An asbestos register, also known as an asbestos risk register, is a vital paper or electronic document which holds key information about the presence (or presumed presence) of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) within a building or premises.
A key part of an Asbestos Management Plan, asbestos registers must be updated regularly (at least once a year, minimum) to ensure all building users are made aware of any ACMs and their current conditions.
Keep on reading to learn about asbestos registers, including what they contain, who has the duty to update the register, legal requirements and more!
What Does an Asbestos Register Contain?
According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the information of an asbestos survey report will inform what is included in the asbestos risk register. As a minimum, it should contain the following details specific to the property:
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- all known and presumed ACMs
- the type of ACM
- how much asbestos there is and its condition, including dates of the original and last inspection
- the potential of each ACM to release fibres (a material assessment) and the likelihood of disturbance (a priority assessment) during the day-to-day running of the building
- where asbestos is presumed to be located if the surveyor has been unable to access areas
For a more thorough assessment, it may also be useful to include photographs of the ACMs to confirm their location and condition, actions and due dates, evidence of completed actions and condition assessment due dates.
In addition to the above, a risk assessment must be included which will help you to prioritise any present ACMs which require remedial action. This assessment will also take into account the likelihood of the ACMs being disturbed by any building occupants, maintenance and so on.
Who Has the Duty to Update the Register?
As defined by the Control of Asbestos Regulations, 2012 it is the responsibility of the building’s dutyholder to manage, update and maintain the asbestos register affiliated with their premises. This applies to all non-domestic premises across a wide range of industries, such as commercial, industrial, leisure, retail and so on. Shared spaces within multi-occupancy accommodation may also apply.
How Often Should an Asbestos Register Be Updated?
At a minimum, it is recommended that asbestos registers should be updated annually to ensure that regular checks are being carried out to inspect the condition of any ACMs. However, there are a number of instances where the register may have to be updated prior to this, including but not limited to:
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- the discovery of any new ACMs
- change in condition of any existing ACMs
- any refurbishment and demolition works which are due to take place
Is it a Legal Requirement?
For non-domestic premises, as listed above, it is indeed a legal requirement for the dutyholder to have an updated asbestos register in place for the safety of any building occupants, maintenance workers and more.
Though not a legal requirement for domestic premises, an asbestos register may be provided if you have an Asbestos Management Plan in place and is therefore a helpful document to have, should any works be due to take place.
Get in Touch Today!
Though we’ve only answered a few common questions about asbestos registers, our asbestos consultants are more than happy to answer any further queries you may have. At Pillars Environmental, we’re experts in the compliant and safe surveying of asbestos-containing materials for both commercial and residential properties across England. Get in touch with us today for your free quote.
