Source · Select Committees · Work and Pensions Committee
Recommendation 24
24
Paragraph: 121
Despite their requirement to be accredited, the work of analysts continues to be compromised by...
Conclusion
Despite their requirement to be accredited, the work of analysts continues to be compromised by regulatory arrangements which allow licensed asbestos contractors to commission their own analysts to check their work. We heard disturbing accounts from several sources that the current model undermines the independence of this critical quality check. Witnesses told us that one simple way of improving standards would be to make it a requirement for the building owner or client to employ the analyst in all circumstances.
Paragraph Reference:
121
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
In Great Britain it is a legal requirement for every analyst undertaking the certification process, following asbestos removal, to be UKAS accredited, regardless of who they are appointed by. As part of this accreditation the analyst is required to show impartiality and independence. HSE has recently strengthened and expanded its guidance on professional standards in the revised publication HSG248 Asbestos: The Analysts’ Guide published in 2021. This strongly recommends that the analyst is independently sourced and employed by the building owner or occupier in control of the premises. HSE engages regularly with UKAS to ensure the maintenance of professional standards and with analyst trade bodies, through the Asbestos Network, and at HSE site inspections to support the standards of impartiality expected. However, HSE recognises the evidence presented to the inquiry and we will engage with stakeholders to consider how that guidance can be reinforced further.