaths in the UK
The Grenfell Tower fire of June 2017 stands as one of the most dramatic tragedies in modern British history. This catastrophic event claimed 72 lives and has left countless others traumatised, trapped and living in fear in unsafe buildings. The inquiry that followed revealed severe failures in building regulations, safety standards, and emergency response protocols. While Grenfell highlighted the immediate dangers of unsafe building practices,
another much larger silent crisis continues: asbestos-related deaths, which continue to claim thousands of lives every year across the UK.
Early Warnings Ignored
Both Grenfell Tower and the ongoing asbestos crisis share common themes: decades of systemic neglect, regulatory failures, and a prioritization of economic considerations over life safety, leading to catastrophic consequences.
In Grenfell’s case, the use of flammable cladding and inadequate fire safety measures highlighted the urgent need for stringent regulations. Urgent warnings were ignored; in 1999, the UK government was advised that such cladding was unsuitable for high-rise buildings, and it was subsequently banned in countries like the U.S. and Germany. The Lakenal House Fire in 2009, which killed six people, demonstrated that a “stay put” policy was no longer sufficient for aging high rise buildings with compromised safety.
Residents of Grenfell Tower had their fire safety concerns repeatedly dismissed. On the night of the fire, both residents and firefighters
were given incorrect instructions to stay put for over an hour—time that could have allowed for a full evacuation and significantly reduced the scale of the tragedy.
Had the government acted on the advice regarding cladding, or had fire authorities reviewed their evacuation strategies, it is likely that no one would have died. Meanwhile, many stakeholders in fire safety, building, and housing industries complacently asserted that everything would be fine as long as everyone else did their job—while knowing full well that many were not.
The Costs of Complacency: Inaction, Indifference, and Economic Interests Over Life Safety
Indifference, inaction, and incompetence led to 72 completely avoidable deaths and an estimated £15 billion in remediation costs. Additionally, nearly one million people are now trapped in unsafe, unsellable homes, living in constant fear.
The Culture of Complacency
The culture of indifference that prioritises economic interests over life safety was not only easy but almost inevitable. Fire safety deaths had steadily declined from nearly 1,000 in 1980 to just over 300 in 2016, fostering complacency among stakeholders: central and local government, fire authorities, architects, and builders, all operating within a decade of austerity.
Today, many recommendations made after Grenfell remain unimplemented, partly due to a lack of funding and unclear responsibilities for associated costs. A significant challenge has been the absence of critical information, resulting in years of effort and millions of pounds spent merely to identify thousands of high-risk highrise buildings.
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Complacency
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) estimates that around 5,000 deaths each year in the UK are linked to asbestos-related diseases, though many believe the true figure may be significantly higher due to underreporting. Mesothelioma deaths were expected to peak over a decade ago, yet fatalities among ordinary workers—such as teachers and healthcare workers —continue to rise. Each year, thousands more die from asbestos-related diseases than from fires, yet these deaths lack the media attention and public outcry that accompany tragedies like Grenfell. Unlike the immediate horror of that fire, asbestos-related deaths occur slowly and insidiously, creating a silent epidemic that seldom makes the headlines and provoke change.
Prioritising Short-Term Economic Interests Over Public Safety
A striking similarity between the Grenfell tragedy and the ongoing asbestos crisis is the failure to prioritise public safety over economic interests. In Grenfell, cost-cutting measures resulted in the use of cheaper, unsafe materials that compromised residents’ safety. Initially, the justification for widespread asbestos use in construction centred on its fire-resistant properties and affordability, despite the growing awareness of its dangers. Both cases highlight a troubling tendency to prioritise profit over human life.
Today, the government’s failure to invest in the billions needed for maintenance, repair, and renewal of public properties has left millions living and working in potentially unsafe environments. Recent studies indicate that over 50% of asbestos-containing
materials (ACMs) are in poor condition, suggesting that the current regulatory framework for managing these materials is insufficient to ensure safety.
Indifference and Lack of Information
Today, the government is unwilling and unable to provide adequate information about higher risk sites where asbestos may still be present. There is a significant lack of transparency regarding where these hazardous materials are located, leaving workers and residents unaware of the risks they face. This information gap perpetuates a culture of ignorance around asbestos, which, leaves many unnecessarily vulnerable.
The Costs of Failure for Asbestos
Asbestos has already cost the UK billions of pounds and taken hundreds of thousands of lives, claiming thousands more each year. Safely removing asbestos will require tens of billions more. However, if the government ignores the warnings and recommendations from the recent 2022 Parliamentary Inquiry, and fails to invest a few million pounds in a new strategic plan, the consequences could be dire.
Such a plan should address current shortcomings in asbestos management, utilising a national database of properties containing asbestos to prioritise management and phased removal. Without timely action, we risk thousands more avoidable deaths, wasted billions of pounds and unquantifiable suffering in the coming decades.
A plea for Industry Support
At UKNAR, we believe that stakeholders in the asbestos industry can and should do much more to create a safer future. It’s not enough to sit back and complain about cost-cutting, government inaction, or others not fulfilling their responsibilities.
With this in mind, we will be reaching out to many of you soon to explore how we can collaboratively make a positive impact for everyone involved.
The tragedy of Grenfell was entirely avoidable; we owe it to ourselves to minimise the much greater future human and financial toll of asbestos. Let’s work together to ensure a safer tomorrow.
Some Current Parallels with Asbestos
CONTRACTOR CHECK-IN
Speaking to Ben Chambers, Casey Cross, Operations Director at WestCross Environmental Services discusses his career in the asbestos abatement industry and the company’s evolution since its inception in 2019, emphasising trust, presentation and quality service.
QHow did you come to work in the asbestos industry?
Many years ago, Myself & my twin brother Ashley, we were fresh faced 18 year olds, my father Terry Cross was in the industry, heading up operations at Silverdell PLC and we fell into it there, not knowing where our path’s were going to lead us. He gave us an opportunity and we were welcomed into the industry circa 2006/7. Fast forward 13 years, then the four of us – Dan West, Terry Cross, Ashley Cross and myself – joined together to form WestCross back in 2019 and we’ve not looked back.
Q
Tell me about WestCross’s core values and how you apply them
We want to provide an exemplary service to our clients that is going to instill a trust that we’re fully compliant with regulations but with a fresh innovation, let’s call it a new generation of asbestos removal. First impression, presentation and of course providing a good service are key to us.
Q
Tell us about your personal and corporate certifications and associations I’ve got a Level 4 NVQ in asbestos
removal contracts management & IOSH. There’s a few that I would love to be able to put some time aside to do when convenient. Maybe NEBOSH or AMI.
QAnd what about WestCross?
Currently we are accredited to ACAD, to name a few we’ve got Constructionline Gold, CHAS, Safe Contractor. We also have ISO accreditations in 9001, 14001 and 45001.
Would you look to associations such as ASESA?
It’s on the horizon, more than likely a meeting to take place in the near future.
QWhat are the standout projects that WestCross has been involved in?
It doesn’t matter how big a job is for us, from a domestic property to a million pound project as long as we’re protecting those persons within that building as per the regulations, they’re all standout projects. The order book is healthy, The public services & retail sector have been key to us in our growth thus far and something we will endeavor to continue.
Its really a hats off to everyone who has come on board with WestCross over the last 5 years.
QAsbestos removal and abatement is a highly skilled industry. How do you keep the team’s skills up to date?
We’ve got a training platform that controls all of our competence and certification, which probably goes above and beyond any other in the country.
QIs it an in-house programme?
It’s a company called My Compliance. We’ve actually got an annual conference next week in Birmingham which our SHEQ managers will be attending. They provide a system that’s
transparent across the board, we can see exactly what competencies are running out & when employee’s are filling out their the courses to keep up to date on an app, which is accessible through phones, tablets & laptops so extremely convenient. We take site auditing & TNA’s very seriously and this is transparent of the services we can provide to our clients.
QHow does that affect your offering?
I would say it puts us in the top 5% of LARCs in regards to competence & TNA’s.
QHow do you see the asbestos industry, and particularly yourselves, WestCross developing in the medium term? It’s a difficult one, because labour is restricted at the moment as the industry is busy, but from our perspective work has never really halted. We’ve continued on a growth path, but also stayed
grounded. I think there’s plenty of work out there for us as a business and I think we’re going to go from strength to strength.
I think what you guys at Asbestos Hub are doing is bringing a spotlight to the industry. We’re all now actually presenting ourselves and showcasing what we can do rather than being scared of showing images of men in RPE/ PPE, It’s the same with demolition really. We’re all highly trained and qualified professionals so why not showcase our skills?
QHow closely do you work with demolition contractors?
We do work closely with an array of demo contractors nationwide across the UK, including a fair few we were pleased to catch up with at the British demo awards a few weeks ago. It was a great spectacle you guys put on and should be proud of what you’re doing for the industries.
QSo would you be looking to partner up with more demolition contractors?
Yes. We are more than happy to lend our services to anybody who requires them.
Who or what would you be in an alternative life?
Perhaps advertising, marketing/ social media something along those lines.
Do you follow any sports?
I am a football fan, but I support QPR, so….. lets leave that there.
Who do you admire in business?
I love family run companies like Powerday, Ashville Aggregates etc, people who have built themselves up from the ground. Normal people, proud family belief companies.
What gets you out of bed in the morning?
Actually I just love the job, every day is different and it’s a great working alongside like-minded individuals who think the same.
What’s on your bucket list?
Actually I haven’t got a bucket list, but to be fair, Probably travel overseas a bit more, have some time off work, would be good.
Last place you travelled to that was not business?
Probably New York, last Christmas.
Your favourite food or cuisine?
I do like a good steak, but probably… Italian hits as a favourite.
And your triple of choice?
I love a beer, really, to be fair. Guinness is my go to.
Be or do?
As a business owner, I’m do.
The largest global celebration of asbestos removal experts took place last month (6 September 2024) at the 3rd annual British Asbestos Awards, once again hosted in the heart of London. This prestigious event has grown into a cornerstone of the industry’s calendar, bringing together roughly 400 asbestos and demolition professionals under one roof to honour the extraordinary achievements and innovations of the past year. With representatives from across the sector, the evening was a vibrant display of unity and camaraderie, showcasing the hard, dangerous and invaluable work carried out by those on the frontlines of asbestos removal, as well as the suppliers, supporters and partners who make it all possible. It was a night filled with networking, laughter and the chance to catch up with friends and colleagues old and new. Drinks flowed, stories were shared and the industry’s brightest stars were recognised for their dedication and excellence.
The awards ceremony highlighted the breadth and depth of talent within the British asbestos removal industry. Each award was
met with enthusiastic applause as we celebrated not just individual and company successes, but the collective progress and resilience of the sector as a whole. From groundbreaking projects to cutting-edge safety initiatives, the winners exemplified the very best of what this industry stands for.
The evening was further enhanced by a series of inspiring speeches and heartfelt moments that reminded us all why we do what we do. Whether it was hearing from award recipients or reconnecting with peers, the atmosphere was electric – a testament to the passion and pride that permeates the industry.
We have captured all the highlights, winners’ announcements, candid comments from attendees, and a collection of photographs from this unforgettable night below.
We hope you will join us again in 2025 at the same venue, with the date soon to be announced. Keep early September free in your diaries – next year promises to be even bigger and better as we continue to celebrate and support this incredible industry. Here’s to another fantastic year ahead!
British Asbestos Awards – Event Feedback
The awards evening was an immense success, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to shine a light on the great work taking place within the Asbestos Industry. Ben, Beverley and the team at Asbestos Hub deserve a lot of credit for hosting a memorable event. There was a buoyant, enjoyable atmosphere with a wellorganised agenda of awards, special recognitions and charity fundraising.
Conor Davies, General Manager, Thermac
Brown & Mason had a fantastic time at the Leonardo Royal London St. Paul’s for the 2024 British Demolition Awards. We were proud to take home not only the title of Contractor of the Year but also that one of our rising stars, Kayleigh Gerrietty, was named as Apprentice of the Year.
Brown and Mason
Brown and Mason won the Demolition Contractor of the Year award and Demolition Trainee/Apprentice of the Year
Clifford Devlin had a brilliant time at the event, which turned out to be both memorable and rewarding. A special thank you goes out to Demolition Hub, Asbestos Hub and Ben Chambers for putting together such a well-organised event. It was a fantastic atmosphere that brought people together, fostered networking and highlighted key industry insights.
Liam Hennessy, Head of Group Operations, Clifford Devlin
Gheorghe Tomozei, Supervisor, of Clifford Devlin won Asbestos Operative of the Year
This unique awards evening provided a great opportunity for us to learn about and celebrate a range of achievements from right across the demolition sector over the past year, highlighting a host of projects and people deserving of recognition. Hosted at a brilliant venue, the event itself had a packed agenda and was well organised. The combination of awards, fundraising for charity and special recognitions proved to be a successful formula. Special thanks go to Ben and all the team at Demolition Hub for the hard work put into making the event so enjoyable.
Ian Spence, Group Strategic Development Manager, Rhodar
Rhodar won the Demolition Contract of the Year Over £1m award. For further details of the project see their case study in this issue.
Clifford Devlin Asbestos Operative of the Year (Gheorghe Tomozei)
We are very proud of our team for the work they have put in over the last year. To once again be recognised with awards is truly humbling. We hope that the awards and commendations for individuals and projects can inspire our wider team to strive for the same recognition next year and many years to come.
Gheorghe Tomozei said: “The British Demolition and Asbestos Awards was absolutely amazing. The people I met were so kind and respectful to me and I enjoyed every moment of it. I’m doing my best at every single job, but it was unexpected to win the Asbestos Operative of the Year award. I’m thrilled for myself and the company I work for and really thankful to them for nominating me. My family is very proud that I won the award.”
Brown and Mason Demolition Trainee/Apprentice of the Year (Kayleigh Gerrietty)
Since joining in 2022, Kayleigh has gone from strength to strength. In her nomination, Kayleigh’s Site Manager praised her journey so far: “Having closely worked with Kayleigh over the past year and a half, I am immensely impressed by her exceptional performance and dedication to her work. She consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic, exceptional problem-solving skills and outstanding leadership potential. She has become an invaluable asset to our team, consistently delivering results and exceeding expectations. I have no doubt that she will continue to excel to make significant contributions in her future endeavours.”
On top of excellent technical skills, top-end qualification results and tackling any challenge that comes her way, Kayleigh has become integral to her team above and beyond her daily role. As a mental health support worker, she has been crucial in fostering a supportive, inclusive, and collaborative team dynamic.
Kayleigh shows that demolition is a rewarding and exciting career for anyone, and it’s a career based on merit where hard work is recognised. This sentiment is at the heart of Brown & Mason – we’re passionate about what we do and as such build teams filled with people who share that passion.
Kayleigh is a credit to herself, to her team, and to the whole company. She is committed to our values, such as hard work and expertise, while looking for ways to innovate and continuously develop. We are thrilled that this is recognised not only within the company, but at an industry level at the British Demolition Awards as Apprentice of the Year.
Thermac
Asbestos Industry Supplier of the Year
Thermac was delighted to be recognised as the Asbestos Industry Supplier of the Year. Over the last 12 months, Thermac has invested heavily in its product innovation, support services and staff development, endeavouring to create a forwardthinking, trusted and collaborative asbestos equipment supplier.
General Manager Conor Davies said: “We were extremely proud of the quality of our submission as we reflected on a successful 12 months of service and innovation, but we were most proud of our customer testimonials that really stood out in our awards submission. Having the support, encouragement and appreciation from our customers is a vindication that our operations and service are the best in class. We’d like to take this opportunity to say thank you to our customers for choosing Thermac. It’s a pleasure to work with them and support them with their contracting requirements.”
One of the most professionally run events that I have attended in a long time. I was very impressed with not only the organisation, but the extensive industry leading attendees present, all of whom make the demolition sector one to be proud of. Fireward will certainly be attending again and thanks go to those at Demolition Hub who make the event possible.
Fred Dulwich, Head of Sales, Fireward
Fireward won the Safety Innovation of the Year award
We had an incredible time attending the British Demolition Awards this year. Winning Waste Provider of the Year is an absolute honour and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team. The event was a fantastic opportunity to connect with industry leaders and celebrate innovation in the demolition industry. We’re excited to continue delivering best-inclass service to our customers.
Tony McPartland, Group Managing Director Windsor Waste Management and Zest Recycle
Windsor Waste Management won the Waste Provider of the Year award
As representatives of the Swantest team we were thrilled and honoured to be part of the prestigious British Demolition Awards. The event was an exciting and enjoyable experience, bringing together likeminded professionals from across the construction industry. We look forward to being part of the 2025 event for another fantastic evening.
Liam Dixon, Operations Director and Mihai Chelmus, Operations Manager, Swantest
I had an amazing time at the British Demolition Awards, I felt welcomed from the moment I arrived and was able to finally meet some familiar faces from LinkedIn in person, which made the night even better. The event was well organised with good food and I’m already looking forward to the next one!
Riley Pond, Contract Manager, The Labour Desk
Liz Darlison Asbestos Pioneer HALL OF FAME DeMOLITION
“Mesothelioma UK are often asked by people living with mesothelioma to do all we can to raise awareness and prevent other people being put at risk of exposure.
Demolition workers are at the forefront of managing the UK’s dreadful asbestos legacy through their amazing and important work, and we’ve found that linking with them and the wider asbestos industry is one of the best ways to achieve what these patients want. I feel honoured and tremendously grateful for the continuous warm welcome that I receive from people across the industry, as they work to make the UK a safer place.
I would especially like to thank the team at the British Asbestos Awards for this remarkable recognition. I am honoured to be
following in the footsteps of previous recipients – Dr Yvonne Waterman, Founder of the European Asbestos Forum and the late Mavis Nye BEM, President and Co-Founder of the Mavis Nye Foundation, a real Meso Warrior and a great friend to both the charity and to me, personally.
From patients, families and charity workers, through to support groups, healthcare professionals and the asbestos industry, we all want the same thing – a safer, asbestos-free UK to prevent future generations succumbing to this national healthcare nightmare.”
Liz has served as the Chief Executive of Mesothelioma UK, the national charity for anyone affected by mesothelioma, for more than 20 years, while also caring for patients at Leicestershire
hospitals. Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos in around nine out of ten cases. More than 2,700 people are diagnosed with the condition every year in the UK.
The charity exists to support people with mesothelioma to live better and live longer and to prevent mesothelioma happening to future generations. It does this by advocating for better treatment and care, enhancing quality of life, supporting research and amplifying the patient’s voice.
The team includes over 30 specialist nurses based in NHS trusts across the UK, striving to help everyone affected by mesothelioma access the expertise, care and support they need they need – no matter where they live.
For more information, visit www.mesothelioma.uk.com, email info@mesothelioma.uk.com or call the freephone information line on 0800 169 2409 (Monday to Friday 9am – 4pm).
ESS Expo 2024 delivers recordbreaking attendance
8 October 2024
ESS Expo 2024 has revealed recordbreaking attendance figures from this year’s event, solidifying its role in bringing the environmental services sectors together to provide sustainable solutions across the industry. For the very first time, ESS Expo united five key events for a 360-degree view of the environmental sector, attracting 12,328 visitors - a 10% increase compared to 2023.
Each of the individual shows experienced significant growth in visitor numbers. The Resource & Waste Management Expo (RWM) remains the flagship event in the portfolio, welcoming 9,222 attendees - an 18% rise from the previous year. Meanwhile, the Contamination & Land Remediation Expo (CLR) recorded an increase of 36%, bringing in 2,738 visitors and the Energy, Fuels & Decarbonisation Expo (EFD) attracted 3,036. The Water & Resource Management Expo (WRM) drew 2,413 attendees, a 32% increase from last year, while the brand-new Air Pollution Control Expo (APC) made an impressive debut with 1,209 visitors.
Speaking about the show, Edele Mallon, Marketing Officer at Ulster Shredders, said: “[The show] has been an excellent platform for spreading awareness of our trading capabilities and new products. We’ve been impressed by the diversity of technology on display and have discovered some
promising new products. The event generated genuine leads, and we’ve had the opportunity to showcase our latest high-quality products and expertise.”
Helen Liang, CTO of LabCycle, and visitor at ESS Expo 2024, added: “ESS Expo is a fantastic opportunity to take the pulse of the industry, see what’s happening with collaborations, and explore the latest developments in recycling plastic. It’s great to see practical solutions that are easy to implement and integrate into existing systems on display. Being here makes change feel achievable for businesses of all sizes and the diversity of companies present is great to see.”
Latest products on offer
Over 600 exhibitors from 58 countries joined the two-day event to launch and showcase their latest products, services, and unique solutions. Ulster Shredders expanded its product line with the introduction of the S-18 and S-22 Single Shaft Shredders. These innovative machines represent a significant advancement in shredding technology, offering exceptional performance and efficiency. Designed with userfriendliness and durability in mind, the S-18 and S-22 feature interchangeable screens and knives for easy maintenance and optimal productivity.
Located in RWM, heavy equipment and construction machinery manufacturer, Develon, launched its new wheel loader design for the waste handling industry. The new waste wheel loader was on the show floor displaying its novel design featuring a strong, lightweight loader frame and a unique and innovative lifting arm that minimises the front-end weight of the machine, giving a five-metre lift height. Designed for loading waste material into high sided containers such as walking or moving floor trailers, Develon’s new machinery attracted a lot of attention. Meanwhile, first-time exhibitor, Speedy Drums, displayed its range of manufacture conveyor drive drums and conveyor tail drums for the waste management industry.
At EFD, VEGA presented its range of level and pressure measurement solutions, tailored to support the sustainable energy sector. Through working demonstrations, visitors were able to get expert advice and instructions on its latest products, including VEGAPULS 6X radar level sensors, VEGAPULS Air autonomous radar sensor range, and more.
Providing learning experiences at WRM, Ofwat, the Water Services Regulation Authority, shared its latest Water Breakthrough Challenge 5 competition aimed to transform the UK water sector. Focusing on education and knowledge, Ofwat shared learnings from two new reports entitled ‘Circularity in Water’ and ‘Supporting Water-Efficient Communities’.
Elite headliners
Speaker sessions, panels, and Q&As were delivered by more than 350 experts across the show’s 17 stages and theatres. Industry giants and government bodies such as Defra, CIWM, ESA, Environment
Agency, Suez, Southern Water, Viridor, and Biffa were joined by representatives from the likes of Mott MacDonald, Ecologica, Greyparrot, Auditel, AMCON, and many others. The conversations and sessions addressed some of the most topics concerning netzero, the circular economy, and biodiversity.
Headlining the Summit Stage on day one (Wednesday, 11 September) was naturalist, TV presenter, and author Chris Packham, who led a session, ‘In Conversation with Chris Packham’, which shared his perspectives on the current state of environmental policies and emphasised the urgent need for proactive action. Packham advocated for the inclusion of diverse role models in the environmental sector, underscoring the importance of representation from various ethnic backgrounds to drive meaningful change and growth. He also highlighted the “significant benefits of a neurodiverse workforce”, noting how diverse thinking styles can “enrich environmental discussions and lead to innovative solutions.”
He encouraged attendees to see themselves as empowered agents of change, urging everyone to “take action and seize opportunities to make a positive impact” amidst the current environmental challenges. Packham also spoke on the critical role of the Green Belt in providing access to green spaces and advocated for a focus on improving farming and forestry practices, which are vital for conservation and wildlife growth.
Also headlining the Summit
Theatre was Mike Gunton, Executive Producer and Creative Director for the BBC Studios Natural History Unit and creator of award-winning series such as Africa, Planet Earth 2 and 3, The Green Planet, Dynasties, and Prehistoric Planet. His session on day one, ‘Planet Earth and Beyond: How to Show the Challenges Facing the Natural World and Keep Your Audience Engaged’, delved into the growing narrative around how human activities are reshaping our planet and the profound implications for all its inhabitants. He discussed the art of presenting these complex and urgent environmental issues with authenticity while ensuring how to captivate and inspire audiences.
Green talent
A recurring theme throughout the show was the importance of securing a strong pipeline of green talent to meet future demands. The Summit Theatre welcomed Dr Adam Read MBE, Chief Sustainability & External Affairs Officer at Suez UK, as the moderator for a panel session, ‘Enabling the Net Zero transition - unleashing green talent
through training, mentoring and networks,’ featuring Martin Baxter, Deputy CEO at the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA), and Nathan Cookson, Head of Learning and Development at the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM). The panel discussed the need for developing skills and new talent across various sectors to achieve the UK’s ambitious climate goals, as well as the challenges and opportunities in creating a workforce capable of leading the transition.
Baxter highlighted that while the government is focused on the power sector’s role in achieving net zero, the need for talent spans far beyond energy: “The next 6-7 years are critical,” he said. When asked about the main barrier to progress, his answer was clear: “skills and capability.” Cookson also shared insights into the talent needs of the waste and refurbishment sectors, estimating that 140,000 people will be needed to fill roles in these industries, and emphasised that it’s not just core jobs in these industries that matter but also the supporting and enabling roles.
The topic of a sustainably skilled
workforce was also extensively covered at the dedicated Green Skills & Future Talent Stage, sponsored by Grundon. Andy Harrison, Head of Delivery & Learning at Groundwork, led a session titled, ‘Attracting Talent: Creating Accessible Pathways into the Waste and Resources Sector for Young People’ which discussed the importance of engaging young people in green careers, particularly within the waste and resources sector, and explored lessons from other industries on creating accessible pathways for job seekers from underrepresented backgrounds.
Later, Simon Clark, Science Communicator at Tired Bear Films, along with Chris Isaac from FCC Environment, and Baxter from the IEMA, led a group Q&A session titled ‘Green Skills: How to Encourage More People into Jobs in the Environment Sector’ which enabled attendees to engage with the experts for insights into building a skilled green workforce. Meanwhile, Judy Ling Wong, Honorary President of the Black Environment Network spoke on ‘Worldwide Collaboration and Multiculturalism in the 21st
Century.’
The Women in Resource & Sustainability session at the Environment Networking Hub celebrated the contributions of women in the resource, recycling, and waste management sectors. Here, Vicki Hughes, Board Member & Technical Lead at Wood Recyclers’ Association; Claire Shrewsbury, Director of Insights and Innovation at WRAP; Fiona Campbell, Head of Sustainability and Public Affairs at Biffa; Francesca O’Neill, Head of Corporate Engagement at Bankers4NetZero; Gwen Frost, Director at Resource Futures; and Jacqueline O’Donovan OBE, Former Managing Director at O’Donovan Waste Disposal Ltd., discussed overcoming challenges, fostering diversity, and the importance of flexible working arrangements to increase participation.
Nearing towards a circular economy
The circular economy was a central theme at the event, with a strong focus on packaging, recycling, and data. At the Circular Economy & Sustainability Stage, a panel discussion titled ‘How Your Business Can Thrive and Survive in the Circular Future!’ featured leading experts Claire Shrewsbury, Director of Insights and Innovation
at WRAP; Geoff Mackey, UK Head of Plastics Europe; Kieren Mayers, Vice President of Environment, Social & Governance at Sony Interactive Entertainment; Lauren Rabbitte, Associate Director at Effective Consumable Solutions (ECS); Matt Manning, Head of Circular Economy at BT Group plc; and Rob McCann, Head of Environment, Climate & Nature at Virgin Media O2. The panellists shared best practices and hard-won insights on navigating the transition to a circular economy, offering practical tips on everything from product design and lifecycle management to innovative service models and building strong partnerships within the circular economy.
Later, Nick Stillwell, Managing Director of Protomax, highlighted his key achievement, the invention and creation of Stormboard, a plywood alternative made entirely from non-recyclable materials. Initially developed to build protective structures in disaster-affected areas such as Haiti, Stormboard exemplifies the importance of a circular economy, where producers take responsibility for reclaiming, reusing, and recycling materials. In his session titled ‘Recycling the Unrecyclable,’ Stillwell cited notable examples, such as the signage for the Victoria and Albert Museum
(V&A) and the London Marathon, both made entirely from waste materials.
Packaging plays a pivotal role in the transition to a circular economy and 64% of consumers now state that they are more likely to purchase products that support sustainable packaging practices. The Packaging and EPR Stage, sponsored by Valpak, brought together experts from WRAP, ESA, Biffa, DEFRA, Suez, and others to address key themes and challenges within this area.
On day two, a panel came together to discuss the highly topical and often contentious subject of ‘The progress of Extended Producer Responsibility’. Catherine Guy, Relationship Manager at Beyondly Global Limited; George Atkinson, Head of Policy at Valpak; Jordan Girling, Head of EPR at WRAP; Patrick Brighty, Head of Recycling Policy at ESA; and Paul Vanston, Chief Executive of The Industry Council for Packaging & the Environment, provided a comprehensive overview of the progress made, the challenges that remain, and the road ahead.
Atkinson opened the discussion by reflecting on the current state of EPR, noting that while significant progress has been made, the process is “far from over.” He
emphasised that producers are beginning to accept the realities of EPR but with over a year remaining before full implementation, there is still much to be done.
Girling shared his experience with EPR systems worldwide, stressing the importance of harmonisation across countries for smoother implementation, while Guy focused on the challenges businesses face in the transition to EPR, particularly in data collection and uncertainty around liabilities. She mentioned that some companies, like Fentimans, are concerned about the potential financial burden, urging for clearer communication and guidance from the government to help alleviate these fears. Vanston underscored that EPR will be managed through a hybrid scheme involving both government and NGOs but acknowledged that ongoing uncertainty about costs makes planning difficult for businesses.
He called for statutory targets to ensure financial backing, arguing that without these targets, securing necessary funding would be challenging.
AI and tech
In the panel discussion, ‘The Environmental Services AI Revolution: Are You on Board?’ experts examined AI’s impact on environmental services. Amy Hooper, Innovation Manager at Biffa Waste Services, discussed AI’s role in improving waste management and emphasised the need for ethical AI practices and data security. Chris Smith, Lead Consultant Resource Efficiency and Circularity at Beyondly Global Ltd, highlighted AI’s integration into environmental services and the importance of understanding its capabilities and cybersecurity risks. Gaspard Duthilleul, COO of Greyparrot, spoke about the rapid pace of technological advancement
and how AI can provide more efficient solutions, while Ziad Akl-Chedid, Vice President of Products at Wasterobotic, focused on AI’s practical applications in robotics, stressing the need to demonstrate its benefits to stakeholders. The panel concluded that AI is revolutionising the sector by offering advanced, efficient solutions for waste management and operational challenges, efficiency, and addressing ethical concerns.
Directors of Voom Ltd, Nick Fellows and Stephen Hayes, took to the stage to dive deep into how they reimagined waste-collection analytics using AI. In the session titled, ‘Pioneering a New Age: Clearsight AI’s Revolutionary Mapping of Waste Collections in Blackburn with Darwen’, they showcased how Clearsight AI provided unparalleled insights into waste collections compared to traditional methods. It offered the
geolocation of every bin collected, without the need for additional hardware. The Roundbalance tool leveraged this data to help optimise waste collection rounds.
Over at the Material and Markets Stage, a panel session explored how AI is helping the UK’s largest recovery facilities adapt to stricter regulations, titled: ‘Meeting increasing sampling requirements and enhancing MRF / PRF operations with AI-powered data solutions.’ Greyparrot’s Duthilleul, alongside Conor McCooey, CIO of Regen and Sam Reeve, CEO of Resource Futures, discussed how AI streamlines operations and addresses the growing demands of compliance reporting. With sampling requirements set to impact a wider range of facilities and materials from October, the panel session provided a timely opportunity to learn how AI can help stay ahead of evolving regulations.
Talking all things air
The successful debut of APC brought together speakers from EarthSense, The Global Action Plan, Envirosuite, and more. In the session, ‘The Air We Breathe Is All Our Business’, Nicki O’Malley, Director of Corporate Partnerships at The Global Action Plan outlined the organisation’s vision and mission, emphasising that improving air quality is essential for both people and planetary health. By 2030, their goal is for people in urban areas to breathe clean air, addressing what they see as the biggest environmental threat to both human health and the environment. O’Malley pointed out the staggering impact of air pollution on public health, noting that it contributes to 6m sick days per year in the UK alone, totalling an economic cost of £20bn annually. This burden falls disproportionately on vulnerable populations, making air pollution
not only an environmental issue but a social justice issue as well. Rob Mowat, Managing Director of ESS Expo, shared his thoughts: “ESS Expo aims to bring together all sectors of the environmental services industry, with the show representing a different aspect and highlighting how they overlap and complement one another. We are thrilled to have welcomed a record number of attendees this year, many familiar faces, as well as hundreds of new ones. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated - after a collaborative and successful event, we hope you all share in the reassurance that we are moving toward a greener, more sustainable future.”
ESS Expo 2025 will take place from 10 – 11 September 2025 at NEC Birmingham, register your interest to attend here: https://www.essexpo.co.uk/register-interest
Occupational Monitoring For Workplace Safety.
Sampling Pumps
Real-Time Dust Monitoring
Sarah Bolton CEO –
Lighthouse Charity
World Mental Health Day always brings a focus on what more could or should be done to support our industry’s workforce. Greater awareness of some of the issues can only be a positive thing, but for the Lighthouse Charity, our work to improve the wellbeing of our construction community is continuous; every hour, every day, every month,
We are consistently advocating for a positive mental health culture, but the past few years have presented the industry with a number of external challenges. Whilst we anticipated the far reaching and ongoing financial effects of COVID, the enduring impact on our mental wellbeing has proven to be just as challenging. The pandemic affected us with changing roles, altered working practices and increased lone working, spotlighting the nation’s emotional wellbeing. Coupled with the inherent challenges of working in construction, we’re confronted with numerous issues demanding attention.
So far this year we’ve seen a 33% increase* in people contacting us for support. I see this as positive as it indicates that people feel less stigmatised and more able to reach out for the support they need; be that through our helpline, live web chat or text support service. Each person has a ‘presenting problem’ but things are never black and white. We know that poor mental wellbeing goes hand in hand with the vast majority of calls for help we receive and what can start out as a simple issue can quickly spiral out of control and seem insurmountable.
As well as continually reviewing our charitable services, one of the keys to improving our industry’s wellbeing is to have Mental Health First Aiders in the workplace who are trained to spot the early signs and symptoms of someone who may be struggling. With over 15,000 MHFAiders in our industry, the message of support can be amplified, and simply starting a
supportive conversation can have a life changing and a lifesaving impact.
But this is not a tick box exercise and having the right people in place and then ensuring they get the support they need is paramount.
Volunteers should be exactly that, not individuals nominated purely on their seniority in an organisation. A good mental health first aider is someone that already demonstrates that they are a non-judgemental listener who can empathise with others and offer hope and support.
Our MHFAiders deal with extremely sensitive information on a regular basis and bear the emotional weight of our workforce. So, the next critical element is to ensure that they too can access the professional support they need.
Our charity has always been at the forefront of providing expert proactive and reactive charitable services and this is no exception. We offer a unique programme of support for the industry’s MHFAiders that incorporates access to peer support networks, new resources and empowers people with the skills to monitor their own wellbeing. This programme of support has been developed through feedback from MHFAiders who have firsthand experience of the many
challenges our workforce face.
Our peer support sessions are facilitated by a mental health professional and offer people the opportunity to share their experiences with other MHFAiders and receive encouragement in their role. It also offers updates on new referral pathways and resources so that they can signpost effectively.
We also offer a six-week Wellbeing Support course for MHFAiders which focusses on the importance of maintaining and restoring their own wellbeing and introduces mind-body practices to increase resilience to mitigate burnout.
Some might say that all of this is a ‘sticking plaster’ that only resolves a particular issue temporarily or until another problem arises. It’s true that this support is reactive, but the distinction is that we constantly seek to identify the root causes of the emotional, physical and financial wellbeing challenges faced by our workforce.
One of the ways that we achieve this is by giving MHFAiders the opportunity to log their interventions. All information is strictly confidential and does not identify the individuals supported but does identify the issues being raised. These have included suicidal thoughts, relationship
breakdowns, financial worries and feelings of isolation and loneliness. This information helps drive the strategy for our proactive interventions and enables us to focus our efforts accordingly.
Once an intervention has been logged, they are able to request further support by speaking with an MHFA Instructor or counsellor. This is particularly important after a traumatic or difficult incident and allows them to decompress and reflect on any impact on them as individuals.
Our MHFAiders are incredibly valuable but must be part of a wider strategy that responds to and tackles the root cause of the issues affecting our workforce. To support that, our Wellbeing Academy offers a huge variety of free training that equips everyone in our industry with the tools and soft skills to be able to navigate today’s challenges thereby supporting sustainable futures.
Better mental health literacy and a unified determination to support a positive culture change is also critical and whilst there’s more work ahead, we are fuelled by the industry’s shared commitment to improve the wellbeing of our construction community, I believe that together, we can make a tangible difference to our unique and truly remarkable industry.
Licensed asbestos removal notifications
Amending the expected finish date during licensable asbestos removal work
HSE has modified the ASB5 database and amendments to the expected finish date on your notification (ASB5) can now only be made within the notification period.
It is no longer possible to extend the finish date if the existing notification period has ended.
What should I do?
Continue to plan your removal work as accurately as you can
(including the time needed to carry out the four-stage clearance) and submit a notification (ASB5) to HSE, or the appropriate enforcing authority, with the expected finish date.
If you need to extend the expected finish date If the expected finish date changes, amend the notification on the ASB5 system without delay and before the existing finish date expires.
What do I do if the notification period has finished?
Remember, ALU expects high standards of site management and organisation. Requests to extend the duration of the work after the expected finish date has passed should be rare and isolated.
Make the site safe and contact ALU using this email address asbestos-unit@hse.gov.uk.
In the email:
• Provide the new expected finish date
• Provide a copy of the original notification
• Provide a clear explanation of why you couldn’t make the change within the notification period.
An ALU licence assessor will review information supplied and will either agree to a short extension or, where the remaining work is likely to be significant, ask you to submit a new notification. ALU will send you an email to confirm the short extension or other action agreed. Remember that details of your request will be recorded and considered during your licence renewal assessment when assessing your management arrangements.
What if I can’t update the finish date because of a database error or other HSE computer problem? Please check your own connections and systems are fully operational. Try updating the date on another machine or device.
If you have encountered an error with the HSE ASB5 database before the expected finish date contact ALU on asbestos-unit@hse. gov.uk. Supply evidence (eg a time and date marked screenshot) of the error you encountered.
To avoid errors, we recommend you allow sufficient time to extend the notification period and avoid last-minute updates. Note that HSE systems are sometimes down for short periods over weekends.
DSK Environmental is a family-run business with more than 15 years experience in the Asbestos Industry.
Keeping you safe is our top priority. Our high quality service offers peace of mind that we meet all hazardous waste removal and fire protective regulations.
Every home owner, business owner or duty holder can trust us to remediate and advise on their premises, inline with all statutory regulations and legislation.
a family
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Appeal after dock worker’s asbestosrelated death
The widow of a dockyard worker has appealed to his former colleagues to support an investigation into his death.
Raymond Lewis died from mesothelioma, an asbestos-related cancer, having worked at the Port of Tilbury, in Essex, for 27 years.
His wife, Carol, said she was seeking witness evidence confirming the presence of asbestos in building roofs at the dockyard.
Mrs Lewis believed her 89-yearold husband’s work as a sheeter for the Port of London Authority led to him dying of the disease in December 2023.
Mr Lewis died following a series of inconclusive tests regarding his ill health, and his true cause of death was only uncovered during a post-mortem examination.
He had worked on roof coverings and related fittings in his role at the dockyard from 1961 until 1988 and lived in Tilbury.
Mr Lewis worked at the Port of Tilbury between 1961 and 1988
Leigh Day solicitors said it was representing Mrs Lewis in her appeal to find people who may have been aware of the presence of asbestos at the port, or who knew Mr Lewis.
“Raymond told his family how he sawed asbestos sheets to size for roofs of buildings at Tilbury Docks,” personal injury solicitor Claire Spearpoint said.
“He passed before his diagnosis was confirmed and any evidence could be taken.
“We would like to speak to anyone who worked for the Port of London Authority at Tilbury between 1961 and 1988.”
