A REPORT written by asbestos expert and director of Acorn Analytical Services, Ian Stone, has highlighted the worrying state of asbestos in the UK.
The Annual Asbestos Industry Review provides a unique insight into the industry and a snapshot of the work being done by Acorn Analytical Services – one of the largest independent consultancies in the UK – to protect businesses from the hidden dangers.
In the past year alone, three independent reports have concluded that it remains one of the biggest causes of death in the workplace in the UK, with 300,000 non-domestic buildings still believed to contain asbestos products.
Asbestos: Turbulence remains in the industry
While much work still needs to be done, the report also turns the spotlight onto the ongoing turbulence in the industry which is causing a large number of consultancies to fail. As a result, clients are being left vulnerable and without the correct support to manage their asbestos problems safely.
Ian said: “A leading industry analyst has compared Acorn with its competitors, and we are delighted to learn that we have been rated as ‘strong’.
“The study highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the company, estimates the market value and compares the commercial results achieved by its competitors.
“The market we operate in could be very different by the end of the year. With 86 companies in the UK making a loss and 95 rated as strong, asbestos surveying and testing could look very different in the next 12 months.”
For its part, Acorn Analytical Services is committed to offering its clients the very best service possible, particularly at a time when fears over asbestos are dominating the headlines and new guidelines are likely to be introduced.
‘Tighter controls on businesses are likely’
Ian said: “My prediction is that the authorities will continue to clamp down and target businesses more than ever.
“This brings added pressure for duty holders to ensure compliance is undertaken proactively and fully managed accordingly to avoid bad press and FFI payments, prosecutions and fines.
“The industry is in a bit of turmoil at the moment with some businesses going into administration and others likely to do so. This is another risk for a duty holder because overnight they could be left without the support needed for their business to remain compliant.
“It is a time-consuming operation to change over to a new consultant when it is planned let alone if they disappear overnight. It is advisable to undertake due diligence checks on incumbent consultants to ensure they still meet all of your requirements as a stable and fully functional supplier.
“The next two years will be difficult economically because of the general markets, there will be added pressure to conform with compliance and this will be harder to achieve unless you have the right consultants on board that are in a strong position.”
For its part, Acorn is committed to providing the very best service possible, building strong relationships and taking the time to understand the individual needs of each client. Over the coming months we will be developing the range of services we offer, improving communication and reacting proactively to changes in the market.”
If you need our support please get in touch today by calling 0844 818 0895.
Acorn is a professional asbestos consultancy helping organisations deal with asbestos compliance using asbestos surveys, asbestos air testing, and asbestos removal management.
Please call one of the team, or use the online form to obtain your free quotation. If you would like further information or advice on asbestos and asbestos training, contact the team on 0844 818 0895 or Contact Us
