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Property developer fined over asbestos exposure

A Bristol-based property developer has been handed a fine after it emerged that at least three employees were exposed to potentially deadly asbestos fibres while working on a former Marks and Spencer shop building between 17th September and 24th October 2012.

Taunton Magistrates’ Court heard how Da Vinci Developments Limited failed to put measures in place to mitigate risk posed by the potential presence of asbestos.

A non-licensed asbestos removal company, who had been asked to quote for the removal works, notified the Health and Safety Executive of the risk. A subsequent investigation was launched.

Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector James Lucas said: “It is very important that employers take appropriate measures before work starts in order to identify the potential for asbestos to be present when undertaking work.

“Appropriate measures can then be taken to ensure workers are not exposed and asbestos is not spread.”

The HSE’s investigation revealed that Da Vinci Developments had failed to conduct a statutory survey to check for the presence of asbestos materials prior to work commencing.

Workers went ahead removing walls and ceilings in the building, smashing up the asbestos insulation board.

Mr Lucas added: “Workers who have been exposed to asbestos could also have posed a health risk to others in the long term, even their families and loved ones, by taking home contaminated clothing.

“Asbestos is the single greatest cause of work-related deaths in the UK. Building owners and contractors have a duty to ensure they protect their workers from risk of exposure. Da Vinci Developments Limited neglected their duty by failing to plan for the dangers of this hidden killer.”

Da Vinci Developments Limited of Archfield Road, Cotham, Bristol, pleaded guilty to two breaches of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. The company was fined £9,800 and ordered to pay £796 in costs.

The HSE says asbestos insulation board (AIB) removal must always be undertaken by a licensed contractor with suitable control measures in place.

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