One in three asbestos inspection firms in the Netherlands are failing to ensure safety

The Dutch Labor Inspectorate warns that over a third of the 18 certified companies responsible for post-asbestos removal inspections fail to do their jobs correctly, leading to buildings being declared safe despite lingering asbestos residues.

The Labor Inspectorate notes that some companies might issue false clearance certificates because it is financially beneficial. “Cutting corners on inspections allows final inspection agencies to handle more assignments.”

Moreover, remediation firms select the agency that conducts the final inspection, which poses a conflict-of-interest risk. “A lenient final inspection can bring in loyal clients faster while reducing costs for the remediation company.”

The Labor Inspectorate has suggested several measures, such as having an independent body assign the final inspection agency and conducting random re-inspections to improve compliance.

Exposure to asbestos can cause serious health problems, such as lung cancer and mesothelioma, also known as asbestos cancer. The Dutch Labor Inspectorate reports that in recent years, 450 to 520 people have died annually from mesothelioma in the Netherlands.

All EU member states are required to implement the updated EU Asbestos Directive by December 21, 2025. The directive obliges companies to secure a permit from a competent authority for any asbestos demolition or removal and ensures that employees receive training from certified, qualified instructors.

Around 80,000 asbestos inspections are conducted in the Netherlands annually.