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Steve-o
Rank 1
March 31, 2024
Solved

Asbestos backboard removal- Who's responsible?

  • March 31, 2024
  • 74 replies
  • 6018 views

Hi everyone.

 

Has anyone been through the process of having their electricity meter successfully removed from an asbestos backboard, in order for both to be replaced? 

 

A little context. We have an older style meter which has developed a fault (the readout has gone blank). We’ve had a smart meter installation aborted twice in the last few years with quite vague explanations as to why and no follow up.

 

The fault in the meter has now thrown up some answers as to why the installs were aborted, but having reported the fault, we’ve been sent back and forth between OVO and Scottish and Southern with no one wanting to help or offer advice. 

 

What is the process in these circumstances? I know the backboard is our responsibility but I can’t imagine anyone wanting to deal with the meter without the consent of the DNO?

 

Any help would be muchly appreciated.

Steve-o.

Best answer by Chris_OVO

Updated on 15/08/25 by Emmanuelle_OVO:
 

Who’s responsible for replacing a meter backboard?


As you can see on our great guide, the meter backboard is maintained by your Distribution Network Operator (DNO).

 

 

Not sure who the DNO is …

 

I assumed SSEN, going by “we’ve been sent back and forth between OVO and Scottish and Southern ...” in the OP. 

I had a quick look at your UKPN site and see that they’re pretty clued up as regards this asbestos business. I searched the equivalent SSEN site, but not a whisper about asbestos there. Some DNOs are more equal than others.

 

I would agree with you on this one @Firedog. When I was reading into this more to get a better understanding I found some DNO better than others. The UKPN site is very clean and clear when setting expectations and explaining next steps but the SSEN site was difficult to get more information from. 

I appreciate you keeping the conversation going and hopefully we will have an update from @Steve-o soon! 

 

 

74 replies

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shirleyambarrett
Newcomer
February 20, 2025

I was told, as the sample was being taken, by the specialist, “ I can see its not asbestolux, but as we’ve got to this point I will take the sample and test it because you are stuck with the people with their heads up their backsides who want a certificate before they will stop covering their heads in fright” Note that OvO are now taking this on board properly. Thanks for your supercilious comments nevertheless.

Firedog
Super User
FiredogSuper User
Super User
February 20, 2025

Sorry if you found my comments supercilious. As regards the SSEN technicians remark about ‘people … covering their heads in fright,’ see what the official word is about the dangers of asbestos: Why is asbestos dangerous? - HSE 

I think I’d like a second opinion before drilling into a suspect backboard.

Noel | I have no official status; I'm just a volunteer who comes here to help other customers. My gear: Aclara SGM 1416-B Electricity-only E7 meter; Chameleon IHD3-PPMID-AAA | It may look as if I know what I’m talking about, but don’t let that fool you. |
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    shirleyambarrett
    Newcomer
    February 21, 2025

    The point is its not suspect when you know what you are looking at - comes down to training.

    juliamc
    Rank 20
    juliamc
    Rank 20
    February 21, 2025

    But you do have to look at the fibres under a microscope not just by eye.

    (Photo taken from a Personal Injury Lawyer’s awareness newsletter). 

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