Do I Need An Asbestos Survey in Hampshire?

Asbestos has been widely used in building materials for many years. It is known for its durability and fire-resistant properties, which made it a popular choice in construction. However, asbestos has also been linked to a number of health problems and can cause serious illness, including lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis. As a result, regulations were introduced on the use and removal of asbestos in buildings. One of these regulations is the requirement for an asbestos survey to be carried out before any refurbishment or demolition work is undertaken.

In this article, we will outline what an asbestos survey is, why it is required, and the types of surveys available for homeowners and businesses in Hampshire.

What is an Asbestos Survey?

An asbestos survey is a comprehensive inspection of a building, which is designed to identify any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that may be present on the premises. These surveys are typically carried out by experienced and licensed asbestos surveyors who will inspect all areas of a building, including ceilings, walls, floors, and pipes.

The surveyors will take samples of any suspected ACMs, which will then be analysed in a laboratory to confirm whether or not they contain asbestos. If a material does contain asbestos, the surveyor will also note down its condition, location, and accessibility.

Why is an Asbestos Survey Required?

An asbestos survey is required in order to comply with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. These regulations require that any person responsible for maintenance or repair of non-domestic premises must have an asbestos management plan in place. The management plan should include the results of an asbestos survey, which will identify any ACMs that may be present in the premises.

In addition to this requirement, the regulations also require a survey to be carried out prior to demolition or refurbishment work being carried out. This is to ensure that any ACMs that may be disturbed during the work are identified, and appropriate measures can be put in place to prevent exposure to asbestos fibres.

Types of Asbestos Surveys

There are two types of asbestos surveys available: Management Surveys and Refurbishment/Demolition Surveys.

Management Surveys

A Management Survey is the most common type of asbestos survey and is required for any non-domestic premises. This survey is designed to locate, as far as reasonably practicable, the presence and extent of any asbestos-containing materials within a building.

The survey will identify the type, condition, and location of any ACMs, and will provide a detailed report that includes a risk assessment, management plan, and any recommendations for further action.

Refurbishment/Demolition Surveys

Refurbishment/Demolition Surveys are required when a building is to undergo refurbishment or demolition work. This type of survey is used to locate, as far as reasonably practicable, all ACMs within areas of the building where the work is to be carried out.

The survey will identify the type, condition, and location of any ACMs, which will then be removed or safely managed prior to work commencing. This type of survey is more intrusive than a Management Survey, and may involve destructive inspection methods to access areas of the building that are not easily accessible.

Do I Need an Asbestos Survey?

If you are a homeowner or business owner in Hampshire, and you are planning any refurbishment or demolition work, then you will need an asbestos survey. This is a legal requirement under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

Even if you are not planning any refurbishment or demolition work, it is still recommended that you have a Management Survey carried out, as this will identify any ACMs that may be present on your premises. This will enable you to put in place appropriate measures to manage and monitor any ACMs, and ensure that your premises remain safe for those who use them.

Reasons Why an Asbestos Survey is Needed

There are several reasons why an asbestos survey is needed:

Health and Safety

The primary reason for an asbestos survey is to ensure the health and safety of those who use your premises. Asbestos fibres can cause a number of serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. These conditions can take many years to develop, but can be fatal once they do.

An asbestos survey will identify any ACMs that may be present on your premises, and enable you to take action to protect your employees, customers, or other users of your premises from exposure to asbestos fibres.

Legal Requirements

Asbestos is a highly regulated substance, and there are a number of legal requirements relating to its use, removal and disposal. An asbestos survey is a legal requirement prior to any refurbishment or demolition work being carried out.

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines, legal action, and damage to your reputation.

Peace of Mind

Knowing that your premises are free from asbestos can provide peace of mind, and enable you to reassure your employees, tenants, or customers that you are taking their health and safety seriously.

Choosing a Surveyor

When choosing a surveyor to carry out your asbestos survey, it is important to choose an experienced and qualified professional who is licensed and insured to carry out the work.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we have a team of experienced and licensed surveyors who can carry out Management and Refurbishment/Demolition Surveys for homeowners and business owners in Hampshire, South East England.

Our team of surveyors have extensive knowledge of asbestos legislation, and can provide you with a detailed report that includes a risk assessment, management plan, and any recommendations for further action.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you are a homeowner or business owner in Hampshire, it is important to have an asbestos survey carried out to ensure the health and safety of those who use your premises, comply with legal requirements, and provide peace of mind.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire offers affordable and comprehensive asbestos surveys to homeowners and business owners in Hampshire and South East England. To book your survey, please call us on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected].