With the dangers of asbestos now widely known, it’s vital to manage the risks effectively by monitoring and managing asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). A key part of this is scheduling appropriate asbestos surveys, depending on the normal occupancy of the building, planned work and the type of site where potential ACMs are located.
But what asbestos survey do you need? Here are some of the options to consider.
Asbestos management surveys
By law (Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012), a duty holder of a non-domestic building must schedule asbestos management surveys at their site to maintain a safe working environment. The primary objective of this survey is to locate and assess the condition of ACMs within the premises, and an experienced asbestos surveyor will be able to make these judgements.
Formally known as Type 2 checks, asbestos management surveys identify ACMs that could be disturbed during normal occupancy or maintenance, plus the condition and risk associated with each one. A detailed asbestos management plan should be developed to monitor these materials, including recommendations for ongoing safety measures or removal.
Asbestos refurbishment and demolition surveys
Before any construction work takes place in a building, an asbestos refurbishment and demolition survey is mandatory. This type of assessment is more intrusive than asbestos management surveys, involving extensive sampling and testing of materials that could be disturbed during the planned work.
The condition and type of ACMs are thoroughly assessed, as this information is crucial for the safe execution of the project. The report produced will have information for planning the safe removal of ACMs before refurbishment or demolition work begins. Compliance with this survey is vital to ensure the safety of workers and the public during construction.
Asbestos re-inspections
Asbestos-containing materials can deteriorate over time, potentially becoming more hazardous. Therefore, asbestos re-inspections should be scheduled as part of your management plan, conducting periodic assessments of asbestos previously identified. Regular re-inspections ensure the management of ACMs remains effective and any deterioration or damage is promptly addressed.
Asbestos re-inspection surveys include visual assessments of the condition of ACMs to determine any changes, sampling if there are concerns and the updating of records.
Asbestos pre-purchase surveys
Asbestos pre-purchase surveys are suitable for homebuyers and property investors, providing crucial information about the presence of asbestos before finalising the sale. This involves a comprehensive assessment of the property by a trained surveyor to identify any ACMs.
Pre-purchase surveys assess the condition of ACMs and their potential risks, allowing buyers to make informed decisions based on the findings, including potential asbestos removal costs.
Book a professional asbestos survey now
Do you need an asbestos survey? Contact Goodbye Asbestos. We’re expert asbestos surveyors for Surrey, London and surrounding counties, offering our services in Effingham, Egham and beyond.
To book a new asbestos survey, call now on 0800 024 6203 or 07500 866733. Alternatively, please send your enquiry to info@goodbyeasbestos.co.uk.