Asbestos Safety Policy
1. Introduction and objectives
As a landlord, Gateshead Council is responsible for maintenance and repairs to our homes, communal blocks, and other properties we own and manage, many of which will have been constructed using asbestos containing materials. As such, we have a legal 'duty to manage' asbestos in these buildings.
Homes or buildings built or refurbished before the year 2000 may contain asbestos. If an asbestos containing material is disturbed or damaged it can release asbestos fibres into the air which are a danger to health if inhaled. Workers who carry out repairs and maintenance work are at particular risk, however, building occupants could also be put at risk.
The key objective of this policy is to ensure our Cabinet, Senior Management Team, employees, partners, and tenants are clear on our legal and regulatory asbestos safety obligations. This policy provides the framework our staff and partners will operate within to meet these obligations.