Summary:
Two Midlands companies, Sohan Group Limited and Maize Metals Limited, along with site manager Ali Raza Baig, have been prosecuted after a large-scale asbestos disturbance and illegal clearance operation at a Cannock demolition site. Demolition work was halted in September 2023 after asbestos was discovered, with a survey revealing 218m² of asbestos-containing materials. Sohan Group, the client, failed to appoint a principal contractor and improperly engaged an unlicensed company (Disa Properties Limited) and individual (Ali Raza Baig) to manage the asbestos clear-up, despite an initial survey and a quote from a licensed contractor. Maize Metals, the demolition contractor, proceeded with work despite knowing asbestos was present. Ali Raza Baig, representing Disa Properties, lacked the necessary license or competence and failed to implement appropriate safety measures, putting workers and the public at risk of exposure to the deadly carcinogen.
Analysis:
This case highlights a profound failure in planning, management, and adherence to critical health and safety regulations concerning asbestos. The client’s decision to bypass licensed asbestos removal in favour of an unlicensed and incompetent party demonstrates a severe disregard for worker and public safety, likely driven by cost-cutting. The demolition contractor’s actions, continuing work despite known asbestos, further compounds the negligence. The significant fines levied against the companies and the suspended prison sentence, director disqualification, and curfew for the site manager underscore the seriousness with which the HSE and courts view such breaches. It serves as a stark reminder that proper asbestos surveys, the appointment of competent contractors, and strict adherence to the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 and Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 are non-negotiable for preventing exposure to a known fatal carcinogen.
Article Link:
https://press.hse.gov.uk/2026/03/09/two-companies-and-site-manager-prosecuted-following-large-scale-asbestos-disturbance/