How Is A Refurbishment Asbestos Survey Carried Out In Hampshire?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral used for its fire-resistant properties, strength and durability. It was commonly used as a building material in the past until its hazards were recognized. When asbestos is disturbed, tiny fibers are released into the air and can cause chronic lung diseases that lead to cancer. Therefore, a refurbishment asbestos survey is essential to establish whether asbestos is present in a building and whether demolition or refurbishment is safe. In this post, well talk about how a refurbishment asbestos survey is conducted in Hampshire.

Introduction to Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire is a renowned asbestos survey company in Hampshire, South East England. We offer affordable solutions to provide you with a safe living or working space, free from asbestos. Our team of experienced professionals provides asbestos management surveys, asbestos building surveys, refurbishment and demolition asbestos surveys, and asbestos removal services. You can reach us by calling our phone number, 01962 458066, or sending an email to [email protected].

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that have strong fibers, making it resistant to heat, chemicals, and wear and tear. In the past, asbestos was used as a building material in flooring, insulation, roofing, and wall coverings. When disturbed, asbestos fibers can be released into the air and inhaled, causing a range of illnesses, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.

Why is an Asbestos Survey Necessary?

An asbestos survey is necessary before any demolition, refurbishment, or maintenance work is done on a building. The survey helps identify the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in the building, their location, and the potential risk of exposure. This information helps construction managers and workers to take necessary precautions, such as wearing protective gear, and prevent any exposure to asbestos fibers.

Types of Asbestos Surveys

There are two types of asbestos surveys- management surveys and refurbishment/demolition surveys. A management survey is a routine asbestos survey that aims to identify where asbestos is located in a building to prevent further exposure from the day-to-day use of the building. A refurbishment/demolition survey aims to locate and assess asbestos-containing materials that may be disturbed during refurbishment or demolition work.

How is a Refurbishment Asbestos Survey Carried Out?

A refurbishment/demolition survey is a detailed intrusive inspection and assessment of all areas within the building where refurbishment or demolition work is planned. It involves accessing confined spaces, above ceilings, and beneath floors, and requires equipment to drill and break through walls if required. The survey involves the following steps:

Step One: Planning and Preparation

Before a survey can begin, the surveyor needs to plan and prepare adequately. This involves familiarizing themselves with the building layout and creating a plan that identifies the areas to be surveyed. The surveyor also needs to find out the purpose of the survey and the type of asbestos-containing materials present in the building.

Step Two: Initial Inspection

The initial inspection involves a visual examination of the building, documenting its condition, identifying any areas that may contain asbestos, and taking samples for analysis. Surveyors look for damaged or deteriorated materials that may release asbestos fibers during refurbishment or demolition work. They also inspect the loft spaces, basements, and other confined spaces to ensure nothing is missed.

Step Three: Analysis of Samples

The surveyor takes samples of any suspected asbestos-containing materials and sends them to a laboratory for analysis. The samples are analyzed using polarized light microscopy, which identifies the precise type of asbestos present.

Step Four: Recording the Findings

After the laboratory analysis, the surveyor records the findings in a report that details the location, type of asbestos present, and risk assessment. The report also includes photographs and analysis of each sample taken.

Step Five: Management Plan

If asbestos-containing materials are present, the surveyor presents a management plan that outlines steps to be taken to manage the asbestos safely. The plan may include asbestos removal, encapsulation or sealing, and regular re-inspections to ensure the asbestos is not disturbed.

Why You Need an Asbestos Survey

If you plan any refurbishment or demolition work, you must have a refurbishment asbestos survey carried out. This survey is critical to establishing whether asbestos is present in the building and whether demolition or refurbishment is safe. It ensures that all asbestos-containing materials are identified, and the necessary precautions are taken to prevent any exposure to asbestos fibers. An asbestos survey is a legal requirement before any refurbishment or demolition work is carried out in the UK.

Conclusion

Asbestos surveys are crucial for any refurbishment or demolition work in buildings. Refurbishment/demolition surveys aim to locate and assess asbestos-containing materials that may be disturbed during refurbishment or demolition work. Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire is a leading asbestos survey company in Hampshire, South East England, providing affordable solutions to keep you safe. Our experienced professionals carry out thorough asbestos surveys and provide management plans to help keep you safe. Contact us on 01962 458066 or via email at [email protected] for reliable and affordable asbestos removal and survey services.