Compliance & Safety
Every aspect of our work is governed by the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and current HSE guidance. Compliance is not an afterthought — it is the foundation of everything we do.
Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012
The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012) is the principal legislation governing asbestos management in Great Britain. It sets out the legal duties of those who own, occupy, or manage non-domestic premises, as well as the requirements for anyone carrying out work with asbestos-containing materials.
Key requirements under CAR 2012 include:
Onea Environmental operates in full compliance with CAR 2012. Our survey and removal procedures follow HSE-approved methodologies, and all work is documented to the standard required for regulatory review.
HSE Guidance
The Health and Safety Executive publishes detailed guidance on asbestos management, surveying, and removal. Our work is carried out in accordance with key HSE publications, including:
The definitive guidance for asbestos survey methodology, including management surveys and refurbishment & demolition surveys.
Guidance on air monitoring and the four-stage clearance procedure for licensed removal work.
Task-based guidance for non-licensed work, including method sheets for specific tasks.
The Approved Code of Practice for the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
Training & Qualifications
Our lead surveyor holds the BOHS P402 qualification — the recognised standard for asbestos surveyors in the UK. BOHS (British Occupational Hygiene Society) qualifications are the industry benchmark for competence in asbestos work, and P402 specifically covers the identification, assessment, and management of asbestos in buildings.
All personnel involved in asbestos work are trained to the appropriate level as required by CAR 2012, including asbestos awareness training (Category A) and non-licensed work training. Training records are maintained and available for review upon request.
Laboratory Analysis
All samples collected by Onea Environmental are analysed by UKAS-accredited laboratories. UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) is the sole national accreditation body recognised by the UK government. Accreditation to ISO 17025 ensures that laboratory results meet internationally accepted standards for accuracy and reliability.
We maintain established partnerships with accredited laboratories to ensure consistent turnaround times and reliable results. This is a non-negotiable part of our quality standard — we never use non-accredited testing facilities.
Risk Management
Before any work begins, we prepare a detailed risk assessment and method statement (RAMS) specific to the task and site. This document covers:
Insurance
Onea Environmental carries full professional indemnity insurance and public liability insurance appropriate to the scope of our work. Certificates are available upon request. Our insurance covers all survey, testing, and non-licensed removal activities.
How We Approach Asbestos Risk
Asbestos management is fundamentally about protecting people. When we assess a property, we are looking for materials that could release fibres if disturbed — and advising clients on how to prevent that from happening. This means being thorough in our surveys, honest in our reporting, and practical in our recommendations.
We do not recommend unnecessary work. If a material is in good condition and will not be disturbed, it may be safer to leave it in place and manage it through regular monitoring. If removal is needed, we explain why, what the process involves, and what it will cost — before any work begins. If a material falls outside our scope and requires licensed removal, we say so clearly and help coordinate the right contractor.
This approach protects both occupants and workers. It also protects our clients from spending money on work that is not necessary, or from proceeding with building projects that could disturb hidden asbestos materials.
What Documentation Do You Receive?
Every project generates documentation that you can keep on file for compliance, insurance, and future reference. The specific documents depend on the type of work carried out:
After a Survey
A detailed report identifying all asbestos-containing materials found, their location, type, condition, and a risk assessment for each. The report includes clear recommendations — whether to manage in place, encapsulate, or remove — and photographic evidence where relevant. This report can be provided to contractors, solicitors, letting agents, or regulatory bodies.
After Testing
A laboratory certificate from a UKAS-accredited facility confirming the type and percentage of asbestos fibres present in each sample, or confirming the material is asbestos-free. Each sample is identified by location and linked to a site plan or photograph.
After Removal or Encapsulation
A completion certificate, the risk assessment and method statement used for the work, waste consignment notes confirming correct disposal through a licensed carrier, and photographic records of the work carried out. For licensed removal projects, air test certificates and a four-stage clearance certificate are also provided.
Licensed Work Statement
Onea Environmental specialises in non-licensed asbestos works (NNLW), surveys, and testing. Where licensed asbestos removal is required, this work is carried out by approved HSE-licensed subcontractors, coordinated and managed by Onea Environmental to ensure full compliance with CAR 2012 and HSE guidance.
CAR 2012 Quick Reference for Property Owners
The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 apply throughout Great Britain. Here is a plain-language summary of the key obligations for property owners and dutyholders:
This summary is for general guidance. The full regulations are published by the HSE and should be consulted for specific legal requirements. For advice on how these regulations apply to your property, contact us.
Our Standards
Duty to Manage
If you are responsible for a non-domestic building, you have a legal duty under Regulation 4 of CAR 2012 to manage asbestos. This includes identifying ACMs, assessing their condition, and putting a management plan in place. Failure to comply can result in HSE enforcement action.
Compliance Advice
Need help understanding your asbestos obligations? We can advise on what the regulations require for your specific situation.
Contact UsFree initial guidance — no obligation