Posted: Tuesday, 4 October 2011 @ 09:46
M & S has been fined £1m for breaches of health and safety legislation. The Crown Court said it had failed to protect customers, staff and workers from potential exposure to asbestos whilst refurbishment works were carried out to a store. Ceiling dust possibly containing asbestos fell to the shop floor whilst it was open. M & S were also ordered to pay £600,000 costs after the prosecution by the Health & Safety Executive.
Marks & Spencers were in breach of the Health & Safety at Work Act but property owners and occupiers also need to be aware of the Control of Asbestos Regulations that apply to 'non-domestic' premises. These impose a duty to manage asbestos, provide training where necessary and include guidelines for working with/removal of asbestos. See the HSE guidance here. When you come to sell or lease business premises a standard enquiry from the proposed buyer/tenant will be have you complied with these regulations?
The Daily Telegraph reported on the dangers of asbestos - article. If you require any further information on this please contact me on the details below.
Steve Petty
Commercial Property Solicitor
0845 003 5639
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