Wind Power: Asbestos
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment his Department has made of the prevalence of asbestos-containing materials in components used in wind turbines operating in the UK; what information his Department holds on the number of turbines identified as containing such materials; what assessment he has made of the potential risks to (a) workers involved in the installation, maintenance and decommissioning of wind turbines and (b) members of the public; and what steps his Department is taking to ensure the safe identification, removal and replacement of any affected components and to prevent the importation of asbestos-containing materials.
Answered by Michael Shanks
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is leading work with industry to establish the extent of any asbestos-containing components in wind turbines operating in the United Kingdom. DESNZ does not hold comprehensive data on the number of affected turbines.
The Government takes health and safety risks across the wind supply chain very seriously and expects all developers and suppliers to comply fully with existing legislation, including strict controls governing hazardous materials such as asbestos.
HSE has advised that, where present, asbestos is contained within sealed systems and monitoring has not identified airborne fibres or evidence of risk to workers or the public. They will continue to work with industry to ensure it delivers safe and prompt removal of affected components.
Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →