1The Three Tiers of Asbestos Work in the UK
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) enforces strict statutory tiers under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012):
1. Non-Licensed Work: Lower-risk tasks where asbestos fibres are tightly bound within a matrix, such as unfragmented asbestos cement roof sheets, vinyl floor tiles, and bitumen adhesive. No HSE notification required, but Category B asbestos awareness and task training is mandatory.
2. Notifiable Non-Licensed Work (NNLW): Maintenance or removal where materials are degraded or friable, such as broken Artex or small-scale AIB removal in good condition. Requires online ASB1 notice to HSE and statutory health records.
3. HSE Licensed Work: High-risk removal involving friable materials like Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB), sprayed limpet insulation, and pipe thermal lagging. Can ONLY be carried out by contractors holding a valid HSE 3-year licence.
2Mandatory HSE Licensed Removal Protocols (ASB5 & Enclosures)
Licensed removal involves extensive safety controls that account for the higher cost (£150 - £220/m²):
- 14-Day Statutory Notice: Form ASB5 must be served on the HSE 14 calendar days prior to work beginning.
- Negative Pressure Enclosure (NPE): Heavy-duty 1000-gauge polythene tent built around the work area, held at negative pressure using HEPA air extraction units (BS 8520).
- 3-Stage Decontamination Unit (DCU): Dedicated mobile hygiene facility with clean, shower, and dirty airlocks for operative decontamination.
- UKAS 4-Stage Clearance: An independent UKAS-accredited analytical laboratory conducts visual inspection, air monitoring (threshold <0.01 fibres/cm³), and issues a formal Certificate of Reoccupation.