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UK News - Breaking news in the field of health and safety
Contractor fined for tackling asbestos containing.....
Contractor fined for tackling asbestos containing material without precaution
A self-employed contractor, _____ ___, has been prosecuted and fined £7,500, with £4,500 costs, at Derby Crown Court for tackling fascia boarding at Buxton's Devonshire Library with a crowbar without suitable precautions for this work being in place, thereby exposing the public and his employees to the amosite asbestos contained in it.
He had initially pleaded not guilty at the Magistrates' Court to charges under s.2(1) and 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 for failure to ensure the health safety and welfare at work of employees, failing to provide a safe system of work for the removal of asbestos containing materials, and under r.5 of the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2002, but changed his plea to guilty before the Crown Court.
Comment:
"We hope that this case highlights the asbestos management responsibilities of builders and those who manage buildings. It is vital that they assume the presence of asbestos materials, carry out a risk assessment and put a robust management plan in place. We have guidance and information freely available at the council." - Councillor, and Leader of High Peak Borough Council.
16.08.06
