Newport has established itself as one of South Wales’ key logistics and distribution centres. Its excellent transport links, industrial estates and warehousing facilities make it an attractive location for manufacturers, retailers and national distribution businesses.
Many of these facilities, however, were constructed during periods when asbestos-containing materials were widely used throughout the construction industry.
One of the biggest misconceptions we encounter is that asbestos only becomes an issue during demolition work.
In reality, warehouse environments are constantly changing. New racking systems are installed, offices are extended, electrical infrastructure is upgraded and loading facilities are modified. All of these activities can disturb asbestos-containing materials if they have not been properly identified.
After more than 22 years supporting commercial and industrial clients, we’ve found that the safest and most cost-effective projects begin with reliable information.
Why This Matters in Newport
Newport’s logistics sector includes:
- Distribution centres
- National warehouse operators
- Manufacturing facilities
- Freight and transport businesses
- Industrial estates
- Storage facilities
Many buildings within these sectors were constructed before asbestos was banned and may contain asbestos within:
- Roof sheets
- Ceiling systems
- Wall panels
- Service risers
- Pipe insulation
- Floor coverings
- Plant rooms
- Electrical ducts
The presence of asbestos does not automatically present a risk.
The risk arises when materials are unknowingly disturbed during maintenance or refurbishment.
What Does the Law Say?
The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 places duties on those responsible for non-domestic premises to identify and manage asbestos risks appropriately.
For warehouse and logistics facilities, this means taking reasonable steps to:
- Identify asbestos-containing materials
- Assess their condition
- Maintain appropriate records
- Manage risks effectively
- Ensure contractors receive relevant asbestos information before work begins
The objective is to protect employees, contractors and visitors while allowing operations to continue safely.
Why Warehouses Present Unique Challenges
Unlike many office environments, warehouses are continually evolving.
Typical activities include:
- Installing new storage systems
- Expanding office accommodation
- Upgrading lighting
- Replacing mechanical services
- Installing conveyor systems
- Altering loading bays
- Expanding production areas
Many of these projects involve intrusive works that require appropriate asbestos information before they begin.
What Good Asbestos Management Looks Like
1. Accurate asbestos information
Good decisions begin with reliable surveys.
Assumptions should never replace evidence.
2. Keeping asbestos registers up to date
Warehouse environments change frequently.
Asbestos information should be reviewed whenever significant works are planned.
3. Informing contractors
One of the biggest risks occurs when maintenance contractors begin work without access to asbestos information.
Communication is essential.
4. Planning refurbishment properly
Before intrusive works begin, the appropriate survey should be commissioned so projects can proceed with confidence.
5. Integrating asbestos into facilities management
The best organisations treat asbestos management as part of their wider maintenance strategy rather than a separate compliance exercise.
Common Mistakes We See
Assuming previous surveys are still sufficient
Buildings evolve and so should asbestos information.
Waiting until maintenance begins
The most expensive discoveries are often those made after contractors have arrived.
Treating asbestos as simply paperwork
Good asbestos information supports planning, budgeting and operational continuity.
Failing to communicate information
An asbestos register has little value if contractors never see it.
What We’ve Learned in 22 Years
Across industrial and logistics projects, one lesson stands out:
The organisations that experience the fewest problems are not those with the newest buildings—they are those with the best information.
Reliable asbestos information allows maintenance and refurbishment projects to be planned efficiently, reducing unexpected disruption and protecting everyone working on site.
The Core Surveys Perspective
At Core Surveys, we understand that warehouse and logistics facilities cannot simply stop operating because maintenance work is required.
Our role is to provide practical information that allows organisations to plan confidently while maintaining compliance and operational efficiency.
Because we undertake asbestos surveys, sample analysis and air monitoring through our own experienced team, clients benefit from coordinated services, faster turnaround times and consistent reporting.
We’ve supported organisations ranging from individual warehouse operators to national logistics businesses, NHS organisations, universities, local authorities and the Ministry of Defence.
Our philosophy remains straightforward:
Reliable information obtained early keeps projects moving safely and efficiently.
If This Were Our Warehouse…
If we were responsible for a warehouse or logistics facility in Newport, we would:
- Maintain an up-to-date asbestos register.
- Review asbestos information before every intrusive maintenance project.
- Ensure contractors receive relevant information before arriving on site.
- Commission Refurbishment & Demolition Surveys where appropriate.
- Integrate asbestos management into wider facilities management planning.
- Use UKAS accredited organisations for surveys and analysis.
Our Recommendations
Based on our experience, we recommend that warehouse and logistics operators:
- Plan asbestos surveys early.
- Keep asbestos records under regular review.
- Share information with contractors before work begins.
- Integrate asbestos management into maintenance planning.
- Use UKAS accredited organisations.
- View asbestos management as an operational planning tool rather than simply a compliance requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every warehouse require an asbestos survey?
The requirement depends on the age of the building and the planned works. However, many warehouses constructed before the asbestos ban may contain asbestos-containing materials that should be appropriately identified and managed.
Can warehouse operations continue if asbestos is present?
Yes, in many cases asbestos can be safely managed if it remains in good condition and is unlikely to be disturbed. The appropriate approach depends on professional assessment.
Why is contractor communication so important?
Many asbestos incidents occur when contractors unknowingly disturb asbestos-containing materials. Providing accurate information before work begins significantly reduces this risk.
Can Core Surveys support national logistics operators with multiple sites?
Yes. Core Surveys regularly supports organisations managing extensive commercial and industrial property portfolios, providing surveys, sample analysis and air monitoring through one coordinated team.
Why Organisations Choose Core Surveys
- Over 22 years of asbestos industry experience
- UKAS accredited for asbestos surveys, sample analysis and air monitoring
- Surveys, testing and air monitoring delivered under one roof
- In-house laboratory facilities for faster turnaround
- Dedicated project coordinators
- Offices in East Sussex and South Wales
- Nationwide capability
- Experience supporting logistics operators, manufacturers, NHS organisations, universities, local authorities, national contractors and the Ministry of Defence
Our objective is not simply to identify asbestos—it is to provide practical information that helps organisations manage risk, maintain compliance and keep their operations running smoothly.
Core Principle
The best-managed warehouses aren’t those with no asbestos—they’re the ones where asbestos is understood, planned for and managed effectively.
Contact Core Surveys
If you’re responsible for a warehouse or logistics facility in Newport and would like expert advice on asbestos management, speak to the experienced team at Core Surveys. We’ll recommend the appropriate surveys, explain the process clearly and provide practical guidance based on more than 22 years of real-world experience.