Asbestos removal company prosecuted for forging documents

Last Updated on 12th April 2022 by Dan

Asbestos removal firm and two managers gained asbestos licence unlawfully

Last week, on 12th March 2018, a local asbestos removal company were prosecuted for forging medical and asbestos training certificates in order to obtain an asbestos removal licence from the HSE.

Excavation and Contracting (UK) Ltd forged the certificates for their asbestos removal operatives.

The company did this over a period from 16th March 2012 and 10th March 2016.

David Lloyd, Asbestos Operations Manager, had forged the documents.

They included medicals in the name of Lee Cooper, the company Operations Manager, and also forged training certificates for both him and Brendan O’Halloran, the Managing Director.

Greater Manchester Magistrates’ Court heard how the doctor that had allegedly issued these medical certificates had infact retired and was living abroad.

Asbestos removal company prosecuted for obtaining false documents - Excavation & Contracting (UK) Ltd

An HSE investigation concluded that the company had used forged documents in order to obtain an asbestos removal licence from the HSE.

As a result of obtaining forged documents, the company were unable to prove that their operatives were properly trained.

Excavation and Contracting (UK) Ltd of West Quay Road, Warrington, pleaded guilty to breaching Regulations 10(1)(a) and 22(1)(c) of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

They were subsequently fined £13,000 and ordered to pay costs of £10,000.

David Lloyd, of Hanwell Close, Leigh, pleaded guilty to breaching Regulations 10(1)(a) and 22(1)(c) of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

He received a sentence of 12 weeks in prison and was suspended for two years.

Mr Lloyd was also ordered to carry out 200 hours of community service and to pay costs of £1,000.

Lee Cooper, of Shelley Close, Huyton, pleaded guilty to breaching Regulations 10(1)(a) and 22(1)(c) of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

He was ordered to carry out 80 hours of community service and pay costs of £1,000.

HSE speak about the case

Matt Greenly, HSE inspector said of the case, “Putting people at risk from asbestos by not training them or monitoring their health, as required by law, not only puts their lives at risk from an incurable set of diseases, but is also wholly unnecessary.”

“There are ample affordable training providers and approved doctors who can carry out these functions at the convenience of the contractor. Taking deliberate shortcuts by creating forged documents will not be tolerated by HSE and we will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action against those that fall below the required standards.”

So make sure you contact our Armco office to arrange an asbestos survey, before it’s too late! 

Whether you need an asbestos management survey, or a refurbishment/ demolition survey, contact us on 0161 763 3727 or by visiting https://www.armco.org.uk/

Finally, for all your asbestos training needs call 0161 761 4424 or visit https://www.armcoasbestostraining.co.uk/to book an asbestos awareness training course.

Latest News...
19th November 2024Asbestos, a word that makes us all cautious, is a group of natural minerals that have been used for their amazing properties. Heat-resistant, strong and insulating, asbestos fibres were once the backbone of industrial and construction. But beneath these benefits lies a deadly legacy, the composition of asbestos is dangerous when disturbed. Knowing what asbestos […] [...] Read more...
21st October 2024Before the 1980s, asbestos was used in the construction of buildings, especially historic buildings, where it was used for insulation and fireproofing. Many of these buildings still exist, and their age poses special challenges when it comes to managing asbestos safely. Property owners need to understand the risks of asbestos exposure and the precautions that […] [...] Read more...
21st August 2024Asbestos inspections are a critical aspect of maintaining a safe and compliant workplace, particularly in older buildings where asbestos-containing materials may still be present. Understanding the importance of these inspections not only helps protect the health and safety of your employees but also ensures that your business remains in compliance with UK regulations. Failure to […] [...] Read more...
8th July 2024Asbestos, once hailed for its fire-resistant properties, has become notorious for its severe health hazards, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Consequently, countries worldwide have enacted stringent regulations to manage and mitigate these risks. This blog delves into the evolution and current state of asbestos regulations globally, highlighting the differences and similarities across various regions. This […] [...] Read more...
9th April 2024Last Updated on 8th July 2024 by max2021 Asbestos, once hailed for its fire resistance and versatility, has left a hazardous legacy in numerous buildings and constructions. Recognising its dangers, particularly the severe health risks it poses, asbestos awareness training has become not just a precaution but a legal necessity. The significance of such training […] [...] Read more...
20th February 2024Asbestos, once hailed as a wonder material for its fire-resistant properties, has left a complex legacy across the globe, particularly within the construction industry. Its durability and insulating qualities made it a staple in buildings and homes, yet its hazardous impact on health is undeniable. Inhalation of asbestos fibres can lead to serious diseases, including […] [...] Read more...

Published Apr 16, 2018