A Bedfordshire based contractor has been fined after failing to carry out suitable assessment of asbestos removal work.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) had the demolition work, which was undertaken in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire reported to 16 April 2015 by a member of the public, which prompted an investigation into the work.

The investigation found that the contractor did not adequately check the pre-demolition asbestos survey before carrying out the work, and did not follow advice to use a licensed asbestos removal contractor.

Speaking after the hearing HSE inspector Alison Outhwaite said: “The safety failings in this case could have led to severe illness in later years.

“Duty holders have the responsibility to ensure that adequate assessments take place to avoid the risk of asbestos exposure. This includes checking the accuracy and clarity of any information provided by others.”