Knight Frank Signs Up To Asbestos Smart Technology System

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29 July 2020

The UK National Asbestos Register has announced a new partnership with Knight Frank, the UK's leading independent real estate consultancy.

Knight Frank has signed up to trial the UK National Asbestos Register’s (UKNAR) Asbestos SMART QR code technology across its prestigious London commercial property portfolio.

UKNAR’s Asbestos SMART system is intended to create a safer environment for contractors, landlords and building occupiers. By scanning a unique site-specific QR code, estates management and building maintenance teams will have instant access to all known asbestos across the property portfolio, via mobile phone or tablet.

"Today everyone has access to a mobile phone, so by using the latest simple smart technology, we can protect contractors, visitors and occupiers alike.”

–Jason Taylor

Head of Facilities Management, Knight Frank

Easier Access to Asbestos SMART Register

Jason Taylor, Head of Facilities Management, Knight Frank, London, commented: “There is a human element in the world of property which is often overlooked. We are dedicated to delivering innovative, cost-effective, best practice solutions, guided by the over-arching ethos for the wellbeing of people and buildings. 

“Asbestos SMART proactively promotes good public health and safety practice and helps us to look after everyone who uses our buildings. Today everyone has access to a mobile phone, so by using the latest simple smart technology, we can protect contractors, visitors and occupiers alike.”

Picture: A graphic showing a sequence of how to use the QR code scanner

Stuart Towers, Head of Research & Sales, UKNAR added: “We are delighted to have Knight Frank on board with us. There is great synergy in our joint commitment to best practice in public health. Knight Frank clearly sets the bar for maintaining the highest standards across its portfolio. 

“We are concerned about the number of contractors who do not have ready access to asbestos registers and start work without checking one. It is great to see Knight Frank taking proactive measures to clearly signpost the Asbestos SMART register in their properties.”

Mesothelioma UK Will Receive Five per cent of all Asbestos SMART License Fees

Founded in 2019, UKNAR is a new social enterprise established by compliance specialist, Metro Safety, to educate, inform and help management and duty holders manage asbestos simply and safely. Its mission is to protect people from unnecessary and potentially deadly exposure to asbestos fibres. 

Hundreds of thousands of UK workplaces, public buildings, schools, hospitals and homes still contain asbestos and despite improved legislation, there are still many thousands of accidental exposures to asbestos every year.

The new partnership with Knight Frank represents a significant milestone for UKNAR as a newly formed Community Interest Company (CIC) and its commitment to pursuing a social purpose over making profits for shareholders.  As a direct beneficiary, leading specialist cancer charity, Mesothelioma UK will receive five per cent of all Asbestos SMART license fees.

Picture: A photograph of a smartphone, showing a QR code

Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 29 July 2020

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