Do You Have To Notify HSE If Removing Asbestos In Sussex?

If youre planning to remove asbestos from your property in Sussex, you may be wondering if you need to notify the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) before carrying out the work. Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex are a licensed asbestos removal company in Sussex who would like to guide you through the process and help you understand what steps you need to take to ensure safety and compliance.

The Need for Notification

As far as the law is concerned, any work that involves asbestos may require notification to the HSE. However, the degree of notification required will depend on various factors, including the type and quantity of asbestos materials to be removed, the duration of the project, and the level of risk posed by the work.

The HSE defines two situations in which youd require notification:

1. Licensed work
2. Non-licensed work

If you want to remove any asbestos materials that are classified as licensable, you must notify the HSE before the project commences. Licensable asbestos materials include most high-risk materials, such as thermal insulation, sprayed coatings, and asbestos insulation board.

On the other hand, if youre planning to remove only low-risk asbestos materials, such as asbestos cement (AC) and vinyl sheeting, you dont need to notify the HSE. This type of work is classified as non-licensed.

The Essentials of Asbestos Removal

Regardless of whether the work is licensed or non-licensed, certain essentials must be observed to ensure safety and compliance. For instance, you need to ensure that your contractor has the necessary expertise, equipment, and materials to deal with asbestos safely.

Each contractor will have their own unique asbestos tool kit or set of equipment. This includes PPE, decontamination equipment and specialist asbestos removal equipment.

Interestingly, removing asbestos yourself or using a non-licensed contractor may be cost-saving, however, significantly risking your health, wallet, and reputation in the process. Unlicensed work may result in the release of asbestos fibers into the air, which can be extremely hazardous and dangerous. Therefore, it is always encouraged to refer to a licensed contractor during asbestos removal.

Why Use a Licensed Contractor?

A licensed asbestos removal contractor has been trained in the proper handling, removal, and disposal of asbestos. They are licensed to carry out work on all types of asbestos-containing materials, including high-risk materials.

They have a thorough understanding of the relevant regulations and guidelines and are equipped with the necessary tools and equipment. They will also put suitable control measures in place to protect workers and others from exposure to asbestos fibers.

The contractor will also provide you with a waste consignment note which clearly outlines the nature and destination of the waste, giving you peace of mind that your waste is being disposed of correctly. The note is a legal duty placed upon the contractor that needs the seal of the environment agency.

Do you still need to notify if using a licensed contractor?

Yes, if you plan to carry out licensed work, you will still need to notify the HSE before the work begins, and a Type H notification must be submitted at least 14 days before the work is due to start. The notification must be in writing, and its purpose is to ensure that the HSE can carry out relevant inspections and provide guidance where necessary.

Once notification has been received and validated by the HSE, the licensed contractor can then carry out the work, ensuring that all asbestos is safely removed and disposed of.

Examples of non-licensed work

If youre planning to carry out non-licensed asbestos work, you dont need to notify the HSE. This work typically involves activities like:

Repairing damage to asbestos cement, such as drilling holes Removing ceiling tiles containing asbestos Removing asbestos cement sheets or panels Replacing vinyl floor tiles containing asbestos

When a contractor is needed

If youre not qualified, experienced, or confident in carrying out asbestos removal work yourself, youll need to hire a licensed contractor. They will have the necessary expertise and experience to remove asbestos safely, minimizing exposure to asbestos fibers.

However, if the work is minor and you feel comfortable carrying out the work yourself, you must strictly follow the guidelines outlined in Health and Safety Executives Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. It is also essential to have the right equipment such as a P3 half mask respirator with bespoke asbestos filter cartridges.

Use of HSE in Sussex and South East England

The HSE has a regional office in Sussex and covers a wide range of areas in the South East of England. Their role is to provide guidance and support to businesses and individuals regarding the safe handling and removal of asbestos-containing materials. In case of any queries regarding notification requirements, it is best to get in touch with the HSE to discuss the specifics of your project.

Contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, our top priority is your safety. We provide affordable asbestos removal services to clients in Sussex, using licensed contractors with over two decades of experience in the industry. We are a leading asbestos removal company in Sussex, with a track record of providing quality services and having the necessary HSE licenses to complete our work safely and timely.

If youre in Sussex and require asbestos removal services, get in touch with us at 01273 978238 or email us at [email protected]. You can visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-sussex.co.uk for more information about our services.