The Project Manager’s Guide to Asbestos Compliance in Hotels.

Project Managers in the hospitality sector carry a unique responsibility: delivering refurbishments, fit-outs, or maintenance works safely, on time and within budget. When asbestos is in the mix, the stakes are even higher. Mismanagement can mean delays, spiralling costs, legal action, or serious health risks.

Here’s a clear guide to what every Project Manager should do when managing asbestos on hotel projects.

Before issuing any order for maintenance, installation, refurbishment or repair works, the project manager shall:

1. define the scope of works and identify the areas affected by the proposed works;

2. review the asbestos register, asbestos management plan and relevant survey information for the work area;

3. determine whether the available asbestos information is suitable for the proposed works;

4. arrange a refurbishment and demolition survey or additional sampling where existing asbestos information is incomplete or unsuitable for the planned works;

5. where necessary, arrange for asbestos remedial works to be completed by a licensed asbestos contractor before the planned works commence;

6. provide the contractor with all relevant asbestos information before work commences;

7. ensure the contractor acknowledges receipt and understanding of the asbestos information;

8. verify that operatives have received appropriate asbestos awareness training relevant to the planned works;

9. ensure no intrusive works commence until asbestos risks have been assessed and appropriate control measures are in place;

10. seek competent asbestos advice where there is any uncertainty regarding the presence, condition or management of asbestos-containing materials.

Where the scope of works changes during the project, work shall cease until the revised scope has been assessed against the available asbestos information. Where necessary, further asbestos investigation or asbestos remedial works shall be completed before work re-commences.

Handover Asbestos information at the End

At project completion, hand over:

• Asbestos survey reports reflecting any newly identified asbestos.

• A revised asbestos register if required.

• Evidence of clearance certificates for any licensed works.

• Consignment notes, proving safe and legal waste disposal.

• Notes in the health and safety file for future projects and facilities management.

This ensures the hotel is left compliant, safe, and ready for future inspections.

The Shortcut for Project Managers

Just like general managers, project managers benefit most from getting top quality training first.

Knowing the asbestos essentials equips you to:

• Ask the right questions.

• Appoint the right people.

• Avoid delays and disputes.

• Hand over with confidence.

Our UKATA-accredited training gives you the knowledge and authority to manage asbestos issues in hotel projects from start to finish.

👉 Learn more here: Asbestos Training for Hotel Projects
👉 Book your place here: Asbestos Awareness + Duty to Manage Training

Final Word

As a Project Manager, your role isn’t to do the asbestos work yourself - it’s to make sure the contractors fulfil their legal duties. By asking the right questions, instructing the right asbestos surveys, and handing over the right documents, you keep the project safe, compliant and on track.

And the fastest way to do that with confidence?

Get trained, get compliant, and lead from the front.