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remains a balance between addressing a hazardous past and forging a safer future.
While outright bans and decades of campaigning have reduced its prevalence, the dangers of legacy asbestos in public buildings and housing stock remain. We are seeing a surge of public interest following the recent parliamentary debates on the national removal strategy and new guidance from the HSE concerning risk assessments in older properties. These developments signal both progress and the urgent need for cohesive, well-funded action.
Across construction, demolition and asbestos removal industries, the call for innovation is louder than ever. From improved PPE to advances in AI-assisted detection, our sector is embracing tools that not only enhance safety but streamline compliance. But innovation must go hand-in-hand with education. As the next generation enters the field, we must ensure training, accreditation and knowledge sharing are at the heart of every business.
In this issue, we spotlight emerging best practices, challenges and the increasing pressure to respond to public sector backlogs. We also speak to leading industry voices who are calling for firmer timelines and accountability in the removal of asbestos from UK buildings.
We present two interviews in this issue – having been interviewed by Asbestos Hub many moons ago, James Johnson, Managing Director of J&L Recruitment, returns to update us on all that is going on at his Suffolk-based asbestos recruitment business in SUPPLIER TALK. The Contractor Check-In features PJ Mooney of Gravity Group, based in Wexford in the Republic of Ireland.
Looking ahead, we are thrilled to celebrate excellence at the British Asbestos Awards, taking place on 5 September 2025 in London. This prestigious event shines a light on the individuals, teams and organisations that go above and beyond in our industry.
Thank you for joining us in this season’s issue. Let’s continue the conversation, challenge the status quo and strive for a future where asbestos no longer poses its silent threat.
Ben Chambers Publisher, Asbestos Hub ben@chambers.media
ASESA training, accredited by the IATP 6
ASESA NEWS: Licence renewal addition –Personal Monitoring focus
SUPPLIER TALK
With J&L Recruitment’s James Johnson 22 EVENTS
CLR – The UK’s leading event for land management and remediation
AMI NEWS:
AMI reports significant growth and new initiatives at Annual General Meeting 8
IATP NEWS:
Female Analyst Working Group (FAWG)
CONTRACTOR CHECK-IN
With PJ Mooney, founder of Gravity Group
GENERAL NEWS
DSK Environmental visits Royal Navy’s HMS Prince of Wales
20th ADAO Asbestos Awareness and Prevention Conference 12
Digital Construction Week announces seminar programme for its landmark 10th edition Why attend DCW 2025? ASBESTONOMYRegistration now open 10 18 26
ASBESTONOMY NEWS
Asbestos discovery halts Berlin stadium demolition
Crocidolite asbestos exposure at damaged Japanese hotel
International workers memorial day: A call for action
Nationwide asbestos removal iniative launched
Asbestos contamination in Scotland’s drinking water sparks health fears
South Africa’s asbestos legacy: A silent crisis
HSE NEWS:
Builder sentenced for unlicensed asbestos removal
46
Contractor sentenced after uncontrolled spread of asbestos
Manufacturing firms reminded of asbestos responsibilities
The licence renewal process has been fairly static for some time now, but last month the HSE added a third standard question prompt in addition to the two existing prompts for sections 2 to 9 as follows:
Personal exposure levels or other monitoring undertaken over the licensing period, including underlying issues/root causes and
how you have used your findings to improve health and safety/asbestos management.
So in each section where PM has been used to help inform decisions, you need to include this, so for example a TNA for an operative in the training and competence section following a higher PM result.
HSE have done this as they don’t
ASESA has a busy summer of training for members to take advantage of.
Alongside our weekly refreshers for operatives and supervisors, and bi-monthly manager refreshers, we have a two-day New Manager later this month, taking place on Wednesday 28 and Thursday 29 May. And next month, we have a three-day New Supervisor course from Tuesday 10 June.
ASESA is also rolling out our Personal Monitoring workshop, which will provide in depth knowledge of this critical area for supervisors and office staff.
With the introduction of the new Personal Monitoring prompt into the Licence renewal standard question prompts, this is very timely. This should be available to book by the end of May.
feel like the industry is taking full advantage of the potential learning from PM. So the message is please review what you are doing to try to identify any area where you could further enhance this important topic.
And don’t forget, Licence renewal support is included with your membership to ASESA, so get in touch to book us in.
The Asbestos Management Institute recently concluded its third Annual General Meeting, marking another year of notable progress for the organisation. The 10 April virtual event attracted more than 160 industry professionals, demonstrating the institute’s growing prominence within the asbestos management sector.
In his opening address, AMI President Eddie Strong reported encouraging membership growth, with numbers rising to 98 – an increase of 26 new members since the previous AGM. This steady expansion reflects the institute’s increasing influence among industry professionals.
Strong also highlighted his new role representing AMI at the Asbestos Network Technical Working Group, ensuring that members’ perspectives are considered alongside those of other key industry stakeholders.
The institute has established valuable partnerships to enhance professional development opportunities. Through collaboration with ATAC, two
significant membership pathways have been created. First, professionals who complete RSPH analyst or surveyor qualifications can now join as associate members. Additionally, a new membership category conferring CPQ-AMI status has been established for those who complete the RSPH laboratory and project manager qualification.
This new designation serves an important purpose beyond recognition, aligning with UKAS and Lab 30 requirements for competent person certification and establishing a clear professional advancement pathway within the industry.
The institute has introduced several initiatives to provide additional value to members. Companies with at least two AMI members can now display a corporate logo, demonstrating their commitment to professional standards. CPD opportunities have been expanded through articles in ARCA news, and a prostate cancer testing initiative has been launched in association with the Graham Fulford Charitable Trust, with the
first event scheduled for 22 May at ARCA’s offices in Burton-uponTrent.
Members can also access free health, safety and HR advice via telephone through a partnership with Croner, with discounts available on additional services. Looking ahead, the institute plans to expand its reach by including supervisors from removal companies with competency-based memberships.
The meeting featured informative presentations from industry experts. Lindsay Baldwin from the Health and Safety Executive’s Asbestos Policy Unit provided insights on three policy areas currently under review: clarifying confusion surrounding Notifiable Non-Licensed Work, considering mandatory UKAS accreditation for surveyors, and addressing potential conflicts of interest in clearance procedures.
Martin Saunders presented valuable research findings on witnessed four-stage clearance procedures, covering important aspects including equipment checks to prevent contamination
transfer, appropriate RPE selection for analysts, and effective assessment techniques.
A forward-looking presentation by John Richards of Asbestos Information Certificate highlighted the development of the National Asbestos Strategy. This innovative initiative employs machine learning and natural language processing technology to create a comprehensive national database. The system can process approximately one million lines of survey data daily and categorise materials according to risk level. Plans include linking this database to Ordnance Survey’s Unique Property Reference Numbers to establish a complete national register.
The leadership election resulted in all nominees being elected unopposed. Eddie Strong continues as President, supported by Tony Church as Vice President and Christian Jones as Treasurer. The Council will also include Duncan Rudall, Scott Murray, and Robert Burley as members.
As the meeting concluded, Strong expressed appreciation to all presenters for their valuable contributions and acknowledged the work of Steve Sadley and staff members behind the scenes. He reminded attendees about the upcoming PSA testing event and encouraged awareness about prostate cancer.
With its expanding membership base, enhanced qualifications framework, and growing industry influence, the Asbestos Management Institute is wellpositioned to play an increasingly significant role in shaping the future of asbestos management in Great Britain.
Given the institute’s rapid growth and expanding industry influence, professionals working in asbestos management are encouraged to consider AMI membership. The organisation offers clear professional development pathways, valuable networking opportunities, and practical benefits that support career advancement and business success.
“The strength of our institute comes from the collective expertise and commitment of our members,” notes President Eddie Strong. “As we continue to grow, we enhance our ability to shape
industry standards and advocate for best practices in asbestos management.”
Those interested in joining the AMI can find membership information and application details on the institute’s website at ami.uk.com. The organisation welcomes enquiries from asbestos contracts managers, LARCs senior managers, analysts, surveyors, laboratory managers, and other professionals working in asbestos management.
All presentations from the AGM are available on the AMI website for review and sharing with colleagues.
especially regarding working relationships between analysts and contractors. As with any industry, misunderstandings about each other’s roles often lead to friction on site, and addressing these issues could foster better collaboration and safety. Several key friction points were identified:
• Company Policy Statements: Advocating for clear policies that support analyst safety and ensure accountability.
• Safety Guidance for Analysts During Four-Stage Clearance (4SC): Offering guidance that goes beyond technical aspects to keep analysts safe in challenging environments. In addition, the group explored ways to improve training syllabi,
• Enclosure Standards: When enclosures fail to meet the required standard for Stage 2 Visual Inspections, analysts face challenges. Should licensed contractors also be trained in visual inspection techniques to ensure better preparation before the handover?
• Inspection Time: Analysts are sometimes perceived as taking too long during visual inspections. However, these timings specified in HSG248 and monitored by UKAS. Do contractors understand these strict time constraints?
• Challenging Working Environments: The pressure of tight schedules and difficult working conditions can create tension. Should analysts and contractors receive training on managing stress and deescalating conflicts?
In response to these concerns, the FAWG has been reaching out to the various industry training bodies to see if amendments can be made to existing course syllabi and address some of the topics listed above. We are proud to say that the IATP (Independent Asbestos Training Providers ltd) has been the first to revise its training syllabi and kindly takes on board the points suggested by the FAWG, using them to address several issues, including:
• Clarifying cleaning and clearance requirements, including the four-stage clearance process and reoccupation certification.
• Emphasising the importance of professionalism, respect for all site visitors, and training on deescalation techniques.
• Outlining specific obligations of analysts, such as their right to issue failed certificates, limitations on cleaning tasks, and expected inspection timelines.
These updates, although relatively simple, represent a significant step toward creating a safer, more respectful environment for analysts and contractors. By improving training and fostering better communication between analysts and contractors, the asbestos industry can move toward greater safety and equity for all workers, and the FAWG is incredibly appreciative of IATP’s support and collaboration.
“We are proud to say that the IATP (Independent Asbestos Training Providers ltd) have been the first to revise their training syllabi and kindly take on board the points suggested by the FAWG, using them to address several issues”
How did Gravity Group start and how has it evolved since then?
Gravity Group began with a clear mission: to raise the standard of asbestos remediation and environmental contracting in Ireland. I founded the company with more than 15 years of handson experience in the asbestos sector, so the company was built on a foundation of deep technical expertise and a strong commitment to safety and compliance.
From day one, asbestos removal was a core service. I saw a gap in the market for a company that could not only deliver technically challenging work to the highest standards but also provide clients with clear, honest communication and a complete end-to-end service. Gravity Group was created to fill that gap – with the agility of a young company and the experience of an established player.
As the company grew, so too
did its capabilities. What started as a focused asbestos removal service has new evolved into a multidisciplinary operation offering all types of asbestos removal, asbestos roof replacement, asbestos land remediation, mould removal and lead paint removal. Our evolution has been driven by client demand and our proactive approach to solving problems
“The Heiton Steel building, Ashfield. When it came to safely replacing its existing 10,000m2 asbestos cement roof, speed of deliverance and minimum downtime were key factors”
What makes Gravity Group different?
We are a one stop shop –completing all works in-house ourselves. Our asbestos removal operatives are also trained roofers and therefore our clients are not required to liaise with multiple contractors on projects, ensuring a seamless and coordinated project. Gravity looks after all scaffold, safety netting, craneage, asbestos removal and reroofing internally. Additionally, our commitment to health and safety, combined with our extensive experience and certified expertise, sets us apart. We offer a comprehensive service and are recognised for our rapid response to asbestos-related issues across various sectors.
What are Gravity Group’s values as a company?
Our core values are Generosity, Reward, Accountability and Versatility. We actively contribute
to local initiatives, reward our employees, take ownership of our work and adapt to various project requirements with unparalleled versatility. Above all else safety is of the utmost importance and ensuring that our valued employees get home safe from work each day.
How do you gain business and spread the word about your services?
We gain business through various channels but mainly Google Ads, social media with a focus on LinkedIn and via organic means such as the website, phone calls and of course our trusted repeat clients. Our reputation for quality and safety has also contributed to our growth as client referrals steadily come in. Our portfolio includes work for major clients like Intel, Pfizer, OPW, HSE, Grafton Group Plc and various county councils.
Tell us about workforce development.
We invest heavily in training, ensuring all employees undergo regular multi-disciplinary training and medical examinations. This commitment to development ensures our team maintains the highest industry standards, directly benefiting our clients through safe and efficient service delivery. We have long-standing employees who had no experience starting with us and whom we have natured and developed over time. If an employee has enthusiasm and a good work ethic, we will support them in growing and progressing within the company.
Tell us about your team and working culture.
Our team is the backbone of Gravity Group and we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative, inclusive and highperformance culture. From day
one, we’ve focused on building a workforce that’s not just technically skilled, but also aligned with our values of Generosity, Reward, Accountability and Versatility.
We maintain a management structure that encourages open communication and empowers team members at all levels to contribute ideas and take ownership of their roles. This culture of accountability and trust creates a motivated workforce that’s committed to excellence and continuous improvement.
We reward initiative and loyalty – many of our team members have grown with the company, taking on more responsibility and developing into leadership roles. We also offer structured development pathways, ensuring all staff receive ongoing training, CPD and the opportunity to upskill in new technologies and techniques, especially around health and safety best practices. Safety, teamwork and respect
are at the heart of everything we do. Whether it’s on a high-risk asbestos removal project or in our day-to-day operations, our team supports each other to deliver consistently high standards. We also place a strong emphasis on well-being and work-life balance, believing that happy, supported staff are the key to long-term success.
What are the biggest technological and regulatory developments you have seen in the industry and what do you envisage will be the future game changers?
Over the years, we’ve seen major advancements in both the technology used in asbestos remediation and the regulations that govern our work. Improvements in safety equipment, negative pressure systems, RPE and real-time air monitoring have significantly
increased both the efficiency and safety of asbestos removal operations. The introduction of drone surveys has also transformed how we inspect and assess complex roofs and structures, offering safer and faster alternatives to manual inspections.
From a regulatory perspective, the industry is heading into a new era with the forthcoming EU Asbestos Directive, which is set to significantly tighten exposure limits and reporting obligations across member states. We view this as a positive and necessary step that will raise standards and enhance worker protection across the industry.
As a company, we are already preparing for these changes by reviewing our procedures, investing in training and upgrading our monitoring capabilities. We believe that staying ahead of regulatory shifts like this is essential to maintaining our position as a trusted leader in asbestos remediation.
How do you see the asbestos industry and Gravity Group developing in the medium term? We foresee increased demand for comprehensive asbestos management solutions and stricter regulations. Gravity Group aims to stay ahead by continuously updating our practices and expanding our services to meet these evolving requirements.
Tell us about any involvement Gravity Group has in the community or Corporate Social Responsibility.
We actively participate in local initiatives and sponsor a wide array of local sports teams and clubs, demonstrating our commitment to building positive long-term relationships within the communities we serve.
Do you have any notable projects in progress or in planning?
While we cannot disclose specific projects due to confidentiality agreements, we are continually engaged in significant asbestos
removal and remediation projects across Ireland, reflecting our ongoing commitment to excellence.
How do you envisage Gravity Group in five to 10 years?
Having recently acquired another asbestos removal company, Gravity is on track to expand its market share even further and we aim to continue to expand our services, embrace new technologies and continue leading the industry in safety and quality. Our vision includes growing our team and client base while maintaining our core values and commitment to excellence.
And how about you?
I started my career in construction from very humble beginnings, as a labourer when I left school, in my uncle’s small cladding company. Fast forward to the present day and through a lot of hard work and dedication, I now own and run a multi-ICE award winning, ARCA and
ISO accredited asbestos removal company where I am extremely hands on, project managing all of Gravity’s large scale asbestos reroofing projects.
I was heavily influenced by my uncle growing up and looked on with admiration as he juggled the many roles required of the project manager. I gleamed as much information as possible from him in my early years and quickly progressed to a more senior role within his company, managing and running small reroofing jobs.
I relished the responsibility this gave me and loved seeing my small jobs progress from inception to completion. Where other people shied away from issues and responsibility, I thrived in this environment and loved problem solving and figuring out solutions to the many problems encountered on a typical construction site – an attitude I still possess to this day. I will be forever grateful for the knowledge and experience this
opportunity provided me with. This time spent with my uncle helped mould my work ethic and attitude and it undoubtedly shaped the path to my current position.
As the recession hit in 2008 my uncle’s business, like so many construction companies, sadly closed its doors. It was shortly afterwards that I made the bold decision to start my own company. With barely enough work to keep myself and one small crew busy, we struggled on for a few years.
Perseverance prevailed and slowly I became busier. With my roofing background, I recognised a gap in the market and decided to focus all of my attention and resources on asbestos reroofing. I recognised early on that my strength lay in project management, dealing directly with my clients and site employees. To deliver the quality service I intended, this could not change. To facilitate this, I built a strong office team over the years to enable me to project manage Gravity’s large reroofing jobs.
When not project managing, I focus my attention on CPD and driving positive change in the business through innovation and technology. Aside from being acting PSCS, I am constantly adding to my catalogue of training tickets having a MEWP, Forklift, Teleporter, Excavator, Slinger, Banksman and Crane ticket to name a few.
When I get the opportunity, I enjoy nothing more than being hands on and sharing my knowledge with my team and I feel that this attitude has garnered a mutual relationship of respect over the years.
I feel very proud of our exceptional employee retention rate in Gravity and the fact that the same few guys who started with me during the recession, are still by my side to this day.
Aside from the practical courses, I have taken extensive courses in asbestos and environmental management and I am an accredited Asbestos Removal Managing Director and Asbestos Removal Project Manager.
DSK Environmental was honoured to be invited on board the HMS Prince of Wales, one of the Royal Navy’s two Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carriers. Kirsty Budenbender’s brother, Petty Officer, John Paul (JP) Stevenson organised the visit and while there the DSK team met a few of the RN football team, which DSK is very proud to sponsor.
JP joined the Royal Navy in 2008 as an aircraft engineer serving at RAF Wittering before
joining the Royal Marines and eventually the HMS Prince of Wales. In 2021 he was promoted to Petty Officer of the Avionics workshop. “We are incredibly proud of all his achievements,” said Kirsty.
Captain Will Blackett invited the team into his quarters and expressed his gratitude for the company’s sponsorship. He joined the Royal Navy in 2001 and most recently worked in the Ministry of Defence where he was responsible
“We were privileged to get a full tour and see the pure majesty of the ship”
Dr Irving Selikoff
The 2025 Asbestos Awareness and Prevention Conference (AAPC) marks a historic milestone as the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) celebrates 20 years of evidence-based advocacy, scientific engagement, and global community building. This year’s conference is especially meaningful, as it builds on the foundation Dr Irving Selikoff laid with his landmark 1964 conference in New York City – the first to expose the deadly dangers of asbestos to the world.
Returning to NYC, ADAO proudly honours that legacy while advancing today’s urgent prevention, policy, and treatment efforts. We envision the 20th AAPC as a living compendium of the best in asbestos science, public health and legal reform – connecting our shared work’s past, present, and future to end asbestos-related diseases.
Hosted by the ADAO – the leader in evidence-based advocacy to prevent asbestos-caused diseases and shape responsible policy – we invite global experts, first responders, scientists, policymakers and advocates to confront the legacy of asbestos, elevate actionable solutions and drive forward the future of public health and justice.
Conference highlights and outcomes
Set in New York City – a place where the legacy of asbestos spans generations, from busy shipyards and ageing public infrastructure to the ongoing health crisis following 9/11 – the 20th AAPC will bring
together World Trade Center medical experts, firefighters, researchers, survivors, and advocates. Together, we will explore historical and ongoing sources of exposure and examine emerging clinical and legal models to advance a national agenda for asbestos prevention, grounded in truth, science and justice for all.
These outcomes will inform a reinvigorated call for federal action and legislative reform, reaffirming the need to eliminate asbestos use, close enforcement loopholes, and establish a coordinated national strategy to mitigate legacy exposure in schools, public buildings, and disaster zones. We must support the communities already affected while preventing future harm through bold, sciencedriven policies and transparent oversight.
Academic conference programme will include:
• Legacy exposure and public
Informed by the 9/11 health crisis, this session will feature World Trade Center medical experts, first responders, and researchers exploring the long-term impacts of asbestos exposure and models for monitoring, care, and compensation, with a specific emphasis on our brave first responders.
• Breaking new ground in policy and prevention ADAO will spotlight the alarming findings of recent wildfires in Los Angeles and the 2024 NYC Comptroller audit, which revealed that over 80% of public schools known to contain asbestos had not been inspected, despite federal legal requirements.
• Evidence-based legal and clinical models
Presentations will showcase
cutting-edge research and policy proposals, including innovative frameworks for diagnosing, treating and holding accountable those responsible for asbestosrelated diseases.
• Policy and prevention in the 21st Century Sessions will explore a century of policy shifts, focusing on prevention setbacks and regulatory rollbacks under the current administration. Experts
will share strategies to defend and strengthen protections through science, law, and public engagement.
• Candlelight vigil at the World Trade Center Memorial
Before the conference officially begins, we will gather on Friday 12 September at the World Trade Center Memorial for a candlelight vigil to honour asbestos victims, with special emphasis on our nation’s first
responders.
• Awards dinner and honouree tributes
Following the vigil, join us for an evening of recognition and inspiration, including keynote remarks, honouree presentations and special performances.
Our conference is made possible by the generosity of donors and sponsors. We are deeply grateful to our Platinum Sponsors, Dean Omar Branham Shirley LLP, and Simmons Hanly Conroy LLP; Gold Sponsors, The Gori Law Firm, and Motley Rice LLC; and Silver Sponsor, Early, Lucarelli, Sweeney & Meisenkothen.
Carrying forward a legacy of truth, science, and action to end asbestos-related diseases
Registration opens in June
Give us quick elevator pitch to your potential clients.
We are a 10-year established asbestos recruitment agency. We’re the most accredited agency out there, we build on relationships with clients and our relationships with operatives to get the best out of everyone, to make going to work as enjoyable and safe as it can be.
Tell us about your journey to and with J&L Recruitment.
When I left school I went to work for Jewson. I ended up on an apprenticeship scheme and made my way up to a sales rep. I then got approached by SMH Products and I jumped on board as a regional salesperson. I worked in the Nottingham area, covering East Anglia and then I was asked to move to London,
Essex and Kent. After a few years I left to work for another recruitment company in the industry. I left there quite quickly, but I could see the opportunities so with Anglian Demolition’s backing, we set J&L Recruitment up and the rest is history.
The name J&L Recruitment comes from Johnson and [Jamie] Letch. Jamie was working for Windsor Waste at the time when they were building their incinerator and he had an opportunity to stay on with a view to running that. So I was left on my own but Jamie’s now been back with the business for about four or five years.
The business got quite big quite quickly. When we started out we had opportunities with Rilmac Asbestos Services and McGee Demolition, which is what helped
cement our place in the industry. Then John Fowler of Anglian saw a Ferrari that he wanted so I offered to buy him out to allow him to acquire it. Lee Storer stayed on a little bit longer, but I think when I bought him out he bought an Aston Martin. So lucky for me they both like cars. Sadly they weren’t in love with Fiat Pandas or Ford Escorts –might have been a bit cheaper. But they chose to invest in me, and that is what investments are all about.
Did you have technical asbestos experience yourself when you started the business? I’ve always done the sales, never
Tell us more about the training. What we find in our industry is, asbestos operatives have their training, they have their medical, all their face fits, mask test and CSCS card and basic site safety test. But basic training is overlooked every day – we never get asked for it and I think that’s incredible.
As soon as the guys have to lift the negative pressure unit out a van, it’s manual handling; as soon as they’ve got to go up a set of steps or a podium, it’s working at height. So we’ve developed our own manual handling course and our own working at height course and got them accredited by CPD.
We’ve put them on our website and anybody who wants to complete the training can do. If they’re working for J&L Recruitment they get it free of charge – we’ll always steer them towards doing it because the more training you have, the safer you’re going to be on site.
Anything we can do to better the industry, we will. We’re always talking to the likes of ARCA and ASESA. Obviously, we have limitations – we don’t manage
projects, we don’t manage safety, we’re just putting pegs in holes. But if we can make those pegs as smart as we possibly can, it’s going to make everything better for everyone.
You’ve mentioned labour shortages in the industry. What do you see as the causes of that? When Covid happened a lot of the chaps that had come in from abroad went back and didn’t return, and then the price of fuel went through the roof. A lot of asbestos operatives had been former coal miners from the north and those lads who were often prepared to travel for work didn’t travel anymore. The price of digs and accommodation has gone through the roof as well. Previously, if we were trying to get someone into somewhere for a week, we could find really good deals for as little as £15 or £20 a night. Nowadays, you’d do well to find anything for £40. All this has made operatives seek work more locally. Before Covid we were probably paying £130 a shift to asbestos operatives. Nowadays
we’re paying an absolute minimum of £180. The problem is, no one’s coming into the industry.
In the past a lorry driver might have a son and say, “Come on son, jump in the lorry with your dad. You’ll do this when you’re older, go and get your HGV, blah, blah, blah.” Anyone working in asbestos who has kids doesn’t want their kids going anywhere near the industry.
The apprenticeship scheme into the industry, I believe, has completely stopped. So you can no longer get an apprenticeship in asbestos or hazardous materials and companies don’t want to spend all the money training someone up to find out that they’re not suitable for the job. It’s a big commitment from a LARC to put them through a three-day training course for 500 quid, £100 for face fits, £150 for the medical and then buy a mask for £600 – it’s a huge expense. I do think industry associations should be doing more to open up these routes. I’m not saying they should be giving anything away but I definitely think it should be a talking point in the industry. If labour costs have increased by 50% in the last five years and people are unhappy paying the prices that they’re paying now, which I understand, it makes you wonder where we’re going to be in another five years.
And yet there’s still so much asbestos remaining in homes, commercial and public buildings. The government is being lobbied to get asbestos survey reports produced for all domestic, commercial and government buildings, similar to an Energy Performance Certificate. Probably about 20% of properties in the UK have been surveyed for asbestos, so as soon as this lobbying is effective, the asbestos industry is going to have another boom. The government is worried that they’ll have to find money to do all the asbestos removal projects, but the problem is going to be that there’s no infrastructure in asbestos – there’s not enough people to manage the load.
With decades of proven expertise, Omega Environmental Services has solidified its reputation as the go-to specialist for asbestos removal in power stations across the UK.
Our extensive portfolio of completed projects demonstrates our commitment to excellence, safety, and efficiency in undertaking some of the most complex asbestos removal tasks in the industry. With a total project value exceeding £100m+, Omega Environmental Services has consistently delivered exceptional results whilst prioritising safety and compliance with industry standards. Our capabilities and proven track record make us the “Power Station Power-House” in asbestos removal.
The leading event for professionals addressing environmental challenges through solutions for land remediation, soil contamination, and hazardous materials.
Be part of the future of the contamination, remediation and geotechnical sectors. This is where thousands of conversations, meetings and inspirational talks happen that shape the future of our sector.
The event is organised
in partnership with leading organisations including CL:AIRE, ARCA, UK & Ireland Spill Association, British Drilling Association and more, meaning you should be ready to connect with the biggest players and to access need to know insights.
In 2024, CLR welcomed 2,738 high-level attendees eager to discover cutting-edge technologies, lucrative investment opportunities, and crucial insights that elevated their operations.
Digital Construction Week (DCW) returns to Excel London on 4–5 June 2025 with its most impactful programme yet. As the UK’s leading event for digital innovation in the built environment, DCW brings together the best and brightest from across AECO, for two days of practical learning and idea sharing.
With 350+ speakers across 10 stages, DCW 2025 offers a packed agenda of meaningful
takeaways and deep dives into the topics that matter most to professionals across the built environment.
Programme highlights not to miss
Building the future: Case studies in designing with complexity
Gaganjit Singh – Zaha Hadid Architects
One of the world’s most iconic
design firms will demonstrate how advanced digital tools and parametric design principles can be used to solve architectural challenges. Attendees will gain:
• Insights into parametric design and its ability to streamline complex workflows,
• Lessons from real-world case studies showcasing digitallydriven architectural progress,
• A look at future trends shaping architectural technology.
Using what we have: The best means of saving carbon
Ellen Willis and Sagal Rooble –Chetwoods
This session highlights retrofit as the most effective strategy for reducing carbon in the built environment. It offers a practical roadmap, covering:
• Deconstruction audits and material reuse,
• Project RESTOR and lessons in component repurposing,
• Hands-on advice for delivering impactful, low-carbon retrofits that visitors can take back to their own projects.
The Manufacturers’ Information Hub: Live information management workshop
Alex Small (Tata Steel Europe), Brian Glancy (Manufacturers’ Information Hub), Cristina Sánchez Jiménez (Bovis), James Franklin (Kier Construction), Robert Barbour (Travis Perkins), Su Butcher (Just Practising)
This interactive session invites manufacturers, asset and facilities managers, and supply chain professionals to collaborate on challenges in managing construction product information. Attendees will:
• Learn about the goals and opportunities of the newly launched Manufacturers’ Information Hub,
• Participate in use case-based exercises to co-develop information management solutions,
• Explore how consistent data practices can benefit the entire supply chain.
Post-match analysis: The Everton Stadium Project
Paul Drayton – Laing O’Rourke
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the delivery of the new Everton Stadium – a 52,000-seat venue built on a reclaimed dock.
Delivered on time and on
budget, the project embraced digital delivery from day one. Attendees will discover:
• How Laing O’Rourke’s full digital build approach helped reduce risk and increase certainty,
• Key learnings from one of the UK’s most ambitious stadium builds,
• How digital tools supported seamless coordination and delivery.
Digital twin or digital bin?
Dan Rossiter (BSI) and Vicki Reynolds (One Creative Environments)
This crowd-favourite debate returns with a fresh twist. In a gameshow-style format, leading voices from across the industry will battle it out to determine whether a series of case studies qualify as true digital twins – or belong in the digital bin. Expect lively discussion, valuable insight, and plenty of audience participation.
These are just a few examples of the stand-out programme DCW has planned for this year, with Main Stage and further feature announcements coming soon.
Covering all areas of digital innovation in architecture, engineering, construction and operations, this year’s programme is designed to give visitors the insights they need to take action.
Visitors can expect a packed programme of real-world case studies, hands-on workshops, and expert-led technical sessions covering everything from emerging standards to the latest in AI, digital twins, and information management.
Alongside the content programme, DCW 2025 will also feature 150+ cutting-edge exhibitors showcasing the latest digital tools, solutions, and services – plus plenty of opportunities to connect with peers from across the built environment.
The event is free to attend – join the industry’s brightest minds on 4-5 June at Excel, London by registering today.
To keep in the loop with show updates, please visit www.digitalconstructionweek.com or follow us on social media.
Your international asbestos event is coming up! Berlin, June 24 & 25, 2025 – Meliá Hotel
Why you should not miss the 4th edition?
• Focus on Germany: Discover the specifics of the German market and engage with industry professionals.
• European Ambition: For the past three years, regulatory harmonisation at the European level has been at the heart of discussions. Significant advancements will be presented.
• Innovations: AI, robotics, insights from Europe, including Portugal in transition, and the United States, facing extreme situations like California wildfires.
• Professional Community: Each edition brings together more professionals who come to share, debate, and build a safer future together.
Join the international Asbestos community!
asbestos, according to the statement.
The affected material on the stadium site is now being packed in fibre-tight bags and loaded into lidded containers for removal.
They also want to stop attempts to use environmental lawsuits to halt the construction of the new, fully inclusive arena for 20,000
visitors.
All work will be carried out in accordance with applicable occupational health and safety regulations. This includes the requirement that construction workers wear protective suits when removing asbestoscontaining parts. Despite the incident, the dismantling of the
arena is expected to proceed as planned.
The Senate has repeatedly rejected criticism of the costly major project from local residents and objections from environmental activists. It also refused to be deterred by attempts to block the new construction of the future
Crocidolite, a highly carcinogenic type of asbestos, has been found exposed at a hotel damaged by the January 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake and subsequent heavy rains in September, risking airborne dispersal of its fibres, according to a nonprofit organisation survey.
An on-site survey by the Tokyobased nonprofit Asbestos Center
identified exposed crocidolite, also known as blue asbestos, at Hotel Kairakuso in Suzu, Ishikawa Prefecture. Part of the asbestos material had broken off and fallen to the ground, increasing the likelihood that fibres dispersed into the air.
Many volunteers have been assisting with recovery efforts at the hotel and surrounding areas, including earth and sand removal. Asbestos Center SecretaryGeneral Fuyushi Nagakura emphasised: “Measures should immediately be taken to prevent the dispersal of the substance and inform volunteers of the danger.”
In the powerful earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula in January 2024, walls at Hotel Kairakuso partially collapsed.
On April 28, 2025, the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) stands in solidarity with workers, trade unions, and organisations around the globe to commemorate International Workers’ Memorial Day (IWMD). This solemn day honours the countless individuals who have been injured, made ill, or killed
due to unsafe working conditions. It has been 55 years since the Occupational Safety and Health Act was signed into law in the United States – granting every worker the fundamental right to safety in the workplace. This landmark legislation was a hardwon victory forged by decades of labour movement organising and
community advocacy. Yet, in 2025, we face serious threats to worker safety as funding and staffing are stripped from key agencies tasked with protecting our workforce.
The current landscape is particularly concerning. Daily tragedies continue, with over 340 deaths and 6,000 injuries occurring in preventable
workplace incidents. Safety agencies remain critically underfunded, with OSHA so understaffed that it would take 185 years to inspect every workplace just once. Recent regulatory rollbacks and budget cuts threaten decades of hardwon protections.
Under the current administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), significant cutbacks have affected OSHA, the EPA, and other frontline agencies. These reductions diminish inspections, enforcement, and oversight, leaving workers increasingly vulnerable to preventable harm. Fewer inspectors mean fewer safety checks, and fewer resources mean more unaddressed, unsafe conditions.
As the AFL-CIO powerfully states, “We remember those who have suffered and died on the job and organise to fight for safe jobs.” We echo their urgent call for action and demand that Congress and the White House restore funding and staff to essential health and safety programmes and deliver real accountability for employers who put workers in harm’s way.
According to the World Health Organization, approximately 125 million people globally continue to be exposed to asbestos at work. Asbestos continues to be
We urge everyone to join the conversation and raise your voice:
• Join the conversation by using the hashtag #IWMD25
• Sign the petition to ban asbestos
• Send a letter to Congress in 60 seconds
a deadly threat in the United States, where it remains legal in certain forms despite being a known carcinogen with no safe level of exposure. While the EPA’s 2024 Final Rule on chrysotile asbestos represented significant progress, it addressed only one type of asbestos, leaving gaps in protection. Meanwhile, legacy asbestos remains in millions of buildings across the country.
This year, ADAO has continued its advocacy for stronger preventive policies:
• Led National Asbestos Awareness Week (1–7 April) with global partners,
• Actively supported the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act (ARBAN) in Congress,
• Continued to share personal stories through our Share Your Story campaign and new “Every 13 Minutes” initiative, highlighting the human cost of inaction – because that’s how often someone in the U.S. dies from an asbestosrelated disease.
On 28 April, we demanded
more than just words – we demanded action. We believe Congress must act swiftly to:
• Ban asbestos in all forms without loopholes or exemptions,
• Fully fund OSHA, EPA, and NIOSH,
• Protect whistleblowers and frontline workers,
• Enforce the law and hold violators accountable,
• We urge everyone to join the conversation and raise your voice.
Every worker deserves to return home safely. Together, we can ensure that past tragedies do not define our future.
The Kenyan government has ordered the removal of asbestos from all public and private buildings across the country, in a move aimed at mitigating health risks associated with exposure to the hazardous material.
The directive, approved by the Cabinet, will require property
owners to cover the costs of removal and disposal.
“To enhance public health and safety, the Cabinet has approved a nationwide asbestos removal initiative from all public and private facilities to mitigate health risks associated with asbestos exposure,” a statement read.
It noted that the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) would oversee the safe removal, handling and disposal of asbestos, while county governments had been directed to establish designated disposal sites.
Under the polluter pays
principle, property owners will bear the cost of removal, a move the government believes will reduce a future disease burden, cut healthcare costs and improve environmental safety.
Last year, the then Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale directed all government institutions, including Kenya Railways Corporation, Kenyatta University, Kenyatta National Hospital and the Kenya Medical Training College, to remove asbestos roofs by December 31, 2024.
The directive followed a nationwide mapping by NEMA, which identified a high concentration of buildings with asbestos roofing, particularly in Nairobi.
Speaking before the National Assembly’s Petitions Committee, Duale highlighted the urgency of removing the material, noting its
continued presence in key public institutions despite its ban in 2006.
“We cannot compromise on the health of our citizens. It is raining everywhere, and people are consuming water contaminated by these roofs. I apologise on behalf of previous regimes, but this government must tackle this issue for the sake of public health,” Duale said.
The CS disclosed that three ministries had been instructed to oversee the removal of asbestos, acknowledging that previous efforts had stalled due to financial constraints.
“I will take a Cabinet memo to ensure we prioritise this matter at the highest level. We cannot continue using budget constraints as an excuse while Kenyans’ health is at risk,” he told the
committee.
A NEMA survey revealed that asbestos roofing remains prevalent in government offices, barracks, schools, hospitals, and churches, with notable cases in Nairobi, including the Deliverance Church in Umoja.
Duale emphasised that the government is committed to eliminating the material, which has been scientifically linked to cancers affecting the lungs, larynx, and ovaries.
“The biggest problem has been the government itself, but we will ensure this issue is resolved,” he added.
Asbestos was once popular for its durability, lightweight nature and resistance to chemical corrosion, making it a common choice for insulation, ceiling tiles, and soundproofing. However, its long-term health hazards led to its ban nearly two decades ago.
The Ministry of Environment has acknowledged the risks posed by asbestos exposure and is urging property owners to comply with the directive to protect public health.
SCOTS are facing a growing risk from asbestos in water pipes with more than a quarter of pipes in some areas containing the cancercausing fibres.
There are fears that the more than half of the asbestos-laden pipes which make up over 11% of the country’s supply are now old, meaning there is a chance of fibres making their way into the drinking water supply.
More than a quarter of pipes in some areas contain cancercausing fibres.
Scottish water estimates it may take until 2072 for all of the pipes to be replaced if the current rate of refitting is maintained.
Asbestos is a known carcinogen to humans, meaning it is capable of causing cancer.
There is typically considered to be no safe level of exposure to asbestos – although health officials disagree on the dangers associated with fibres in drinking water.
The World Health Organization does not consider ingestion of asbestos in drinking water to be a serious risk.
However, experts fear we could be on the cusp of a new wave of asbestos cases in the UK
but will not know the full extent of the harm for decades.
Adrian Budgen is national head of asbestos and occupational disease at law firm Irwin Mitchell: “I think 50 years to replace these pipes is absurdly long. That’s several generations.
“The latency period for most asbestos-related illnesses is upwards of 20 years so it can often be 30, 40 or 50 years after you have exposure that you find out, and it just strikes like a lightning bolt.
“It’s now over 25 years since
asbestos was banned in the UK and we are only just seeing a third wave of asbestos cases, this time from background exposure in schools or offices where it was present and then disturbed.
“I would say this could be in that category but we just won’t know the full extent until many
years from now.”
Scottish Water said it invests around £35-40 million a year to renew water mains and is “proposing” to significantly increase the replacement rate for asbestos cement pipes.
A spokesman added: “There are strict standards in place for
any materials we use on our water network to ensure public health is the primary concern and these standards are guided by the World Health Organization, which has concluded there is no evidence to suggest that drinking water from AC pipes is a health risk.”
Once upon a time, not so long ago, South Africa was the global giant of asbestos mining. With over 10-million tonnes of asbestos produced between 1910 and 2002, the country became the world’s third-largest exporter.
The profits were not only good, they were also immense. During the height of things, while the industry fed foreign markets and multinational corporations who reaped the wealth, little attention was paid to what would follow. Today, long after the last mine
closed down, some workers and communities may still be carrying the burden.
One of the most haunting reminders of this history lies in the Lowveld of Mpumalanga. En route to the Eswatini border lies Msauli, a former mining town nestled in the Makonjwa mountains near Barberton.
This once thriving, well-funded community has, for all intents and purposes, been frozen in time for over two decades. Its closure in 2001 marked the end of asbestos
mining in South Africa. Today, Msauli is a mere echo of the fate of an industry that once had only profits to show on its books.
Research into asbestos-related illnesses such as mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung cancer shows that they have latency periods of up to 50 years. This means that workers and nearby residents exposed in the 1980s and 1990s may only begin to show symptoms today.
What about those workers who were never formally employed,
never medically examined, and now have no employer left to hold accountable? And even those who were, what happens to them when the company no longer exists? Who will pay for medical bills when the shareholders are gone?
South Africa has tried to compensate these workers through the Occupational Diseases in Mines and Works Act (ODMWA). In theory, this provides payouts to miners who develop occupational respiratory diseases. In practice, the system is notoriously slow, underfunded and limited to those who can prove direct employment.
Some trusts, such as the Asbestos Relief Trust, were created by companies under legal and public pressure. Unfortunately, these trusts only assist people linked to certain mines and with extensive documentation – requirements that not all former miners and their families can meet.
About 200 new cases of mesothelioma continue to be reported in South Africa each year. This figure is likely underestimated, as many cases go unreported or are misdiagnosed. In asbestos-polluted areas like the Northern Cape, more than 70% of environmental exposure cases involve women and children.
Secondary exposure, from
fibres brought home on clothes and skin, has proven deadly and because diseases like HIV and TB are so common in South Africa, many people exposed to asbestos die of other illnesses before the asbestos-related disease can even be diagnosed.
The public healthcare system is unable to cope with the growing demand for specialist respiratory and cancer treatment. Most medical schemes do not cover occupational diseases, leaving thousands with no choice but to rely on under-resourced hospitals.
Now, the situation may get worse as a proposed law may prevent private doctors from working in public hospitals unless they hold Socio-Economic Development (SED) certificates. This legislation is still pending, but healthcare workers and unions have sharply criticised the plan, warning it could drive even more doctors out of the already collapsing public sector.
The injustice is staggering. The asbestos industry built empires, both locally and abroad. It funded golf courses, schools and lifestyles. It kept shareholders happy and governments complicit, but it left behind disease, dereliction and silence. Msauli is not just an abandoned town; it is a monument to what was taken, and what was never given back.
South Africa’s asbestos history
is not just an environmental and medical tragedy. It is a human rights failure and one that disproportionately affected labourers in rural areas. It is a social justice issue that will most probably remain unresolved until the last of those touched by these deadly fibres are no longer on this earth.
And now, the question must be asked: what if the wave of illness has not peaked yet? What if those workers, some of whom never even knew what asbestos was, start falling ill in greater numbers? With no company to sue, no healthcare system to rely on, and no insurance to claim, where will they go?
And more importantly – who will care?
In 2011, the Constitutional Court of South Africa handed down a landmark ruling in Mankayi v AngloGold Ashanti, which confirmed that mineworkers suffering from occupational diseases like those caused by asbestos exposure can sue their former employers for damages, even if they already received compensation under statutory schemes like ODMWA.
This opened the door for legal recourse where companies are still traceable, but in many cases where entities have dissolved or records were lost, justice remains out of reach.
A builder has been fined after carrying out unlicensed asbestos removal work at a house in Cheadle, Manchester.
Gavin Mutch, who was trading as G Mutch Developments, had been contracted to carry out renovations at the property including roofing work. Despite being warned by the customer that asbestos was potentially present in the fascia boards, Mr Mutch proceeded to remove the asbestos-containing materials on 8 September 2022.
An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found Mr Mutch had carried out unlicensed and therefore illegal
asbestos removal work. This type of work should only be undertaken by a licensed asbestos contractor with appropriate safety controls in place.
Mr Mutch, of Cheadle Hulme, pleaded guilty to breaching Regulations 3(2) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 at Manchester Magistrates Court on 8 April 2025. He was sentenced to a 12 month Community Order with 180 hours Unpaid Work and ordered to pay £2,000 in costs.
This case highlights the importance of HSE’s current Asbestos and You campaign, which reminds tradespeople about the dangers of asbestos and the
importance of working safely with it.
Asbestos can be present in buildings constructed before 2000 and can cause serious diseases when disturbed. Workers in trades such as construction, maintenance, demolition and installation are particularly at risk.
The regulator also provides comprehensive guidance for workers and employers about working safely with asbestos on its website. This includes information on how to identify asbestos, what to do if you find it, and the appropriate safety measures needed when working with or around asbestos-containing materials. This guidance is available on the HSE website.
HSE inspector David Norton said: “This case demonstrates why our Asbestos and You campaign is so vital. At HSE, we want to raise awareness across the industry about the importance of having suitable control measures in place when working with asbestoscontaining materials. Licensed work requires specific training, equipment and practices to ensure safety.”
The prosecution was supported by HSE enforcement lawyer Samantha Crockett and paralegal officer Rebecca Withell.
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out under his control led to the contamination of a residential area with asbestos-containing materials.
The court heard how Mr Wilks had been commissioned by a property management company to replace asbestos cement roof sheets on three garages off Green Walk in Bowden, Altrincham in February 2022.
HSE began an investigation after a local resident raised concerns about debris that had fallen into their garden during the work. Analysis confirmed the debris contained chrysotile asbestos.
HSE inspectors discovered ripped bags of asbestos waste stored in a publicly accessible area in front of the garages, with asbestos-containing materials spilling onto the ground and contaminating nearby undergrowth. Further investigation revealed that residents’ personal belongings stored in the garages had also been contaminated.
The footage below shows two workers under the supervision of Mr Wilks improperly clearing asbestos debris from a neighbouring garden and disposing of it in domestic waste bins, highlighting the unsafe practices that led to this prosecution.
HSE’s campaign Asbestos and You reminds tradespeople about the dangers of asbestos and the importance of working safely with it.
The regulator also provides comprehensive guidance for workers and employers about working safely with asbestos on its website. This includes information on how to identify asbestos, what to do if you find it, and the appropriate safety measures needed when working with or around asbestos-containing materials.
Workers in trades such as construction, maintenance, demolition and installation are particularly at risk and should ensure they have appropriate training before starting work that might disturb asbestos. This guidance is available on the HSE website.
The property management
company subsequently arranged for a licensed asbestos removal contractor to safely collect the waste and thoroughly clean the affected areas.
Mr Wilks pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 11(1) and Regulation 16 of The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, which require proper planning and precautions to prevent exposure to and spread of asbestos during non-licensed work. He was sentenced to a 12 month Community Order with 200 hours of unpaid work and was ordered to pay £3,582.13 costs at a hearing at Ashton-Under-Lyne Magistrates Court on 28 March 2025.
HSE Inspector Phil Redman said: “This was a serious incident that put Mr Wilks, those working under his control, and members of the public, at risk from the potential harmful effects of being exposed to asbestos-containing materials. Duty holders are reminded to ensure they fully control the risks associated with the removal of asbestos-containing materials that do not require removal by a licensed asbestos removal contractor.”
The prosecution was supported by HSE enforcement lawyer Kate Harney and paralegal officer Rebecca Withell.
“ HSE’s campaign, Asbestos and You reminds tradespeople about the dangers of asbestos ”
There are six steps for how those responsible can comply with their legal duty:
1. Find out if asbestos could be present in your building,
2. Arrange an asbestos survey by a competent person or accredited surveyor,
3. Make a register and assess the risks from your asbestos,
4. Write your asbestos management plan,
5. Put your plan into action,
6. Continually monitor and communicate the plan.
