Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council has been fined after sending an employee to deal with a water leak in a housing complex without warning him asbestos was present.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) prosecuted the council after it failed to warn the trained plumber that asbestos was present at a sheltered accommodation complex, despite possessing a survey detailing where it was.

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Nuneaton Magistrates Court heard that on 17 August 2009 the employee was sent to Craddock Court in the town after a leak was reported.

Unaware he was dealing with asbestos, and not wearing any personal protective clothing, the worker gained access to the leaking pipe, while sawing the material.

Nuneaton and Bedworth BC pleaded guilty to a breach of Regulations. The council was fined £5,000 and ordered to pay costs of £2,140.

(BMcC)