NHS Trusts face some of the most significant challenges when it comes to ensuring asbestos is managed safely in situ.

These challenges are compounded by:

• Extensive Estates: Large buildings, many of which are old and contain high numbers of occupants.
• Difficult Access: High and continuously occupied areas that are hard to access for inspection or remediation.
• Ageing Infrastructure: Many NHS buildings are outdated and past their "sell-by date," with changing functions and evolving maintenance needs.
• Maintenance Backlog: A backlog of repairs exacerbated by budgetary constraints.
• Widespread Asbestos: Thousands of Asbestos Containing Materials (ACMs) or presumed ACMs are still present in NHS buildings, with estimates suggesting around 70% of these structures contain asbestos, many in a degrading state.

Complex Dutyholder Responsibilities and Budget Constraints

The management of asbestos is further complicated by limited budgets for its removal and the tightening financial constraints on building maintenance and safety compliance. Shared responsibility for asbestos management across different teams and agencies adds to the complexity. Furthermore, the presence of numerous contractors working on NHS estates, who may not always be under direct management, increases the risk and complicates oversight. 

Fragmented Information Sources

Asbestos-related information is often outdated and scattered across various compliance systems, CAFM platforms, or, in some cases, still managed using spreadsheets. The involvement of multiple asbestos contractors in various aspects of asbestos management—such as surveys, re-inspections, and removal—creates inconsistency and makes it difficult to maintain a cohesive approach. 

Challenges in Standardisation

Given these complexities, delivering a simple, standardized approach with clear accountability is a significant challenge. Additionally, the rising number and value of claims, heightened media scrutiny, and increasing freedom of information requests only amplify the pressure. 

The Need for Modern IT Systems

To manage these challenges effectively, NHS Trusts require modern, adaptable IT solutions—systems that are flexible, scalable, and cost-effective.

How Asbestos SMART Can Help 

Asbestos SMART was specifically designed to help dutyholders navigate these challenges more effectively, offering a comprehensive solution for managing asbestos safely. It streamlines processes, enhances visibility, and ensures compliance.

With Asbestos SMART, NHS Trusts have instant access, 24/7, to information relating to all identified asbestos materials in their buildings. Using a smartphone or tablet, staff can scan a unique, site-specific QR code, eliminating the need for hard copy manuals or filing systems.

NHS estates and maintenance contractors can gain real-time visibility of asbestos locations before beginning any work. This helps to mitigate the risk of accidental disturbance or exposure and reduces the costs associated with project delays when unknown asbestos is discovered during work.