Roofers and builders reminded to follow duty of care
The Environment Agency is reminding roofers and builders in Devon and Cornwall to take responsibility for their waste.
Asbestos is a hazardous material and must be disposed of properly
Most roofers and builders are law-abiding and take their duty of care seriously when it comes to waste management. But the reminder comes after agency officers found a large amount of buried asbestos waste when executing a search warrant at a site in the South West. The operator of the site was arrested by the police and questioned.
Asbestos and other hazardous wastes require disposal by specialist contractors at sites that can legally and safely handle it. Mishandling it creates a serious risk to public health, the environment and wildlife.
Kevin Baker of the Environment Agency said:
Tradespeople that create waste, especially during activities like construction and roofing, must make sure that waste goes to a site legally able to accept it. Roofing tiles often contain asbestos so make sure you know what you’re dealing with.
When waste is transferred between different parties it needs a waste transfer note. If a site or waste operator asks for cash for tipping, and provides zero paperwork to you, then be suspicious. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
If you get rid of asbestos or other waste at illegal sites, don’t be surprised if you get a knock on the door.
Unscrupulous people posing as genuine waste collectors cause serious harm to the environment by taking construction waste and dumping it. This waste causes air, ground and water pollution and odour issues. Criminal actions like this also undermine legitimate waste collection businesses.
Managers, owners, and staff of all construction businesses must use a registered waste carrier to collect, recycle or dispose of their waste. Check the Environment Agency public register of waste carriers before using them. Make sure the waste is accurately described and know where your waste is going. Follow the EA blog for all the steps builders can take to follow their duty of care.
Anyone who suspects illegal waste activity can report it anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.