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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Asbestos Safety and Risk Management Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} identifies, manages, and mitigates the risks associated with asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in compliance with relevant legislation. This policy outlines measures to:

• Ensure the safety of service users, staff, and visitors.
• Comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Provide a structured asbestos management plan.
• Prevent asbestos exposure through proactive control measures.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All premises owned, leased, or managed by {{org_field_name}} where asbestos may be present.
• All staff, contractors, and external maintenance teams working on or near asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).
• All service users and visitors, ensuring they are safeguarded from exposure risks.

3. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

This policy aligns with:

• The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, setting out requirements for managing asbestos risks.
• The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, ensuring asbestos management is part of overall workplace safety.
• The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, requiring risk assessments for asbestos exposure.
• The Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016, ensuring compliance with environmental safety requirements for care homes.
• CIW Health and Safety Guidance, ensuring asbestos safety measures align with best practices.

4. Responsibilities

4.1 Registered Manager

• Ensures full compliance with asbestos management regulations.
• Maintains and updates the Asbestos Management Plan annually.
• Ensures all staff and contractors are aware of asbestos risks and control measures.
• Reports asbestos incidents to CIW, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), and relevant authorities.

4.2 Maintenance and Facilities Team

• Conducts regular asbestos inspections in accordance with the management plan.
• Ensures safe work practices around ACMs.
• Maintains asbestos records, surveys, and risk assessments.

4.3 All Staff Members

• Follow asbestos safety protocols when working near ACMs.
• Report any damage, deterioration, or concerns regarding asbestos.
• Do not disturb any material suspected of containing asbestos.

4.4 Contractors and External Workers

• Must be provided with the Asbestos Register and Management Plan before starting work.
• Must not disturb or remove asbestos materials unless specifically trained and licensed.
• Must comply with legal and care home safety procedures.

5. Asbestos Identification and Risk Assessment

5.1 Asbestos Survey and Register

• A UKAS-accredited asbestos survey must be conducted on the premises.
• The Asbestos Register must record:
  • Location of ACMs.
  • Type and condition of asbestos materials.
  • Risk assessment findings.
  • Recommended control measures.
• The register must be updated annually and made available to all relevant personnel.

5.2 Risk Assessment Process

• Risk assessments must determine:
  • Likelihood of asbestos disturbance.
  • Potential exposure levels.
  • Appropriate control measures.
• Any work near asbestos materials must be planned and risk-assessed before execution.

6. Asbestos Management Plan

The Asbestos Management Plan includes:

1. Identification and risk assessment of ACMs.
2. Procedures for safe handling and control.
3. Emergency procedures in case of asbestos exposure.
4. Training and awareness programmes for staff.
5. Regular monitoring and review of asbestos conditions.

The plan must be reviewed annually or whenever significant changes occur (e.g., renovations).

7. Asbestos Control Measures

7.1 Monitoring and Inspection

• ACMs must be inspected every six months for deterioration.
• If deterioration is noted, the material must be sealed, enclosed, or removed by a licensed contractor.

7.2 Safe Working Practices

• Do not drill, cut, or disturb ACMs without an approved risk assessment.
• Signs and warnings must be placed near asbestos-containing areas.
• If work must be conducted near ACMs:
  • Use low-dust methods (e.g., wet drilling, hand tools).
  • Wear appropriate PPE (respiratory protection, disposable coveralls).
  • Dispose of asbestos waste safely in line with regulations.

8. Emergency Procedures for Asbestos Disturbance

If asbestos is accidentally disturbed:

1. Stop work immediately and evacuate the area.
2. Secure the area to prevent further exposure.
3. Inform the Registered Manager and designated asbestos officer.
4. Arrange for an air quality test and risk assessment.
5. Report the incident to CIW and the HSE if required.
6. Provide health monitoring for any exposed individuals.

9. Training and Awareness

9.1 Staff Training

All staff must receive annual asbestos awareness training, covering:

• Identifying ACMs.
• Safe handling and reporting procedures.
• Emergency actions in case of exposure.

9.2 Contractor Requirements

• Contractors working with or near asbestos must be licensed and trained.
• They must provide method statements and risk assessments before starting work.

10. Asbestos Removal and Disposal

• Asbestos removal must be carried out by a licensed contractor.
• Removed materials must be double-bagged and disposed of at an approved facility.
• A clearance certificate must be obtained before reoccupying the affected area.

11. Record Keeping and Compliance Monitoring

• All asbestos-related surveys, risk assessments, training records, and incident reports must be kept for a minimum of 40 years.
• Compliance will be audited annually, with reports submitted to senior management and CIW if required.

12. Related Policies

This policy should be read in conjunction with:

• Health and Safety at Work Policy (CHW16)
• Risk Management and Assessment Policy (CHW18)
• Emergency and Business Continuity Plan (CHW19)
• Fire Safety and Evacuation Procedures (CHW20)

13. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislation changes or asbestos conditions require updates.

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Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.