Asbestos is a known carcinogen that is found in many building materials used in construction projects. That’s why it is vital to take the necessary steps to ensure that properties are free of asbestos. Asbestos surveys are an essential tool for achieving this objective, and this article will discuss the procedure and benefits of asbestos survey.

What is an Asbestos Survey?

An asbestos survey is the process of inspecting a property to determine whether any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are present and their condition. The survey is carried out by a qualified professional known as an asbestos surveyor. Three types of asbestos surveys exist: management, refurbishment, and demolition surveys.

Asbestos Management Survey

Management surveys are typically carried out in occupied commercial or public properties to determine the risks posed by ACMs. The survey’s purpose is to identify the presence, manage, or monitor ACMs’ condition to avoid disturbing the asbestos during routine maintenance.

Asbestos Refurbishment Survey

A refurbishment survey is essential whenever work that will disturb the fabric of a building is planned. During the survey, an asbestos surveyor takes samples of the suspected ACMs to analyze in the lab. The results of the analysis indicate whether the materials need to be removed, encapsulated, or enclosed to avoid disturbing them.

Asbestos Demolition Survey

Demolition surveys are the most intrusive type of survey and are undertaken before major renovation or demolition work. The purpose of the survey is to identify any ACMs present and provide recommendations on how to manage and dispose of the materials in a safe and compliant manner.

Benefits of an Asbestos Survey

The primary benefit of an asbestos survey is the reduction of the risk of exposure to asbestos, a known carcinogen. Another advantage of an asbestos survey is the peace of mind it provides. By having the survey carried out, building owners can be confident that they are taking all reasonable steps to ensure that occupants are safe.

An asbestos survey can also identify materials that may be at risk of damage from future building works or identify materials that are in poor condition and may need to be removed or repaired.

Asbestos surveys can also help property owners to limit their liability in the case of an accident caused by asbestos. By having an asbestos survey carried out and ACMs managed correctly, building owners can demonstrate that they have taken all reasonable steps to prevent asbestos exposure to any occupiers, workers, and subcontractors in the building.

Conclusion:

Asbestos surveys are a vital tool for ensuring the safety of building occupants, workers, and contractors. By identifying asbestos-containing materials and managing them safely, property owners can avoid the risk of exposure to a known carcinogen. The benefits of an asbestos survey extend beyond safety, with the identification of ACMs providing property owners with cost-saving recommendations on how to manage and dispose of the materials safely.

If you are a property owner, building manager, or contractor, it is vital to have an asbestos survey carried out. Contact a qualified and experienced asbestos surveyor to book your survey today and take the necessary steps to ensure your building is asbestos-free.