Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once widely used in building materials due to its properties of fire-resistance and durability. However, it was later discovered that asbestos fibers can pose a serious health risk when inhaled, leading to the development of mesothelioma and other lung diseases. To prevent exposure to this hazardous material, asbestos surveys are conducted to identify the presence and condition of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in buildings. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at what asbestos survey entail and their benefits.

Types of Asbestos Surveys

There are two main types of asbestos surveys – Management and Demolition/Refurbishment surveys. Management surveys are carried out to assess the presence of ACMs in a building, their condition, and any potential risks they pose to health. This type of survey is non-intrusive and usually involves a visual inspection of accessible areas of a building. Demolition/Refurbishment surveys, on the other hand, are invasive and are carried out prior to any work being done on a building. They involve a thorough inspection of all accessible areas of a building to identify any ACMs that may be disturbed during the course of work.

Benefits of Asbestos Surveys

There are several benefits of conducting asbestos surveys, some of which are listed below:

• Health and Safety – Asbestos surveys help identify the presence of ACMs in buildings, allowing for their safe management and removal and preventing exposure to hazardous fibers.
• Compliance – Asbestos surveys are required by law, and failure to comply can result in hefty fines and legal action.
• Cost-saving – Identifying ACMs early on and managing them appropriately can prevent unnecessary costs associated with removal or abatement in the future.
• Peace of mind – Knowing that your building is asbestos-free can provide peace of mind to building occupants, visitors, and owners.

Asbestos Survey Procedure

The procedure for conducting an asbestos survey involves a few key steps. These include:

• Planning – This involves identifying the scope and objectives of the survey and ensuring that any necessary paperwork and equipment are in place.
• Inspection – This involves visually inspecting accessible areas of a building to identify any ACMs. If necessary, samples may be collected for laboratory testing to confirm the presence of asbestos fibers.
• Analysis – Results from laboratory analysis are used to confirm the presence of asbestos and determine the type and condition of ACMs.
• Reporting – The results of the survey are compiled into a comprehensive report which outlines the location, type, condition, and risk level of any identified ACMs.

Choosing the Right Asbestos Survey Provider

Choosing a reputable asbestos survey provider is crucial to ensure accurate results and compliance with regulations. When selecting an asbestos survey provider, consider the following factors:

• Accreditation – Make sure the provider is accredited by a reputable organization such as UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service).
• Experience – Look for a provider with experience in conducting asbestos surveys in buildings similar to yours.
• Reputation – Check customer reviews and ratings to determine the provider’s reputation for quality and service.
• Cost – While cost is important, it should not be the only deciding factor. Beware of providers offering significantly lower prices than others, as this may indicate a lack of quality.

Conclusion:

Asbestos surveys are an essential aspect of building management, ensuring the safety of occupants and compliance with regulations. When conducted correctly, they can help identify and manage ACMs in buildings, potentially saving costs associated with removal in the future. Choosing a reputable asbestos survey provider is crucial to ensure accurate results and compliance with regulations. If you think your building may contain asbestos, don’t delay in booking an asbestos survey with a trusted provider.