“Birmingham Builders Prosecuted Over Illegal Asbestos Removal” Asons Solicitors Comment
Bolton, UK (PRWEB UK) 23 July 2013 -- This month, Birmingham Magistrates’ Court heard that a householder has received a grant from Birmingham City Council, allowing him to convert his garage into a bedroom and bathroom for his disabled father. (1)
The court was informed that, after the necessary testing of building samples, asbestos was found in the garage. However, an investigation conducted by HSE revealed that by the time the test results were known, the asbestos insulating boards had already broken up with a hammer and been removed by the two builders. (1)
The court also heard, that neither of the builders held the required license to deal with asbestos boards’ removal. Moreover, it is alleged that they did not carry out or ask to see an asbestos survey, which is mandatory by law, before undertaking any refurbishment or demolition work. (1)
Commenting on the news, Suzanne Yates, Executive at Asons Solicitors, said that:
“According to Health and Safety Executive’s press release, it is alleged that the two builders weren’t licensed contractors, nor did they take the opportunity to warn the householders about the presence of asbestos within their premises.
“Here at Asons, we see many similar cases where safety guidelines and regulations haven’t been followed. I believe this incident could easily have been prevented, safeguarding the health of both the householders and workers. The unnecessary exposure to asbestos fibres could have been avoided, simply by adhering to basic legal requirements.”
Birmingham City Council spent more than £6,500 cleaning-up the site from asbestos debris. Both builders pleaded guilty, accepting a fine of £2,000 each, plus £1,200 in costs each.
Following the hearing, HSE Inspector, Gareth Langston, said:
"Inhaling asbestos fibres can cause mesothelioma, which is always fatal, and other life-threatening conditions. More than 4,000 people die every year from asbestos-related diseases."
"An estimated 70% of properties contain asbestos. It is illegal to undertake any work which will disturb the fabric of the building without carrying out and obtaining the results of an asbestos survey.
He added:
"The type of work being undertaken should have been carried out by a contractor who holds the necessary licence, in a safe manner and with the necessary control measures. Instead, the builders exposed the householders and others - including themselves - to potentially harmful airborne asbestos fibres. They also demonstrated a complete disregard for the law." (1)
Asons Solicitors have a dedicated team of industrial disease specialists, dealing with cases of asbestos related diseases, giving people legal advice, particularly in the area of mesothelioma claims. Exposure to asbestos can be deadly, and Asons urge anyone who feels they may have been exposed to asbestos fibres to consult their GP immediately for a consultation, and contact an industrial disease specialist for legal representation.
Asons Solicitors suggest that if someone would like to learn more about the asbestosis compensation process, or if they would like to better understand the condition, that information is available at http://www.asons.co.uk, or via an expert helpline on 01204 521 133
(1) Health and Safety Executive, 04/07/2013 hse.gov.uk/press/2013/rnn-wm-17511.htm
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About Asons Solicitors:
Asons Solicitors is a Bolton-based law practice that specialises in personal injury and industrial disease claims. Founded by brothers Imran Akram and Kamran Akram, Asons Solicitors has developed to become a young and dynamic law firm that delivers practical solutions to clients in times of difficulty. Their continued focus on their staff has seen them awarded with the Investors in People “Gold Award”; which is reflected in the professional and personable approach they take in working with clients. They strive to grow and to develop, and their supportiveness and attention to detail ensures that their clients use them time and again.
For further information contact:
Email: info(at)asons(dot)co.uk
Website: http://www.asons.co.uk
Imran Akram, Asons Solicitors, http://www.asons.co.uk, 08448501062, [email protected]
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