How Technology Is Helping Manage Asbestos in Road Infrastructure in the UK

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Asbestos, once hailed for its insulating and fireproofing properties, is now recognized as a significant health hazard. Its presence in the UK's aging road infrastructure poses risks to workers, road users, and the environment. To tackle this challenge, the UK has adopted a comprehensive and tech-driven approach, anchored by the General Asbestos Management Plan (GAMP) by the Highways Agency (HA). This detailed plan integrates regulations, strategic planning, and technological innovation to manage asbestos in road infrastructure effectively.

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In this blog, we’ll explore how technology is transforming asbestos management in the UK’s road network, based on the HA’s GAMP and related strategic documents.

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Understanding the Problem: Asbestos in Road Infrastructure

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Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACMs) were widely used in UK road and building infrastructure until they were banned in 1999. Given that a significant portion of the strategic road network (SRN) was constructed before this ban, the risk of ACMs lurking in infrastructure is high.

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Common asbestos-affected assets include:

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• Bridge components (bearings, joint fillers, waterproofing systems)

• Drainage systems and communication ducts

• Electrical cabinets and lighting columns

• Tunnels, especially insulation and cladding

• Buildings at depots, picnic areas, and control centres

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Left unmanaged, these materials pose severe health risks, particularly during construction, maintenance, or demolition activities.

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The Regulatory Framework: Control of Asbestos Regulations (CAR) 2006

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Under Regulation 4 of CAR 2006, the “Duty to Manage” asbestos rests with asset owners or those responsible for maintenance. The HA's General Asbestos Management Plan (GAMP) outlines the processes and obligations needed to comply with these regulations.

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Highlights of CAR 2006’s implications for HA:

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• Requires systematic identification and management of ACMs

• Mandates the production of Asbestos Action Plans (AAPs)

• Prioritizes older assets and high-risk areas for inspection and control

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HA’s Strategic Approach: The General Asbestos Management Plan (GAMP)

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What is GAMP?

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GAMP is a national strategy introduced by the Highways Agency to ensure compliance with CAR 2006. It is designed to manage asbestos risks across approximately 7,500 km of highway and over 16,000 associated structures.

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Key Objectives:

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• Ensure full coverage of the road network with Asbestos Action Plans by 2025

• Introduce Scheme Asbestos Management Plans (SAMPs) for major projects

• Foster collaboration between HA Service Providers, Technology Contractors, and other stakeholders

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Asset Types Covered

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The plan applies to:

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• Road surfaces and subsurfaces

• Structures such as bridges and culverts

• Tunnels and associated M&E equipment

• Operational buildings including depots and RCCs

• Communication and electrical infrastructure

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Leveraging Technology for Effective Asbestos Management

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1. Digital Mapping and Survey Databases

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A cornerstone of the plan is the use of structured digital databases such as:

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• TPMS (Technology Performance Management System)

• HAPMS (Highway Agency Pavement Management System)

• SMIS (Structures Management Information System)

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These platforms store, manage, and allow rapid access to survey data and AAPs. Service providers upload digital PDF records tagged for efficient retrieval, enabling real-time decision-making during works planning and execution.

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2. AI and Sensor-Based Inspections

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Emerging technologies such as drones and sensor-based systems are gradually supplementing manual surveys. These tools enhance detection capabilities in inaccessible or high-risk zones like bridges and tunnels, reducing human exposure during assessments.

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3. Online Asbestos Risk Portals

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Providers can review, update, and share asbestos risk data in real-time using online platforms. This ensures all stakeholders—from emergency services to private developers—have access to current asbestos information.

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Structured Planning: Action Plans and Prioritization

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5% Yearly Coverage Model

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To meet the 2025 goal, HA requires service providers to:

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• Cover at least 5% of their responsible network area annually

• Prioritize oldest and most likely contaminated areas

• Integrate asbestos inspections with scheduled maintenance and upgrades

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Dedicated Plans:

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• AAPs: Created for every 5 km segment of highway

• TNAMP: Tailored plan for managing asbestos in technology assets

• NRTSAMP: Management plan for National Roads Telecommunications Services assets

• SAMPs: Created at the design stage of major projects

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Process Control and Quality Assurance

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Monitoring and Audits

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Monthly reporting, audit trails, and feedback mechanisms are embedded into the system. The HA’s Asbestos Management Team (HAAMT) uses data from:

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• Performance audits

• Self-audits by contractors

• MPD project reviews

• Monthly reporting from Area Providers

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Continuous Improvement

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The GAMP is reviewed annually based on performance metrics and stakeholder feedback. This adaptive management model ensures that the strategy remains aligned with changing conditions and evolving technologies.

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Training and Collaboration: Human-Centric Technology Integration

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Technology alone isn’t enough—competent, trained professionals are vital for successful implementation.

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Training Requirements:

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• Every Provider must have designated trained AAP Owners

• Training must meet Regulation 10 of CAR 2006

• Providers are responsible for ensuring their team remains qualified

• HAAMT supplies training materials upon request

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Inter-agency Collaboration

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From emergency services to local councils, all third parties working around the SRN must be informed of asbestos risks. This coordination is supported by accessible data systems and clear communication protocols.

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Exclusions and Limitations

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The GAMP does not apply to:

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• Properties under the HA’s Property Management & Disposals Division

• Private infrastructure assets not maintained by Providers

• Motorway service areas managed by third-party leaseholders

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Such assets have separate asbestos management arrangements defined by their own duty holders under CAR 2006.

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Future Outlook: Technology as the Enabler of Safer Roads

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The UK’s proactive stance on asbestos management through a tech-powered and regulation-compliant framework sets a benchmark for infrastructure safety. As we move toward 100% AAP coverage by 2025, the integration of AI, digital mapping, and smart data systems will continue to improve efficiency, reduce risks, and protect the health of workers and road users alike.

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Conclusion

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Managing asbestos in the UK's vast road infrastructure is a monumental task—but one that is being addressed with strategic foresight, robust regulatory backing, and a strong reliance on technology. From data-driven survey systems to collaborative platforms and smart inspection tools, the UK’s approach offers a model for other nations grappling with legacy infrastructure issues.

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