Page 12 - A National Asbestos Strategy

IDENTIFY PROPERTIES
To build a central national database, it is necessary first to identify the premises where asbestos
may be present. The first step would be to use postal addresses, but having a unique identifier
where an address is unavailable is challenging. The Ordnance Survey has completed work on
assigning UPRNs (Unique Property Reference Numbers) to all UK postal addresses. However, for
sites with multiple buildings, only one UPRN may exist. In such cases, Ordnance Survey maps play
a crucial role in identifying and updating the database.
Over the past six months, Asbestos Information CIC has reviewed this information and developed
mechanisms for linking all surveys to Ordnance Survey UPRNs.
Incorporating Ordnance Survey data into the database would facilitate the identification of sites
without asbestos records, providing a long-term solution for measuring and mapping compliance.
We aim to collaborate with the Ordnance Survey to determine how age and property-type-related
data can generate suitable lists and map gaps in occupancy and risk.
As part of the overall strategy, a standardised pick list of property types will be necessary, as
current databases and surveying consultancies use varying methods for classification. This list will
consider occupational risk and the vulnerability of occupants and users, enabling different strategic
approaches for various property types.
RATIONALISE THE DATA
Asbestos surveys can be complex and lengthy documents. Producing a database with potentially
millions of differently formatted documents presents many challenges.
Those tasked with managing asbestos in buildings often complain about the difficulty of
understanding survey reports. For many, this does not help when trying to manage asbestos or
develop an asbestos strategy. Duty-holders struggle to manage asbestos because reports are
complex and inconsistent.
Using the models Asbestos Information CIC have developed so far, existing data can be used to
produce a national database. As more asbestos surveys, re-inspections, and audits are undertaken,
the data quality will improve, allowing for enhanced decision-making.
Current and future asbestos surveys will be enhanced if the surveying industry, HSE, and
accreditation bodies agree on the data structure and terminology. This improvement is crucial for
achieving greater data accuracy, which is necessary for creating a clearer understanding of the
UK’s asbestos inventory and for developing a national strategy.
www.asbestosinformation.org.uk
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