1. Identify whether asbestos is present and determine type and condition:
a. People responsible for maintaining non-domestic premises have a duty to manage asbestos and should provide information on asbestos location and condition.
b. If no or limited information, you should have the area surveyed with material samples analysed.
c. Alternatively, assume that any material disturbed contains asbestos and take appropriate precautions for the highest risk situation.
2. Carry out a risk assessment:
a. Investigate possibilities of carrying out work while avoiding the risk of asbestos exposure.
b. If not possible, identify who might be at risk and the level of exposure.
c. Decide what methods are necessary to effectively control risks.
3. Decide if the work should be carried out by a licensed contractor:
a. Most asbestos removal work requires a HSE licensed contractor.
b. All work with sprayed asbestos coatings and lagging, most work with asbestos insulation and asbestos insulating boards (AIB) require a license.
c. Identify if your work needs a licensed contractor.
d. Find a licensed contractor or apply for a license.