Telephone

0151 426 2110

Appointed to the LHC Framework – Asbestos Removal in North West

31 March 2025

Countrywide have been appointed to the LHC Framework for asbestos removal in the North West. The framework is available for local authorities, NHS and social housing providers to procure services for asset safety and compliance.

https://www.northernprocurement.org.uk/frameworks/property-protection-and-maintenance/asset-safety-and-compliance-asc1/

Our highly experienced team work collaboratively to assist in planning of and subsequent removal of asbestos for licenced and non-licensed materials. Countrywide undertake asbestos removal in Liverpool, Manchester, Cheshire, Manchester and Lancashire working in a variety of sectors. https://countrywide-environmental.co.uk/asbestos-removal-services/

We provide award winning asbestos removal solutions in markets to include social housing, education, public sector, commercial and construction.

Read More

Supporting a litter pick in Bolton

31 March 2025
Over 15 volunteers form Bolton Borough Litter Pickers and around 7 local community members worked together last weekend to tidy up the Century Lodge and St Gregory’s Close areas within Bolton. This included litter picking in the streets and woodland, tidying up over grown bushes and helping residents carry items to the skips.
The event was aimed at improving the local environment, was a huge success as volunteers and residents collected significant amounts of litter from key areas of the neighbourhood. The collaborative effort not only helped to create a cleaner and greener space for the community but also strengthened local ties and supported ongoing environmental initiatives with Onward Housing.
Approximately 70 bags were filled with litter and the skips funded by Countrywide, along with efforts from Onward which were greatly appreciated by residents.
Karen Liptrot, Lead Volunteer of Bolton Borough Litter Pickers said; “It was a great help to have assistance from Countrywide, and to have the opportunity to meet and talk about the work the volunteers undertake across the borough. Community representatives from Greater Manchester Police and a local Councillor also dropped by to see the improvements in the area”.
“We were thrilled to have had the opportunity to contribute to the community in such a meaningful way.” said Paul Roberts, Contract Manager at Countrywide. “This initiative highlights our commitment to social value and supporting the well-being of the communities in which we work. It’s fantastic to see local people coming together to make a tangible difference.”

Countrywide undertake asbestos removal in Liverpool, Manchester, Cheshire, Manchester and Lancashire working in a variety of sectors. https://countrywide-environmental.co.uk/asbestos-removal-services/. We provide asbestos removal solutions in markets to include social housing, education, public sector, commercial and construction. Countrywide are ARCA and ACAD members promoting best practice throughout the industry. Further information is available from our offices on 0151 426 2110 or admin@countrywide-environmental.co.uk.

Read More

Countrywide awarded new asbestos licence

30 September 2024

The HSE has awarded Countrywide Environmental Services Ltd with a new 3 year asbestos removal licence following the successful renewal process. This new licence is valid until October 2027. CESL – 3 Year Asbestos Licence – 11.10.2024-10.10.2027  The award follows a rigorous review of our management systems, technical knowledge and safety performance.

Asbestos removal in multiple markets.

As a trusted partner maintaining compliance, we work to maintain the highest standards of safety and environmental best practice. Our work covers social housing, public sector, education, health, commercial and industrial markets.

Darren Sinners, Countrywide’s Managing Director said, “I am delighted with the team effort. Going forward, we will continue to plan asbestos removal works diligently to ensure compliance and offer value.”

Working to UKAS accredited standards. We maintain ISO 9001, 14001 and 45001 UKAS accredited standards. Furthermore, SSIP accreditation is also held.

Our highly competent local teams maintain robust systems and processes for asbestos removal in Liverpool, Manchester, Cheshire and North West.

Protecting client reputation and delivering peace of mind will remain at the forefront of our focus. Further information, assistance and advice is available from the office on 0151 426 2110 or by email admin@countrywide-environmental.co.uk.

Read More

Asbestos removal – Gas and Electrical Safety

29 September 2024

It’s safety first in social housing.

Our social housing clients take many steps to ensure that gas and electrical safety checks are undertaken in resident’s homes. These checks reduce the risk of serious accidents such as fires, carbon monoxide, electric shock and leaks etc.

Residents in social housing also have a role to play, enabling compliance checks and inspections to be undertaken. This maintains a safe living environment for all.

Asbestos in homes

In many occasions, asbestos will also be present. This may include hot water pipe insulation, old ventilation pipes, in bath panels, in risers, in panels behind heaters, fire door panels, in floor tiles, in textured coatings and ceiling panels, drain pipes, insulation board, garage roofs and wall panels.

Do treat asbestos with respect. It should be maintained in good condition. Don’t damage it or try to remove it. Your landlord will give advice if there is damaged asbestos material, and otherwise the guidance is to leave it alone.

Isolations for asbestos works

There will be occasions where we have to isolate services for a short period to remove any asbestos as part of compliance works repairs or upgrades. This may be for electrical works, plumbing or refurbishment schemes. A competent person will undertake this work. We will ensure all services are left safe and secure on completion of our work. Do not attempt to work on asbestos containing materials yourself.

Safety with Gas

In respect of gas, we recommend a carbon monoxide monitor is kept in your home. Keep numbers such as The National Gas Emergency Service (0800 111 999) available at all times to report a gas or carbon monoxide leak. Headaches, collapse, nausea and dizziness can be symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. Check your appliance works, and are in good condition. Gas Safe engineers only should work on gas appliances.

Don’t attempt to work on gas services yourself. Gas safe Engineers can be found on the register www.gasSafeRegister.co.uk if you need to check their credentials.

In respect of asbestos removal in Liverpool, Manchester and the North West, our teams are able to offer guidance on 0151 426 2110.

 

Read More

How do you really feel today? Mental well-being in Mental Awareness Week.

14 May 2024

Mental health and well-being are just as important for employees working in small companies as those employed in larger companies, often with more HR resource. We call all suffer from different circumstances throughout our lives.

Emotional Well-being.

Management of stress, coping with challenges, and maintaining a positive outlook despite setbacks are difficult challenges for us all in the construction industry. This is certainly the case in the asbestos industry where compliance is key, and deadlines so important. Open communication and providing resources help to reduce stress and anxiety. Regularly ‘checking in’ with employees and asking questions if they are quiet or not their normal selves are tell-tale signs. If feelings and behaviours affect you, maybe it’s time to talk. The questions to ask: How do you feel?

Physical Health.

Physical health is so important in the construction industry. It is closely linked to mental health. A healthy body will have higher energy levels, lower sickness and an ability to reduce stress. Encouraging regular breaks better diet and activity outside of work will assist in helping physical well-being. Additionally, promoting a healthy work-life balance through flexible working hours can help team members.

Social Well-being.

A supportive social environment will improve job satisfaction, performance and productivity. Social health relates to the way we communicate at work. We are working to ensure that shift patterns and time away from home are minimised where practicable. If you are worried, talk to someone you trust. They may be a friend, colleague, family member, or GP to get perspective on what you are thinking.

Financial Well-being.

Financial wellbeing is often overlooked. It plays a critical role in an employee’s overall mental well-being. Financial worries lead to anxiety, depression, and reduced productivity in the work-place. We aim to support by paying fair wages and benefits such pensions to alleviate financial pressures and help employees feel more secure and focused at work.

Workplace Environment.

The physical and psychological workplace environment change significantly in planned and reactive works. This impacts on mental health. We work to provide a workplace is free from hazards and risks despite the nature of the work. Welfare includes providing adequate lighting, comfortable seating, and quiet areas for focused work or relaxation. Our aims are to provide happier, healthier, and more productive employees.

We are affiliated with Mates in Mind https://www.matesinmind.org/ to provide a positive lead to help people be the best they can. In this way we create safer sites, reduce accidents and help our people to feel good about the contribution to their work and the community. We are working to improve wellbeing and create a better work-life balance. Countrywide undertake asbestos removal in Liverpool, Manchester, North West, Chester and North Wales. Mental health in asbestos removal is a key priority for our industry.

Read More

Countrywide recognised with 9th Rospa Gold Medal

12 April 2024

Safety award recognition in asbestos removal

Countrywide Environmental Services have been awarded an 9th consecutive Gold Award in recognition of its safety practices and achievements in 2023/24.

The internationally renowned RoSPA Health and Safety Awards are the longest-running industry awards scheme in the UK.

The RoSPA Awards scheme, which receives entries from organisations around the world, recognises achievement in health and safety management systems, including practices such as leadership, mental health and workforce involvement.

Darren Sinners, Managing Director, said: “I am delighted that our commitment to behavioural safety has been acknowledged. We work collaboratively to progress best safety practice to ensure compliance and protect reputation. The importance of issues surrounding compliance, maintenance and mitigation of risk have never been so important to clients and others affected by our work.”

Julia Small, RoSPA’s head of qualifications, awards and events, said: “The RoSPA Awards are the most highly-respected in the health and safety arena, with almost 2,000 entrants every year, and allow organisations to prove excellence in the workplace, demonstrating a commitment to the wellbeing of not only employees but all those who interact with it.”

Serving the North West

Countrywide undertake asbestos removal in Liverpool, Manchester, Cheshire, Manchester and Lancashire working in a variety of sectors. https://countrywide-environmental.co.uk/asbestos-removal-services/

We provide asbestos removal solutions in markets to include social housing, education, public sector, commercial and construction. Countrywide are ARCA and ACAD members promoting best practice throughout the industry. https://www.arca.org.uk/member/21836-Countrywide-Environmental-Services-Ltd-Merseyside

Our team are on hand to assist in planning and costing schemes for large and small scale works. We look to provide practical solutions to meet the scope of works whilst maintaining asbestos compliance throughout. Every project is different. All areas of risk are considered to ensure the programme of work is achieved, both on time and within budget.

Quality assurance

Our asbestos removal services are quality assured to ISO9001, ISO14001 and ISO45001 for quality, environmental and safety management respectively. All works are delivered by highly competent personnel. For further information, please contact us by email admin@countrywide-environmental.co.uk or by phone on 0151 426 2110.

Read More

Managing RAAC – finding solutions where asbestos is present

10 October 2023

Introduction

Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) was commonly used from the 1950’s to 90’s as a lightweight construction material in schools, colleges and some public buildings.  

Understanding the challenges RAAC presents

The material was often found in flat roofs, pre-cast panels, floors and walls. The period of usage aligns with the use of asbestos. The material had a lifespan of approximately 30 years. As a result, the potential for structural failure can be reasonably expected as time goes on. Water and moisture ingress will invariably affect the integrity of any steel re-enforcement under the circumstances. The structural integrity may be affected where there has been decay at the ends of any beams / panels. RAAC products may have also been coated with other products over a period of time, such as bitumen.  

Asbestos considerations

Where RAAC is suspected to be present, a survey of the building by a structural engineer will be required to identify the risks of structural failure and building integrity. Aligned with this, any asbestos containing materials will need to be identified to ensure safe working for contractors. Reference to the asbestos register and surveys must be remembered. 

Finding solutions

Countrywide are able to offer support and advice as to how asbestos should be addressed within these buildings enabling any testing or remedial works to be undertaken. This may be in support of Rand D surveying, or for the removal of asbestos to allow other works to be carried out safely.  

Countrywide undertake asbestos removal in Liverpool, Manchester, Cheshire, Manchester and Lancashire. We work in a variety of sectors. https://countrywide-environmental.co.uk/asbestos-removal-services/

The team look to provide practical solutions to meet the scope of works whilst maintaining asbestos compliance throughout. Every project is different for large and small scale works. All areas of risk are considered to ensure the programme of work is achieved, both on time and within budget. Our team are on hand to help in balancing against planning, managing and and costing schemes. This will protect both any existing building users and any contractors working on the building for RAAC remedial works.  

Our services are quality assured to ISO9001, 14001 and 45001 for quality, environmental and safety management respectively. All works are delivered by highly competent personnel. For further information, please contact us by email admin@countrywide-environmental.co.uk or by phone on 0151 426 2110. 

Read More

Slavery and trafficking compliance. 

6 September 2023

Introduction

Countrywide Environmental Services Ltd have taken measures to ensure slavery and human trafficking is not taking place within any part of our own business or our supply chains. We continually work to mitigate against this risk, with team members being briefed on the subject as required. This maintains compliance with the Modern Slavery Act 2015.

Maintaining zero tolerance 

We maintain a zero tolerance towards slavery and the behaviours of suppliers and supply chain are expected to follow suit.

Management systems

ISO certification is  aintained across multiple standards (9001, 14001 and 45001), and are further vetted by external parties to include accreditation with Constructionline and SSIP.

Within our business:

  • Our permanent staff are directly employed and demonstrate UK residency prior to employment.
  • Conditions of employment are provided.
  • Certifications relating to competency are validated
  • Salaries / wages are paid into an employee’s account

Managing works

  • All works are managed by a competent person to an agreed specification, scope and in context with client requirements.
  • Appropriate supervision is provided on all works to manage and mitigate risk.
  • All works are within an agreed geographic location to manage compliance

Within our supply chain: 

  • Request for appropriate policies has commenced within our supply chain.
  • Pre-qualification questionnaires are required to cover HSEQ elements for sub-contractors as part of this due diligence process.
  • We expect our suppliers to share similar values and provide updates on their commitment and ongoing work to manage out these practices.

Our commitment

Our team are committed to ensuring slavery and human trafficking remain outside of our directly delivered services and suppliers / supply chain.

Team members are expected to report any concerns to management who will take relevant action to resolve any matters.

Information will be monitored locally, with any intelligence taken seriously and investigated appropriately by senior management taking all necessary actions to eliminate all non-compliance. This relates to direct and indirect operations.

All trading activity is managed in an ethical manner with integrity in all business relationships, now and in the future.

Countrywide undertake asbestos removal in Liverpool, Manchester, Cheshire and Lancashire working in a variety of sectors. https://countrywide-environmental.co.uk/asbestos-removal-services/

Read More

Countrywide recognise Mental Awareness Week 2023.

19 May 2023

Within the construction industry, a ‘hidden culture’ discourages workers from finding help and support when they need it.

The daily challenges faced in society have changed significantly since covid. This includes how the cost of living affects our daily lives.

The reasons are always personal, may be perceived or real, increasing further stress on mental health and wellbeing. This goes hand in hand with  physical well-being.

The construction industry can create a range of different pressures. This can range from managing budgets, managing tight contracts, long working hours to time away from family.

This year, the main theme is about anxiety. This means dealing with feelings of unease, uncertainty or nervousness. Some anxiety is normal, but when levels rise, the option to talk, find solutions, support or guidance become increasingly important.

Anxiety can stem from difficulties at home or the work-place. We never know what is happening to friends, family and work colleagues. Reaching out to start conversation is always good. It allows those in our circles to feel they can talk.

Small and medium organisations have less resources at their disposal to larger companies. People however, have the same psychological needs. Countrywide have joined Mates in Mind in recognition of the need to keep both our minds and bodies fit and healthy. https://www.matesinmind.org/about-us

‘Established in 2016 by the Health in Construction Leadership Group (HCLG) with the support of the British Safety Council. Mates in Mind charity exists to improve the mental health and wellbeing of workplaces across the UK. We do this by providing the skills, clarity and confidence to employers on how to raise awareness, improve understanding and address the stigma of mental ill-health within the workplace’. (Mates in Mind website 2023).

We at Countrywide will be working with them to help our team members understand more about mental health, how to get help, and, encourage all to break the silence. It’s good to talk.

Countrywide undertake asbestos removal in Liverpool, Manchester, Cheshire, Manchester and Lancashire working in a variety of sectors. https://countrywide-environmental.co.uk/asbestos-removal-services/ We provide asbestos removal solutions in markets to include social housing, education, public sector, commercial and construction.

Read More

A second ACAD Certificate of Excellence for asbestos removal

25 April 2023

Countrywide Environmental Services have been awarded a second consecutive ACAD certificate of excellence for asbestos removal. A 100% grade on an ACAD audit in March at a school in Greater Manchester was received qualifying us for ACAD’s Excellence in Audit’ award.

Darren Sinners, Managing Director commented: “I’m so pleased that our commitment to asbestos best practice on site has been recognised. Planning surrounding compliance and maintenance matters have never been so important to clients. This includes IT systems which facilitate clarity in working, and, easy identification of control measures.

The Supervisor’s knowledge and skills on site in making sure the personnel, plant and site set-up are well managed continues to be so important. We work collaboratively to progress best safety practice to ensure compliance and protect reputation. As a result, we aim for first time, every time solutions to ensure asbestos compliance.”

Countrywide undertake asbestos removal in Liverpool, Manchester, Cheshire, Manchester and Lancashire working in a variety of sectors. https://countrywide-environmental.co.uk/asbestos-removal-services/

We provide asbestos removal solutions in markets to include social housing, education, public sector, commercial and construction. We are both ACAD and ARCA members promoting best practice throughout the industry. https://www.arca.org.uk/member/21836-Countrywide-Environmental-Services-Ltd-Prescot,-Liverpool.

We look to provide practical solutions to meet the scope of works whilst maintaining asbestos compliance throughout. Every project is different. All areas of risk are considered to ensure the programme of work is achieved, both on time and within budget. Our team are on hand to assist in planning and costing schemes for large and small scale works.

Our services are quality assured to ISO9001, 14001 and 45001 for quality, environmental and safety management respectively. All works are delivered by highly competent personnel. For further information, please contact us by email admin@countrywide-environmental.co.uk or by phone on 0151 426 2110.

Certificate of Excellence 23.03.23

Read More

Countrywide Office18 Sinclair Way
Prescot Business Park
Prescot, Liverpool, Merseyside
L34 1QL

Tel: 0151 426 2110
Fax: 0151 426 2190