On Friday 28 September 2007, Seacroft (Hemsby) Limited, who operate the Seacroft Holiday park on Beach Road, Hemsby pleaded guilty to eleven charges under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2006, at Great Yarmouth Magistrates Court.
During a routine health and safety inspection in October 2006, an Environmental Health Officer discovered that during refurbishment works at the site, asbestos containing materials had been damaged and that asbestos containing materials had also been left in an area to which the public had access. An immediate decontamination of the area was subsequently undertaken.
During further inspection it also became apparent that there were a number of other locations where asbestos containing materials were found to be in poor condition and were likely to release fibres. The company had arranged for an ‘asbestos survey’ to be undertaken in 2005 but had failed to take the remedial action deemed as necessary in the report.
It was reported that Seacroft (Hemsby) Limited had previously been issued with a formal caution in 2004 after asbestos materials had not been managed in a proper manner.
Great Yarmouth Magistrates Court warded the company a fine totalling £18,750 and awarded Great Yarmouth Borough Council costs of £860.
Kate Watts, Environmental Health’s Commercial Team Manager said: “Asbestos remains the biggest cause of work related death with approximately 3,500 people annually dying of asbestos related diseases after being exposed to fibres.
“It is therefore absolutely essential that companies are aware of their duties in respect of managing asbestos correctly. Failing to manage asbestos could result in the death of those exposed to fibres and costly prosecution action being brought against the company.”
For further information contact Kate Watts, Environmental Health’s Commercial Team Manager on 01493 846547 or email kaw@great-yarmouth.gov.uk.