As we approach 2027, asbestos remains a significant health and safety concern for commercial property owners, facilities managers and businesses across the UK. Despite being banned in 1999, asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are still present in thousands of buildings, making effective asbestos management and professional removal essential.

For organisations responsible for older commercial properties, understanding legal obligations and taking a proactive approach to asbestos safety should remain a priority throughout 2027.

Understanding Your Duty to Manage Asbestos

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, those responsible for the maintenance and repair of non-domestic premises have a legal duty to manage asbestos.

This includes identifying asbestos-containing materials, assessing their condition and ensuring appropriate measures are in place to prevent exposure.

Dutyholders must also maintain an up-to-date asbestos register and management plan, ensuring contractors and maintenance personnel have access to relevant information before undertaking work.

Why Asbestos Surveys Remain Essential in 2027

Many UK commercial buildings constructed or refurbished before 2000 may still contain asbestos in insulation, ceiling tiles, flooring, roofing materials and other building components.

Professional asbestos surveys help identify potential risks and inform appropriate management decisions.

There are two main types of asbestos surveys:

• Management Surveys: Designed to locate asbestos-containing materials that could be disturbed during normal occupation or routine maintenance.
• Refurbishment and Demolition Surveys: Required before refurbishment or demolition work in areas where asbestos may be disturbed.

Commissioning the appropriate survey is an important step towards protecting building occupants and contractors.

Managing Asbestos During Refurbishment Projects

As businesses invest in upgrading commercial properties throughout 2027, asbestos must be considered during the earliest stages of project planning.

Disturbing asbestos-containing materials without suitable precautions can release hazardous fibres, creating serious health risks and potentially causing costly project delays.

Where asbestos removal is necessary, engaging an appropriately qualified contractor ensures work is planned and undertaken safely, with licensed contractors used where legally required.

Taking a Proactive Approach to Asbestos Management

Effective asbestos management is not simply about meeting legal requirements. It is about protecting people, maintaining safe working environments and reducing disruption to business operations.

Regularly reviewing asbestos management plans, monitoring known materials and communicating risks to contractors can help organisations maintain safer premises.

Specialist Asbestos Services from Shield Services Group

With extensive experience supporting commercial and industrial clients across the UK, Shield Services Group provides specialist asbestos surveying and removal services.

From initial surveys and risk assessments through to carefully planned removal projects, our experienced teams help organisations manage asbestos safely and efficiently.

Planning refurbishment works or reviewing your asbestos management strategy for 2027? Contact Shield Services Group to discuss your requirements with our specialist team.