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Our January 2003 Property Digest described the new Regulations and pointed out their effect. Since then there has been a great deal of information circulated by various organisations and companies. Not all of this tells the whole story.
The Regulations affect all non-domestic buildings and includes the common areas (e.g. corridors, hallways, roofspaces etc.) in residential property that is rented. Dutyholders must produce, maintain and update an asbestos materials register and implement a management plan. These must be in place by 21st May 2004.
You do not have to remove asbestos. Asbestos is only dangerous when it is disturbed. Duty holders need only: merely manage or control it.
You do not need to bring in licensed contractors or consultants. You can do it yourself! The Regulations allow you to inspect you own building and assume that materials contain asbestos. Inspections will have to be made on a regular basis. Guidance is available on the Health and Safety Executive website www.hsebooks.co.uk.
The purpose of the Regulations is to protect maintenance workers and others from asbestos fibres. You should concentrate on practicalities of achieving this. Remember that not all asbestos is the same. Only high risk materials require a licensed contractor.
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