Environmental Essentials Leads Groundbreaking Asbestos Removal and Training Initiative in The Gambia
Environmental Essentials has been leading consultancy for a transformative asbestos removal project in The Gambia on behalf of our client. This initiative has been carried out in accordance with UK asbestos management standards, aiming not only to remove hazardous materials safely from premises within the site but also to establish a long-term asbestos management strategy.
Environmental Essentials engaged with UK Licensed Asbestos Removal Contractors (LARCs) to undertake the initial asbestos removal works, forming the foundation of a structured five-year programme. A key aspect of this project is its focus on sustainability, with the ambition of training and developing a local workforce capable of independently handling asbestos removal in the future.
Building a Skilled Local Workforce
A significant milestone in this initiative came when Environmental Essentials and our client partnered with the Asbestos Removal Contractors Association (ARCA) to provide formal training for six Gambian trainees. These operatives have progressively developed their skills throughout the course of the works, with the ultimate goal of replacing UK-based labour once they achieve the required competency levels.
To further strengthen local capability, Supervisor and Auditor training has also been provided to an additional five members of the Gambian team. This continued investment in skills development is intended to create a self-sufficient asbestos management team in The Gambia, ensuring the longevity and sustainability of the programme.
An additional benefit of training a local team is the significant environmental impact: it is estimated to have saved 12 return flights per year, resulting in a reduction of approximately 292.8 tonnes of COā over a four- to five-year timeframe.