Prosecution: Construction company fined after exposing workers to asbestos risks

Asbestos was banned in 1999, however when construction works take place on older buildings, the presence of asbestos can pose an occupational hazard to workers. We recently highlighted the mesothelioma risks associated with asbestos, which are further evidenced in the HSE prosecution below.

HSE prosecution

In August 2025, a Manchester-based construction firm, A1 Property Maintenance Management Limited, have been fined after exposing workers to asbestos risks.

Whilst acting as the Principal Contractor on works taking place at a former public house, evidence of asbestos was found that an asbestos insulating board had been illegally removed from the dumb waiter lift. A worker had previously entered the building and discovered apparent asbestos fragments around the lift shaft, which was later wrapped and removed by a licensed contractor.

A1 Property Maintenance management Limited were fined £5.117 for breaching Regulation 4(6) of The Control of Asbestos Regulations. The company had failed to conduct an asbestos survey to confirm that all asbestos-containing materials had been removed following the earlier identification of asbestos on-site.

An HSE spokesperson said:

“This was a serious incident and put those working in the building at risk of being exposed to the harmful effects of asbestos.

“Duty holders are reminded of the need to review without delay an asbestos assessment if there has been a significant change in the premises to which the assessment relates.”

What are the risks?

Asbestos carries serious health risks including mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis and pleural thickening. Through continued vigilance, compliance, awareness and training, these risks can be minimised.

Take action

We provide practical support with Asbestos Awareness training courses and retained support to ensure safe working conditions. Get in touch today to start a conversation about asbestos management in your work.