How Often Do You Have to Have an Asbestos Survey in Hampshire?

Asbestos is a dangerous material that was used extensively in construction until the 1990s. It was only then that the risks associated with asbestos exposure became more widely understood. As a result, all properties built before 2000 are likely to contain asbestos.

If you own or manage a property in Hampshire, it is important to be aware of the regulations regarding asbestos surveys. Asbestos surveys are essential to identify asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in the premises, which ensures that risks are managed and everyone on site is kept safe. In this article, we will explore the frequency of asbestos surveys and why they are important.

About Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we are a trusted asbestos survey company in Hampshire, serving customers across South East England. Our team has years of experience in the industry and we are fully licensed to undertake all types of asbestos surveys.

Asbestos can be found in a wide range of materials, including insulation, ceiling tiles, and cement. Our expert team can help to identify these materials and assess the risk they pose to the health and safety of the occupants of a building.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral that was once widely used in construction due to its insulating properties. It was found in a range of materials including insulation, roofing materials, and floor tiles.

Asbestos exposure can lead to diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Asbestos fibres are particularly dangerous if they are inhaled, as they can cause damage to the lungs and other organs.

What is an Asbestos Survey?

An asbestos survey is a process of identifying the presence and location of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in a building. The purpose of the survey is to provide an accurate record of the location, type, and condition of all ACMs in the building.

There are two types of asbestos surveys:

Management Survey

A management survey is an assessment of the risk that any ACMs pose to the occupants of a building. It involves a thorough inspection of all accessible areas of the premises to identify any ACMs.

The purpose of a management survey is to establish the presence and condition of any ACMs in a building. The survey will also provide guidance on how to manage the ACMs safely.

Demolition or Refurbishment Survey

A demolition or refurbishment survey is required when a building is due to be refurbished or demolished. The survey is more intrusive than a management survey and is designed to identify all ACMs, even those that are not easily accessible.

The survey will provide information on the location, type, and extent of any ACMs in the building. It will also advise on the condition of the ACMs and whether they need to be removed before any work can be carried out.

How Often Do You Need an Asbestos Survey?

The frequency of asbestos surveys depends on the type of property and its use. For commercial properties, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 requires employers to identify any ACMs in the workplace and manage the risks associated with them.

As a general rule, you should have a management asbestos survey carried out every two years, or sooner if there are any changes in the building or its use. If you are undertaking any refurbishments or demolition work, you will need a demolition or refurbishment survey carried out.

For domestic properties, there is no legal requirement to have an asbestos survey. However, if you are planning any building work, it is advisable to undertake a management asbestos survey to identify any ACMs that may be present.

The Importance of Asbestos Surveys

Asbestos surveys are important because they identify the presence and location of any ACMs in a building. Once ACMs have been identified, the risks associated with them can be managed and controlled.

Asbestos surveys are particularly important for buildings that are due to be refurbished or demolished. If ACMs are present in such premises, they need to be safely removed before work can commence.

Asbestos surveys are also important for commercial properties because they form part of the Health and Safety at Work Act requirements. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to fines and legal action.

Managing Asbestos

If ACMs are identified in a building, it is important to manage them responsibly. The first step is to create an asbestos register, which is a record of all ACMs in the building. This register should be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure it remains accurate.

Once an asbestos register has been created, it is important to manage the risks associated with the ACMs. This may involve sealing or encapsulating the ACMs, or safely removing them if they pose a significant risk.

Health and Safety

Asbestos surveys and management are essential for the health and safety of everyone on site. The presence of ACMs can pose a serious risk to the health of occupants, particularly in cases where the fibres are disturbed and released into the air.

By identifying ACMs and managing the risks associated with them, it is possible to ensure the safety of everyone on site. This is why asbestos surveys are so important, and why it is vital to have them carried out regularly.

Conclusion

If you are a property owner or manager in Hampshire, it is important to be aware of the regulations regarding asbestos surveys. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we are experts in asbestos surveys and management, and we can help to ensure that your property is safe and compliant with the relevant regulations.

To find out more about our services, please contact us on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected]. We are a trusted asbestos survey company in Hampshire, and we are committed to providing our customers with the highest standards of service and safety.