British Institute of Demolition Engineers speaks out about dangerous practices in demolition and disposal of concrete contaminated with asbestos
David R. Turner, President of the U.K.’s Institute of Demolition Engineers, claims local authorities are sacrificing professionalism for the savings in making decisions regarding demolition of structures containing asbestos-contaminated concrete. Although it is safer to remove asbestos before beginning demolition, asbestos removal is expensive and clients are pressuring contractors to leave asbestos-contaminated concrete in place during demolition. Turner also called for clarification from the U.K.’s Environment Agency and the Health and Safety Executive of regulations concerning the disposal of contaminated concrete and the definition of contaminated versus hazardous concrete. Finally, until clarification of the regulations is available, Turner warned that demolition experts should try to protect themselves from legal liability through risk assessments and audit trails.
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