How Long Does Asbestos Testing Take in Hampshire?

Asbestos is a silent killer that can cause serious health problems when inhaled. The dangerous mineral was used widely in building construction and manufacturing until it was banned in the UK in 1999. Buildings constructed before this period may still contain asbestos, which is why it is necessary to conduct an asbestos survey before any renovation or demolition. The survey will identify the presence of asbestos and provide the necessary information on how to manage and remove it safely.

If you need an asbestos survey in Hampshire, the first question that may come to your mind is how long it would take. It is understandable to want to know how long the process will take, as it affects your business or family. In this article, we will discuss in detail the time frame for asbestos testing in Hampshire and why it varies.

Who are Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire?

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire is an asbestos testing, removal, and disposal company serving Hampshire and its surroundings. Our asbestos surveyors are experienced professionals qualified to undertake both management and refurbishment/demolition surveys in accordance with the HSE guidelines. We are accredited to ISO 9001 and ISO 14001, and our testing laboratory is UKAS accredited, which means that we adhere to strict quality standards.

We understand that asbestos testing can be a cause for concern, especially for businesses that cannot afford any downtime. That is why we work hard to ensure that we provide reliable and timely asbestos testing services. Our goal is to ensure that every building owner in Hampshire gets the peace of mind they need, knowing that their building is asbestos-free.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a silicate mineral that was used widely in building construction materials and manufacturing from the 1950s to the 1990s. It is made up of thin, microscopic fibers that can remain airborne for long periods, making them easy to inhale. When these fibers are inhaled, they can cause severe health issues such as lung cancer, asbestosis, mesothelioma, and other respiratory diseases.

Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can be found in various building materials such as insulation, floor tiles, cement sheets, and pipes. Inhaling asbestos fibers can be dangerous, which is why it is essential to have an asbestos survey done to identify the presence of ACMs.

Why do You Need an Asbestos Survey?

If you own a building constructed before 1999, it is possible that it contains asbestos. The asbestos may be in a safe condition and not posing a risk, but it can still be dangerous when disturbed. Therefore, it is essential to have an asbestos survey carried out before any renovation or demolition work. The purpose of the survey is to identify the presence, location, and condition of any ACMs in the property.

The asbestos survey will also provide recommendations on how to manage and remove the asbestos safely. The report will help you to:

• Identify the type and location of ACMs within the building
• Assess the risk posed by the ACMs
• Develop a plan to manage the asbestos-containing materials
• Remove the asbestos, if necessary

What is an Asbestos Survey?

An asbestos survey is a comprehensive inspection that aims to identify any ACMs in a building. There are two types of surveys:

1. Management Survey - A management survey is a non-intrusive, visual inspection of the building's structure to identify any asbestos-containing materials that may present a risk to people who may encounter them during normal occupancy or maintenance.

2. Refurbishment/Demolition Survey - A refurbishment/demolition survey is intrusive and aims to identify all ACMs, including those that may be hidden within the building structure. This type of survey is necessary before any demolition or major refurbishment work, as it provides the necessary information on how to manage and remove the asbestos safely.

Who Conducts Asbestos Surveys?

An asbestos survey must be carried out by a qualified and experienced asbestos surveyor. The surveyor must have undergone appropriate training and hold a valid certificate of competency from a recognized body. The asbestos surveyor must also be impartial and independent of any asbestos removal or remediation services.

Samples and Results

During the asbestos survey, the surveyor may need to take samples of suspected ACMs for testing. The samples will be analyzed in a UKAS accredited laboratory to determine whether they contain asbestos fibers and, if so, what type of asbestos it is. The samples' results will be included in the survey report, which will be sent to the client.

How Long Does an Asbestos Survey Take?

The duration of an asbestos survey varies depending on the type, size, and complexity of the building. A management survey for a small building may take a day, while a more extensive survey for a large structure may take several days or even weeks. Similarly, a refurbishment/demolition survey may take longer than a management survey as it involves more intrusive methods of inspection.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we strive to provide our clients with the most accurate and timely asbestos testing services. We understand that time is of the essence in certain situations, so we work hard to ensure that we keep our turnaround times to a minimum without sacrificing the quality of our services.

Conclusion

Asbestos testing is a crucial process that determines whether a building contains asbestos and, if so, what type of asbestos it is. Whether you are a homeowner or a business owner, it is essential to have an asbestos survey carried out to ensure that you and others are safe.

The length of time it takes to conduct an asbestos survey depends on various factors, including the type, size, and complexity of the building. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we strive to provide our clients with timely and reliable asbestos testing services.

Contact us today at 01962 458066, and our accredited asbestos surveyors will provide you with the necessary information you need to manage and remove any asbestos-containing materials safely. You can also visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-hampshire.co.uk for more information.