Asbestos Skips, Van Waste Compartments, Waste Storage and Movement on Site

The Asbestos Network Technical Working Group (AN TWG) has completed another appendix guidance document following a period of development which included supportive input from ASESA members. This latest guidance, Appendix 02/24 Asbestos Skips, Van Waste Compartments, Waste Storage and Movement on Site, sits alongside a growing list of other appendices and memos on the CONIAC website, the definitive home for these.

To ensure only skips that are fit for purpose are used for asbestos removal works, they should meet the following minimum requirements:

• Accessible to allow for:
  • Easy waste handling with minimal lifting
  • Careful waste placement to all areas of skip/waste compartment
  • Inspection and cleaning of all areas
• Sealed (to prevent loss of material) with a closely fastening door/lid that is not warped/damaged (plastic is more prone to warping)
• Easily lockable
• Resistance to water ingress
• Appropriate signage

ASESA Chief Executive Graham Warren commented:

“Following this issue being raised from the more in-depth HSE Licence renewals that started in 2019, the appendix was written with the concept of a fit for purpose skip in mind but applied to waste compartments in vans and so on. The criteria for these therefore being very similar with one notable difference for vans, namely a secondary door should be fitted where the entire rear van compartment or part thereof is used.."

The guidance also provides useful detail on signage requirements, positive pointers around waste movement and temporary storage on site, and clarification of circumstances when waste remains within vehicles overnight.