In the past, asbestos was a standard insulation material used in buildings, but it has now been banned in many countries due to its health hazards. Although asbestos is less common now, it has not disappeared entirely, as it is still present in many older buildings. This is why asbestos surveys have become essential for identifying the presence of asbestos in buildings and ensuring its safe removal. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of asbestos survey, their importance, and how they are conducted.

What is an Asbestos Survey?

An asbestos survey is a detailed inspection of a building carried out by qualified experts to identify the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). The survey’s primary objective is to locate and evaluate the risk of any ACMs’ potential disturbance that could release asbestos fibers into the air. Asbestos surveys are essential to protect the building’s occupants’ health as asbestos fibers can cause debilitating respiratory illnesses such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer.

Types of Asbestos surveys

There are two types of asbestos surveys: Management surveys and Refurbishment or Demolition surveys. A management survey aims to locate asbestos-containing materials that could be accidentally disturbed in the future and requires a plan for managing those materials. Refurbishment or Demolition surveys are carried out before refurbishing or demolishing a building. The survey identifies the presence of asbestos in the building and ensures that it’s removed safely before any demolition or refurbishment work begins.

How is an Asbestos Survey Conducted?

Asbestos surveys are conducted by a qualified and experienced asbestos surveyor. The process involves the surveyor inspecting the building and collecting samples of any suspected ACMs. These samples are then analyzed by a UKAS accredited laboratory to determine the presence and type of asbestos. Depending on the findings of the survey, the surveyor will provide recommendations for appropriate courses of action. These may include removing the asbestos-containing materials, repairing them, or encapsulating them.

The Importance of Asbestos Surveys

Asbestos surveys are essential for protecting human health. Asbestos is a hazardous material and can cause severe health problems if inhaled. Asbestos surveys help to ensure that everyone working or living in a building is protected from the risks of exposure to asbestos. It is also a legal requirement for building owners, employers, and people in control of buildings to carry out regular asbestos surveys and manage any ACMs appropriately.

Selecting an Asbestos Surveyor

When selecting an asbestos surveyor, it’s crucial to ensure they are qualified and licensed to carry out asbestos surveys. Look for an experienced surveyor and check that they hold relevant accreditations, such as BOHS P402 or P405. An accredited surveyor will ensure that the survey is of a high standard, and the results will be reliable. It’s also important to check that the surveyor has liability insurance as asbestos surveys are not without risk.

Conclusion:

Asbestos surveys are essential for protecting human health and ensuring that people are not exposed to the risks of asbestos exposure. This guide has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of asbestos surveys, including their importance, how they are conducted, and the different types of surveys available. It’s critical to remember that asbestos surveys should be carried out by a qualified and experienced surveyor and that building owners or employers must manage any asbestos-containing materials appropriately. Regular asbestos surveys are essential for maintaining the safety of buildings and protecting the health of everyone who enters them.