An asbestos survey is a methodical examination of a building to identify all asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) present. An ACM is any material that contains more than 0.1% asbestos by weight. These materials can include insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, pipes, and many others. An asbestos survey is necessary to determine the location, extent, and condition of any ACMs in your building. This information is crucial for managing the asbestos safely and minimizing the risk of exposure to the hazardous fibers.

There are two types of asbestos surveys:

• Management survey: This is a basic survey that is intended to locate, as far as reasonably practicable, the presence of any ACMs in a building. The survey is usually carried out when the building is still in use and is done to ensure that anyone who may accidentally disturb the ACMs knows where they are and how to handle them properly.

• Refurbishment/demolition survey: This is a more extensive survey that is carried out prior to any major refurbishment or demolition work. The survey is intended to locate and identify all possible ACMs in a building so that they can be safely removed before the work starts.