How Is An Asbestos Survey Done In Hampshire?

Asbestos is a hazardous material that was widely used in construction in Hampshire and throughout the UK in the 20th century. Exposure to asbestos fibers can cause serious and fatal illnesses, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. As a result, there are strict regulations governing the handling, removal, and disposal of asbestos-containing materials in the UK.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we are a trusted asbestos survey company in Hampshire that provides comprehensive asbestos surveys and management services for buildings and properties throughout Hampshire and South East England. In this article, we will discuss how an asbestos survey is done in Hampshire, including the types of surveys available, the process of conducting a survey, and what happens after the survey is completed.

Types of Asbestos Surveys

Before we discuss the process of conducting an asbestos survey, it is helpful to understand the types of surveys that are available. There are two main types of asbestos surveys: asbestos management surveys and asbestos refurbishment or demolition surveys.

Asbestos Management Survey

An asbestos management survey is a standard survey that is carried out to identify the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in a building or property. This type of survey is mandatory for all non-domestic properties built before 2000, and it is recommended for domestic properties as well.

The purpose of an asbestos management survey is to locate all ACMs within a building or property and assess their condition. The survey will include a detailed report that identifies the type, location, and condition of any ACMs found, as well as recommendations for their management or removal as necessary.

Asbestos Refurbishment or Demolition Survey

An asbestos refurbishment or demolition survey is a more intrusive survey that is carried out when a building or property is being stripped out or demolished. This type of survey is essential to identify the presence of ACMs that could be disturbed during the refurbishment or demolition works.

The purpose of an asbestos refurbishment or demolition survey is to locate all ACMs within a building or property and assess their condition. The survey will include a detailed report that identifies the type, location, and condition of any ACMs found, as well as recommendations for their safe removal and disposal.

The Process of Conducting an Asbestos Survey

Now that we have covered the types of asbestos surveys available, let's discuss the process of conducting an asbestos survey. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, our experienced surveyors follow a rigorous process to ensure that all ACMs are identified and assessed accurately.

Step 1: Initial Consultation

The first step in conducting an asbestos survey is to arrange an initial consultation with the property owner or client. During this consultation, we will discuss the type of asbestos survey required, the scope of the survey, and any specific requirements or concerns that the client may have.

We will also discuss the access arrangements for the survey, including any areas of the building or property that are difficult to access or require special authorization.

Step 2: Site Preparation

Once the initial consultation has been completed and the scope of the survey has been agreed, the surveyor will carry out site preparation. This typically involves setting up a decontamination area, where the surveyor can change into protective clothing, and setting up the necessary equipment, such as a surveying microscope and sampling tools.

Step 3: Visual Inspection

The surveyor will then carry out a visual inspection of the building or property to identify any visible ACMs. This involves examining all areas of the building or property, including ceilings, walls, floors, and services, such as heating and ventilation systems.

During the visual inspection, the surveyor will also take photographs and record any relevant details, such as the type of material and its location.

Step 4: Sampling

If any potential ACMs are identified during the visual inspection, the surveyor will take samples for laboratory analysis. This involves taking a small piece of the material and sealing it in a special container for testing.

The surveyor will also take air samples to measure the concentration of airborne asbestos fibers. This is especially important during a refurbishment or demolition survey, where the disturbance of ACMs could release asbestos fibers into the air.

Step 5: Laboratory Analysis

The samples collected during the survey will be sent to a UKAS-accredited laboratory for analysis. The laboratory analysis will confirm whether the material contains asbestos and, if so, the type and concentration of asbestos fibers.

Step 6: Survey Report

Once the laboratory analysis is complete, the surveyor will prepare a detailed report that includes the following information:

• The type, location, and condition of all ACMs identified
• The type and concentration of asbestos fibers found in each sample
• An assessment of the risk posed by the ACMs and any recommendations for their management or removal
• A summary of the survey findings and recommendations

The survey report will be provided to the property owner or client, and a copy will also be sent to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

What Happens After the Asbestos Survey is Completed?

Once the asbestos survey is complete, the property owner or client will receive a copy of the survey report, which will include recommendations for the management or removal of any ACMs identified.

If ACMs are identified during the survey, it is the responsibility of the property owner or client to ensure that they are safely managed or removed. If removal is necessary, it is important to hire a licensed asbestos removal contractor to carry out the work.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we offer comprehensive asbestos management and removal services to ensure that your property is free from asbestos and safe for occupants. As a licensed asbestos removal contractor, we have the expertise and experience to safely remove all types of ACMs, including those identified during an asbestos survey.

Conclusion

Asbestos surveys are essential to identify the presence of ACMs and assess their condition in buildings and properties in Hampshire and throughout the UK. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we offer comprehensive asbestos survey and management services to ensure that your property is free from asbestos and safe for occupants.

If you require an asbestos survey or have any concerns about asbestos in your building or property, contact us today on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected]. We are here to help you with all your asbestos-related needs.