NEW regulations have come into force which are designed to protect construction workers from asbestos while they are refurbishing commercial properties.
The Control of Asbestos at work Regulations place the onus on
commercial property managers to monitor asbestos products in their buildings and ensure that hazardous asbestos is removed and replaced
by safe alternatives.
Construction Minister Brian Wilson said: "These new regulations will ensure that any old, dangerous asbestos in properties is brought to their attention."
"Above all, this legislation gives construction workers the right to know."
The Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations require workplace
managers with maintenance and repair responsibilities to ascertain
whether their buildings contain asbestos and if it presents a risk.
Around half a million premises are believed to still contain
asbestos, which puts a wide range of workers potentially at risk
including electricians, plumbers, carpenters, joiners and builders.
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