01279 213 600
01279 213 600
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) sets out what must happen if asbestos is found, or accidentally disturbed. It supports compliance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and is relevant to employers, the self-employed, and those responsible for premises where asbestos-containing materials may be present.
Asbestos exposure remains a serious health risk because airborne fibres are linked to life-limiting diseases, including mesothelioma and lung cancer. A key message is that asbestos is not always easy to recognise and cannot be confirmed by appearance alone.
If you encounter materials you suspect may contain asbestos, stop work immediately. Prevent further disturbance by isolating the area, displaying a clear warning notice, and keeping others away. Report the issue promptly to the person in control of the site or building, and arrange for the material to be sampled and analysed by a competent party.
Our asbestos surveys can confirm the presence, quantity and risks of asbestos quickly and efficiently. We provide interim reports with instant, real-time results using our asbestos management system.
If asbestos is confirmed, the required controls depend on the type of material, its condition, and the scale of the work. In some situations it may be appropriate to assume the highest-risk asbestos is present and apply the strictest controls from the outset, including using a licensed contractor where required. Any confirmed finding should be recorded and the asbestos management plan updated.
If asbestos has been damaged and fibres may have been released, it must be dealt with quickly and under under controlled conditions. Emergency procedures should already be in place and followed without delay. This includes warning anyone who may be affected, excluding non-essential people from the area, identifying the cause, and regaining control as soon as possible.
Anyone who may have been exposed without suitable respiratory protection should leave the area immediately, taking care not to spread contamination. Decontamination may be required for people, clothing, and equipment, and any contaminated waste must be handled and disposed of correctly.
The guidance distinguishes between lower-risk materials that are firmly bound and in good condition, and higher-risk materials that can release fibres more readily. Small-scale clean-up of some lower-risk materials may be possible without a licensed contractor. However, higher-risk materials such as lagging, loose fill, sprayed coatings, or larger releases of asbestos insulating board must be dealt with by licensed asbestos contractors.
This document should be used as part of a wider asbestos management approach, alongside training, competent planning, and pre-work checks. It is particularly relevant to maintenance teams and tradespeople who may encounter hidden asbestos during routine tasks.
By setting out clear steps for decision-making, isolation, decontamination, and escalation to licensed contractors where necessary, the guidance helps organisations respond appropriately to unexpected asbestos situations, reduce the risk of exposure, and demonstrate compliance with UK health and safety duties.
The full document is here.
