The dangers of asbestos in construction are now well known with its full ban legislated before 2000. However, for organisations operating in older buildings, asbestos testing and management is still the best way to protect staff, customers, visitors and anyone else on the premises.
Businesses need to understand the importance of commercial asbestos surveys in maintaining a safe and compliant property. Here are some key points to get you started.
What is commercial asbestos testing used for?
Commercial asbestos testing is used to identify asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in a building. This could be ACMs found within the main property or outbuildings on your site. Common commercial asbestos includes textured coatings, partition walls, floor tiles, ceiling tiles, roofing and insulation. Asbestos tests detect and assess the condition of ACMs so the potential risks can be managed or prevented. Businesses can then take appropriate steps to stop exposure, such as sealing or removing the material.
Why are asbestos surveys important for commercial premises?
If asbestos is damaged or disturbed, the minute fibres can be inhaled, causing serious respiratory illnesses like lung cancer and mesothelioma. Therefore, asbestos surveys are essential for commercial properties, safeguarding the health and safety of anyone who occupies or visits the property. Surveys identify the presence of asbestos and its current condition, allowing for informed decisions about management or removal. Asbestos surveys are also a legal requirement for many commercial properties, and failure to manage the risks can bring significant legal and financial consequences.
Is a landlord or business responsible for asbestos management?
The burden of responsibility when it comes to asbestos management in commercial premises can fall to either the landlord or building occupiers, depending on the terms of the lease. Usually, a named duty holder or ‘responsible person or persons’ is the individual or team liable. This is sometimes the landlord, the tenant, or both, depending on the lease agreement. Asbestos management plans need to be reviewed regularly, including the location of ACMs, their condition and how risks will be managed, whether via frequent monitoring, sealing or removal.
Who carries out commercial asbestos surveys?
Commercial asbestos surveys should only be completed by qualified professionals. These trained experts understand how to safely identify ACMs and accurately determine their condition. Experienced asbestos surveyors have the skills, equipment and techniques to conduct in-depth investigations. This includes standard management surveys looking at day-to-day operations, or more intrusive refurbishment and demolition surveys before major building work.
What should businesses do with their asbestos test results?
Once asbestos testing is finished, you should receive a report of findings. Commercial organisations should use the results to update their asbestos management plan. If there are any changes or additional recommendations, businesses may need to plan a safe asbestos removal and provide contractors with details of the report. Always keep a record of any tests carried out, as these documents may be used for legal compliance and future property transactions.
Contact our commercial asbestos contractors
Do you need asbestos testing in London, Surrey or the Home Counties? Goodbye Asbestos offers asbestos surveys in Knaphill, Leatherhead and beyond.
For a free quote, contact us.
