Does My Refurbished Commercial Building Require An Asbestos Survey In Hampshire?

Asbestos is a dangerous substance that was widely used in the construction of buildings until the 1990s. It is now banned in the UK, but many buildings still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Refurbishing a commercial building is a complex process, and it is important to ensure that any ACMs are identified and managed safely. In this article, we will explore whether a refurbished commercial building requires an asbestos survey in Hampshire.

Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry until the 1990s. It was used for its heat-resistant and fire-resistant properties, as well as its strength and durability. However, it has since been found to be highly toxic and is responsible for many health problems, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Asbestos fibres can become airborne when disturbed, and if inhaled, can cause serious respiratory problems.

Asbestos-containing Materials (ACMs)

ACMs are materials that contain asbestos fibres. They were widely used in the construction industry until the 1990s, and many buildings still contain them today. ACMs can be found in a range of materials, including:

• Insulation
• Floor tiles
• Textured coatings
• Cement products
• Ceiling tiles

Asbestos Surveys

An asbestos survey is a comprehensive assessment of a building's ACMs. It involves an inspection of the building's structure, as well as any materials that may contain asbestos. The survey will identify any ACMs that are present, their type, and their condition. It will also assess the risks associated with the ACMs and recommend the most appropriate course of action for managing them.

There are two types of asbestos survey: a management survey and a refurbishment/demolition survey.

Management Survey

A management survey is a straightforward survey that is intended to locate, as far as is reasonably practicable, the presence and extent of any ACMs in a building. This survey is required under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 if a building was built before 2000 and is likely to contain ACMs.

Refurbishment/Demolition Survey

A refurbishment/demolition survey is required if a building is to be refurbished or demolished. This survey is more intrusive than a management survey, and it may involve destructive inspection to gain access to areas that are not readily accessible. The survey will identify any ACMs that may be disturbed during the refurbishment or demolition and recommend the most appropriate course of action for their safe removal.

Asbestos Management

Managing asbestos in a commercial building is essential for ensuring the health and safety of occupants and visitors. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides guidance on managing asbestos, which includes:

• Identifying the location and condition of ACMs in a building
• Assessing the risks associated with the ACMs
• Developing and implementing an asbestos management plan
• Monitoring and reviewing the asbestos management plan regularly
• Informing anyone who is likely to disturb the ACMs, such as contractors or maintenance workers
• Ensuring that any ACMs that are removed are disposed of safely by a licensed asbestos removal contractor

Asbestos Survey Company in Hampshire

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we are a professional asbestos survey company in Hampshire. We have years of experience in identifying and managing asbestos in commercial buildings, and we can provide you with a comprehensive asbestos survey that meets your specific requirements.

Our asbestos surveyors are fully trained and qualified, and they use the latest equipment and techniques to identify any ACMs in your building. We will provide you with a detailed report that outlines any ACMs that are present, their type, and their condition. We will also recommend the most appropriate course of action for managing the ACMs, whether that be removal or management in place.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we provide a range of asbestos services in Hampshire and the South East of England. Our services include:

• Asbestos surveys
• Asbestos management plans
• Asbestos removal
• Asbestos disposal

Our aim is to provide our clients with a straightforward and cost-effective solution to managing asbestos in their commercial premises. We understand that asbestos management can be a complex and daunting task, so we strive to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you are refurbishing a commercial building in Hampshire, you should consider whether an asbestos survey is required. If the building was built before 2000, it is likely to contain ACMs, and a management survey should be carried out. If the building is to be refurbished or demolished, a refurbishment/demolition survey is required.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we are a professional asbestos survey company in Hampshire, and we can provide you with a comprehensive asbestos survey that meets your specific requirements. Our aim is to provide you with a straightforward and cost-effective solution to managing asbestos in your commercial premises. Contact us today on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected] for more information.