Asbestos is a highly hazardous material that was widely used in construction until its ban in the 1980s. It poses a serious health risk to employees and those that may come into contact with it. Asbestos surveys were put in place to identify all areas that may contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in buildings. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into what asbestos survey are, the different types, why they’re important, and who can carry them out.
What are Asbestos Surveys?
An asbestos survey is a comprehensive inspection of a building from top to bottom, in order to identify ACMs. Its aim is to ensure that the building is safe for those who may work or live in it. These surveys include a visual inspection, sampling, and testing of materials found within the building. The survey itself should only be conducted by an experienced, accredited asbestos surveyor.
Types of Asbestos Surveys
There are two main types of asbestos surveys – Management Surveys and Refurbishment/Demolition Surveys. Management surveys are frequently carried out on buildings that are occupied, whilst Refurbishment/Demolition surveys are carried out on empty or partially vacant buildings. Management surveys are meant to identify the presence of ACMs in a building, whilst Refurbishment/Demolition surveys go a step further and identify how the ACMs should be removed.
The Importance of Asbestos Surveys
Asbestos is a highly hazardous material, which is why it was banned throughout most of the world in the 1980s. Even though it has been banned, a lot of buildings still contain asbestos because of how widely it was used prior to prohibition. An asbestos survey is important because it helps building owners and managers understand the risks of asbestos in their building. This knowledge can help them make informed decisions regarding the people who enter and work inside the building, thereby ensuring they are safe from potential health risks.
Who Can Carry Out an Asbestos Survey?
Asbestos surveys should only be carried out by trained professionals that are accredited by one of two organizations – United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) or The Accreditation Scheme for Laboratory Analysts (ASB). These certified organizations help ensure that the survey is carried out correctly, and that the surveyors have the right level of knowledge and skills to manage all aspects of the activity.
Conclusion:
An asbestos survey is an essential tool in identifying potentially hazardous materials that could be present in a building. It helps ensure that the building is safe for the people who live, work, or access it, by identifying areas that may contain ACMs. Asbestos surveys should only be carried out by a professional accredited by UKAS or ASB. It’s important that building owners understand the risks of asbestos, and take every necessary step to protect themselves, their staff, and the people who enter the building against potential health risks. Contact a qualified asbestos surveyor today and ensure your building is safe from potential health hazards.
