19 Feb What Happens During a Licensed Asbestos Removal Project?

When asbestos is discovered in a building, it’s not just another construction issue — it’s a serious health and legal matter that must be handled correctly. In the UK, certain types of asbestos work legally require a licensed contractor under the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

So what actually happens during a licensed asbestos removal project? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help property owners, developers, and site managers understand the process.

1. Asbestos Survey & Identification

Every licensed removal project starts with a professional asbestos survey. Depending on your plans, this could be:

• Refurbishment & Demolition (R&D) Survey – Required before major works
• Management Survey – For ongoing occupation and maintenance

Samples of suspected materials are taken and analysed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory to confirm:

• Whether asbestos is present
• The type of asbestos (e.g., chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite)
• The condition of the material
• The level of risk

This determines whether the work requires a licensed contractor.

2. Notification to the HSE

For licensed asbestos work, contractors must notify the Health and Safety Executive at least 14 days before work begins (unless it qualifies for a waiver in specific emergency situations).

A detailed Plan of Work (PoW) is prepared, outlining:

• Scope of removal
• Risk assessments
• Control measures
• Decontamination procedures
• Waste handling processes

This ensures the project meets the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

3. Site Preparation & Containment

Before removal begins, the area is fully secured to prevent fibre release and cross-contamination.

This typically includes:

• Erecting airtight enclosures using heavy-duty polythene sheeting
• Installing negative pressure units (NPUs) to prevent fibre escape
• Sealing vents and openings
• Establishing a three-stage decontamination unit (DCU) for workers
• Clear signage and restricted access zones

At this stage, air monitoring equipment may also be set up.

4. Controlled Removal Process

Licensed asbestos removal is a highly controlled operation carried out by trained operatives wearing:

• Full-face respirators
• Disposable protective clothing
• Specialist gloves and footwear

Materials are:

• Carefully wetted to minimise fibre release
• Removed intact wherever possible
• Double-bagged in UN-approved asbestos waste bags
• Clearly labelled as hazardous waste

Common materials requiring licensed removal include:

• Pipe lagging
• Sprayed coatings
• Asbestos insulation board (AIB)
• Loose-fill insulation

5. Decontamination Procedures

Worker safety is critical throughout the project.

Every time operatives exit the enclosure, they pass through the decontamination unit, which includes:

• Dirty stage
• Shower stage
• Clean stage

This strict procedure ensures no asbestos fibres leave the work area.

6. Waste Transport & Disposal

Asbestos waste is classified as hazardous waste and must be:

• Transported by a licensed waste carrier
• Accompanied by a hazardous waste consignment note
• Disposed of at an authorised hazardous waste facility

Full documentation is retained for compliance and audit purposes.

7. Independent Four-Stage Clearance

Once removal is complete, an independent UKAS-accredited analyst conducts the legally required four-stage clearance process:

• Preliminary check of the work area
• Thorough visual inspection
• Air monitoring and fibre testing
• Final assessment after enclosure dismantling

If the area meets strict safety thresholds, a Certificate of Reoccupation is issued.

Only then can the space be safely used again.

8. Documentation & Handover

At project completion, clients receive a full compliance pack including:

• Plan of Work
• Risk assessments
• Air test results
• Waste consignment notes
• Certificate of Reoccupation

This documentation is essential for property records, audits, and future transactions.

Why Licensed Asbestos Removal Matters

Attempting to cut corners with asbestos is not just dangerous — it can result in severe fines, prosecution, and project shutdowns. More importantly, improper handling puts workers and building occupants at serious risk of long-term illnesses such as mesothelioma and asbestosis.

• A licensed contractor ensures:
• Legal compliance
• Proper containment
• Safe disposal
• Minimal disruption
• Peace of mind

Planning an Asbestos Removal Project?

If you’re preparing for demolition, refurbishment, or site redevelopment, early asbestos assessment is critical to avoiding delays and unexpected costs.

Understanding what happens during a licensed asbestos removal project allows you to plan confidently, protect your workforce, and keep your development on schedule.