In this episode, Neil and Ian summarise the findings presented in the recent National Audit Office report on the condition of school buildings.

They explore the startling reality that many school buildings, particularly those beyond their estimated initial design life, contain asbestos.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in public health, education policy, and the ongoing challenge of asbestos management in the UK.

Read the full report - https://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/condition-of-school-buildings.pdf

Get help with asbestos - https://www.acorn-as.com

In this episode, Neil and Ian discuss the findings presented in a recent report produced jointly by ATaC & NORAC two organisations representing the asbestos surveying sector.

The report contains some startling statistics. Neil and Ian discuss the implications of this data, shining a light on the alarming quantity of damaged asbestos especially given that the Duty to Manage regulations aim to maintain asbestos in good condition.

 To view the report: https://www.atac.org.uk/news/first-annual-data-analysis-report-into-asbestos-in-uk-buildings-published

 Get help with asbestos: https://www.acorn-as.com/

In this episode Neil and Ian discuss how do you manage asbestos if it’s left in place. What should you do and what you need to consider when leaving asbestos in place. Get help with asbestos - https://www.acorn-as.com

In this episode Ian and Neil discuss the six things you need to know when reviewing your asbestos information.

1) Historical information - what information do we mean

2) Survey reports - what determines a good report 

3) Removal paperwork - what have you got what story does it tell 

4) What are you doing with all of this information and how to record it

5) Review of the findings - look at it overall and pinpoint holes

6) What next - plan and prioritise asbestos issues you have info on and sites where you don’t have info on.

In this episode Ian and Neil discuss the requirements of Regulation 5 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 – Identification of the presence of asbestos.

If you are a dutyholder , contractor or client find out what your requirement are under this important regulation.

In this episode Ian and Neil discuss what contractors undertaking asbestos non licensed works must have to comply with the asbestos regulations and if air monitoring is a requirement whilst undertaking these works.

Ian and Neil are joined by Michelle Niziol as she shares her view of asbestos within the property and investment arena. Highlighting the lack of understanding experienced by investors and property developers.

Michelle is a hugely successful bussiness women and is recognised as one of the UK’s leading property and finance specialists. Providing regular commentary for The Telegraph, Financial Times, Guardian and Daily Mail. She also has her own columns in industry magazines, such as What Mortgage. 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichelleniziolLtd/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Michelleniziol

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelle_niziol_ltd/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/imsindependentmortgageadvisor/

Join Neil and Ian on location within a typical ex-local authority house. In this episode they talk through some of the common asbestos materials that you can expect to find within these types of properties.

If you’re a property owner, property investor, trades person or DIYer carrying out works in domestic properties this is a must listen.

In this episode Ian and Neil are joined by asbestos expert Yvette Liening as she shares her opinion and knowledge surrounding the asbestos industry and asbestos management in general. Yvette Liening is the Senior Asbestos Officer for Coventry City Council.

In this episode Ian and Neil provide a brief overview of what happens to asbestos waste following removal.

In this episode Ian takes on the role of interviewer to interview Neil. Posing questions around asbestos management, Neil’s career route and his take on the asbestos industry.

In this episode Neil takes on the role of interviewer to interview Ian. Posing questions around asbestos management, Ian’s career route and his take on the asbestos industry.

In this episode Ian and Neil talk through the algorithms of asbestos material assessments and priority risk assessments. These assessments are essential to asbestos management and understanding them is key.

In this episode Neil and Ian discuss how to decide if asbestos works are licensable? What criteria determines if certain works require the use of a licensed asbestos contractor.

Get help with asbestos - https://www.acorn-as.com/

In this episode Ian and Neil explain asbestos emergency situations, when and why these may happen and what to do to minimise exposure.

In this episode Ian and Neil explain what you need to know about asbestos awareness training. What it is, what it should include and what to look for in a trainer.

In this episode Ian and Neil provide information on asbestos refurbishment surveys and demolition surveys covering what they are, when you would require them and what to expect from them.

In this episode Ian and Neil provide information on asbestos management surveys covering what they are, when you would require them and what to expect from them.

In this episode Ian and Neil explain the 8 different asbestos product categories. Every asbestos product that has been created fall into one of the 8 categories. Knowing and understanding the risks associated with each category will help you assess the risk from asbestos materials you may encounter in your building or during you work.

In this episode Ian and Neil provide a brief overview of the history of asbestos in the UK.

In this episode Ian and Neil explain what asbestos is, where it comes from and go into detail explaining the different fibre types.

In this extended episode, Ian and Neil provide essential key asbestos information that every property manager should know. Including an overview on asbestos products and uses, asbestos survey types and what to expect, the survey process and annual requirements, surveyor competence and how to check, contractor competence and how to check and survey report expectations.

In this episode Ian and Neil talk through their simple 7 steps to asbestos management. They explain what every property manager needs to do to become asbestos compliant under Regulation 4 of The Control of Asbestos Regulations in the UK.

In this episode Neil and Ian discuss the worrying increase of asbestos imports into the US and what that could mean to the UK. Get help with asbestos - https://www.acorn-as.com

In this episode Neil and Ian launch Acorn Analytical Service free to use asbestos review surgery.

If you're not sure or think there may be gaps in your asbestos management and compliance, then book your FREE asbestos review surgery with our asbestos expert Ian Stone.

This is a free 30-minute video call where you get the opportunity to discuss and diagnose your current asbestos compliance status.

https://calendly.com/ian-stone/asbestos-review-surgery

In this episode Neil and Ian highlight the importance of thinking about asbestos as we all look at returning to our places of work.

In this episode Neil and Ian are providing you with the 4 essential questions you should use to check if your workplace, school or any non-domestic property is asbestos safe. The purpose of this is to help raise awareness of asbestos and effective asbestos management and to give non industry related people the knowledge to start raising this issue in their community.
 
The following should be in place in any non-domestic property. This could be a school where your children go, an office or warehouse where you work or even your place of worship.

1. Do you have an asbestos management plan and if so, please provide a copy?
All non-domestic premises built before the year 2000 must have an asbestos management plan.

2. Has asbestos been identified at your site? Please provide up to date records.
Asbestos that’s identified is usually detailed in an asbestos register.

3. Are all asbestos containing materials in a good condition? Please provide evidence.
Asbestos in a good condition means that it is being managed properly.

4. Has the risk of people being exposed to asbestos been assessed? Please provide a copy of these assessments.
This usually comes in the form of a priority risk assessment. These assessments look at the risk of people being exposed to asbestos and not just the asbestos material itself.

In this episode Neil and Ian discuss the recent news of a pupil kicking a hole in a wall which was found to contain asbestos. In 2021 how can this be a sudden accident?

In this episode, Neil and Ian are joined by Mavis Nye and Paul Cook representing ActionMeso.

#ActionMeso is a campaign that brings together the diverse mesothelioma community with a single voice.

It is the first time that so many patient support groups and charities have joined forces to raise awareness of mesothelioma.

Their aim is also to get the rest of the mesothelioma community on board including patients, carers, healthcare & legal professionals together with the asbestos removal firms and the construction industry.

Paul Cook - Bio

"In 2017, I was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma. At that time I was running a business, was fairly active nut then got pneumonia and my lung collapsed. I was then informed that I had terminal cancer. During various treatments including chemotherapy, surgery to remove the lining of my lung and radiotherapy I decided that, if I made it through, I would start a charity dedicated to find raising funds for research into a cure or at least maintenance of this terrible illness.

Since starting Erase Meso along with my wife, Jill and the other Trustees we have come into contact with some amazing people including mesowarriors, carers, supporters or people within the medical profession. We believe we can make a real difference as mesothelioma research is dreadfully underfunded.

My best moment so far was cycling over 900 miles across the UK last year. The support was incredible and so many people helped me get there. In 2020, I am excited that we will be making our first grant which will be the start of many!"

https://www.erasemeso.org/

Mavis Nye - Bio

“My journey with Mesothelioma began as so many Patients find with the day I couldn’t breathe.
I was rushed to A&E and they had found a bed for me,where they drained 7ltrs of fluid. So my lung had collapsed, and my diaphragm had bent.
They found Mesothelioma cells when testing the fluid. And I was given a 3 months Prodgnosis.
After going to Guys hospital, where I had a pleurodesis, I came home with a drain.
The Bi-op that had been carried out at the same time confirmed the Diagnosis.

4 Years of Chemotherapy then followed with shrinkage then regrowth 4 times within those years. I became too toxic and I was told there was no more treatment.
I had already made it known I was interested in any trial and Immunotherapy was just being investigated.
MSD had this trial at the Royal Marsden and I was referred there on my request as Dean Fennel thought it would suit me. Prof De Bono agreed, and I was one of 3 patients to start MK3475-28.
I had complete response. It was only because I had Sepsis right at the end of the 2 year trial that I didn’t get that result included in the final figures in  time so I'm under the heading of ongoing. That was disappointing.

I had 2 years freedom but then last March new growth showed. The old Meso was still in remission though. The new growth was bi-oped and it was found it was full of PDL1 whereas I only had 1% before.
I became the first patients in the world to re-challenge the drug. Within 4 infusions it shrunk 14% and then stopped.
It is growing again very slowly, not enough to bi-op yet. The Royal Marsden have matched my DNA to a drug that they can use to boost Pembro and maybe kick it in to work again. That is in the future.

I keep busy raising awareness of Asbestos and the dangers to Health and Safety today as the tradesmen work where the asbestos is hiding and the awareness of how important it is to use the right mask and to have Face/Fit training.
Also the Awareness of Mesothelioma and how we need to talk to each other. I run the Social Media as well as My Charity The Mavis Nye Foundation.”

https://www.mavisnyefoundation.com/

Get help with asbestos - https://www.acorn-as.com/ 

In this episode Neil and Ian deep dive into looking at what contractors should do when attending sites. They cover what should happen with planned works as well as reactive works. Contractors should be assessing all risks including asbestos. How can you help to prevent people from being exposed to asbestos when instructing contractors to carry out works on your site?

Get help with asbestos - https://www.acorn-as.com/ 

In this episode, Neil and Ian highlight the importance of reviewing your entire asset register so it includes all possible locations which may contain asbestos.

Your asbestos register should include all everyday use buildings but also all non-used buildings, structures and equipment.

Get help with asbestos - https://www.acorn-as.com/ 

In this episode, Neil and Ian speak to Charles Pickles who provides his in-depth opinion on the current asbestos management requirements and what should be changed.

Charles Pickles is a renowned figure in the field of asbestos consultancy with a career dedicated to campaigning for pragmatic solutions to asbestos issues. He co-founded Lucion Environmental in 2002, which became the UK’s largest asbestos consultancy by the time of his exit in 2019.

Since leaving Lucion he's been an active campaigner for improvements in asbestos management including:

• Airtight on asbestos campaign
• European Asbestos Forum
• Asbestonomy
• Written evidence to parliamentary committees 

Charles Pickles - https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-pickles-05889032/

Get help with asbestos - https://www.acorn-as.com

In this episode Neil and Ian discuss a recent case where a hotel owner was fined for delaying essential asbestos removal works.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leeds-55329069

Get help with asbestos - https://www.acorn-as.com/ 

In the episode Neil and Ian are joined by fellow Acorn Director Paul Knights to discuss UKAS accreditation and its importance for asbestos companies?

In this episode Neil and Ian discuss the case of Bernard Jones against Richard Branson and Virgin records. Mr. Jones claims he was exposed to asbestos whilst working at the company's London stores in the 1970s.

In this episode Neil and Ian discuss the recent pardoning of David Rowland for violations of the Clean Air Act by removing asbestos without a valid license.

In this episode Neil and Ian are excited to announce the release of The Asbestos Epidemic. A new 4-Part documentary series for people with asbestos problems. A must-see for every person who needs to master asbestos management which prevents exposure, prevents prosecution and keeps you and your building occupants safe.

Here the trailer in this episode.

To watch the full series, go here

https://www.acorn-as.com/watch-the-asbestos-epidemic/

Join Ian and Neil in this live recording of a CPD for architects and building consultants. In this CPD they cover:

• Asbestos products and uses
• Asbestos survey types and what to expect
• The survey process and annual requirements
• Surveyor & Contractor competence and how to check
• Survey report expectations
• Regulation main points
• Creating Asbestos Management Plans

In this episode Neil and Ian discuss issues and points to consider with asbestos, boilers, plant and M & E.

In this episode Neil and Ian talk about the recently released government guidance - Asbestos management in schools. Guidance for school leaders, governors, local authorities and academy trusts about managing asbestos in schools and colleges.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/asbestos-management-in-schools

In this episode Neil and Ian raise the point that it’s time to get rid of your paper signing in sheets for a more qualified asbestos register acknowledgement system.

In this episode Neil and Ian discuss the importance of ensuring your premises is Covid secure.

In this episode, Neil and Ian sit down with Robin Bennett. Robin is a renowned figure in the asbestos software industry.

Today, Robin will share his insights on a groundbreaking report that analyzes a massive data set of 3 million asbestos samples. Gathered through their state-of-the-art software, Alpha Tracker, this is one of the most comprehensive studies of its kind.

Alpha Tracker-  https://alpha-tracker.co.uk/

Damage Report: https://alpha-tracker.co.uk/damage - people can order a printed copy of the report. 

Get help with asbestos - https://www.acorn-as.com

In this episode Neil and Ian highlight the issues when high risk asbestos materials are discovered and what actions you should consider immediately.

In this episode Neil and Ian talk about the issues with using asbestos databases, the roll out of them and implementation of them.

In this episode Neil and Ian discuss the importance of asbestos management audits. Why are these audits so vital for effective asbestos management?

In this episode Neil and Ian share their views on the recent ResPublica policy paper - Hazardous Homes To Let: Protecting Renters from Asbestos

In this episode Neil and Ian discuss the worrying and significate downturn in asbestos training which has occurred during the Covid 19 pandemic.

In this episode, Neil and Ian highlight the 10 essential features your asbestos database should include.

1. Zero cost
2. 24/7 access to your data any time anywhere
3. Live up to the minute data
4. Store unlimited amount of data / reports
5. User friendly reporting systems on your asbestos information
6. Data exporting facilities
7. Geolocations of sites across your portfolio
8. Unlimited logins for all your contractors, customisable by you
9. Client storage facilities for all your compliance needs
10. Customisable dashboards & asbestos data reports

In this episode, Neil and Ian introduce you to the UK’S only fully documented and systemised asbestos management process – The Acorn Asbestos Antidote ©