Issue - meetings

To consider and comment on the proposed decision by the Cabinet Member for Corporate and Democratic Services to approve the adoption of the Asbestos Policy and Procedures

Rebecca Spore (Director of Infrastructure), Tony Carty (Health and Safety Business Operations Manager) and Karen Ripley (Head of Property Commissioning) were in attendance for this item

(1)       Mrs Ripley introduced the report which included a draft policy on the management of asbestos in KCC buildings.  The policy provided best practice guidance and general information on the management of asbestos, including current practices and legislative requirements as well as information about the Council’s strategic approach to the management of asbestos in its existing estate and in any new buildings.

(2)       In response to Members’ questions, officers gave the following further information:

·         The statutory requirements had not changed since the Control of Asbestos Regulations in 2012;

·         Trade Unions were involved locally in supporting management action;

·         Management surveys of buildings had been carried out every three years since 2002/03;

·         There was no requirement to remove asbestos from buildings unless it conflicted with refurbishment or demolition;

·         There was potential to do more harm than good by trying to remove asbestos when it was in a stable condition;

·         Any recourse to previous owners of buildings containing asbestos depended on the terms of the acquisition, however, where appropriate indemnities were sought for a range of issues;

·         The rolling programme of risk assessment was up to date.

(3)       Resolved that the proposed decision of the Cabinet Member for Corporate and Democratic Services to update the Kent County Council policy and procedures for the management of asbestos be endorsed.