Ucatt calls for action over asbestos breaches
October 13, 2008
A construction union has called for the sacking of a housing association manager after he was shown on a BBC programme refusing workers masks while they were drilling asbestos.
Inside Out also shows managing director of Carlisle Housing Association Patrick Leonard failing to provide protective clothing for those working with the substance.
In reaction, the Union of Construction Allied Trades and Technicians (Ucatt) has called for his resignation.
"His position is entirely untenable and he must be replaced immediately," the organisation's general secretary Alan Ritchie asserts.
In an interview with the BBC, Mr Leonard claims his employees share responsibility with their managers for health and safety lapses.
Ucatt describes these statements as "disgraceful" and condemns his attempts as trying to absolve himself from fault.
In related asbestos news, Cal Max Construction recently pleaded guilty to burning building debris near Newmarket which contained dangerous asbestos material.
Scottish Environment Protection Agency investigating officer Jamie Hepburn claimed attempting to destroy material in this way creates fumes which could be dangerous to those nearby.
Inside Out also shows managing director of Carlisle Housing Association Patrick Leonard failing to provide protective clothing for those working with the substance.
In reaction, the Union of Construction Allied Trades and Technicians (Ucatt) has called for his resignation.
"His position is entirely untenable and he must be replaced immediately," the organisation's general secretary Alan Ritchie asserts.
In an interview with the BBC, Mr Leonard claims his employees share responsibility with their managers for health and safety lapses.
Ucatt describes these statements as "disgraceful" and condemns his attempts as trying to absolve himself from fault.
In related asbestos news, Cal Max Construction recently pleaded guilty to burning building debris near Newmarket which contained dangerous asbestos material.
Scottish Environment Protection Agency investigating officer Jamie Hepburn claimed attempting to destroy material in this way creates fumes which could be dangerous to those nearby.
More Asbestos news:
Council sued over exposure to asbestos at school - January 5, 2009Selfridges 'put workers at risk' - December 23, 2008
HSE and Homebase raise asbestos awareness - December 19, 2008
Firm fined GBP 253,000 after asbestos death - December 18, 2008
Asbestos 'blamed for man's death' - December 18, 2008
