How Often Does an Asbestos Survey Need Conducting in Hampshire?

Asbestos has long been recognized as a dangerous substance that can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. As a result, regulations have been put in place to manage the use of asbestos in buildings and to ensure that it is removed safely. One of the most important aspects of managing asbestos is conducting regular surveys to identify its presence, location, and condition. In this article, we will explore the topic of asbestos surveys in Hampshire and answer the question of how often they need to be conducted.

Who Are Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire?

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire are a specialist asbestos surveying and removal company based in Hampshire. We provide a range of services to help manage the risks associated with asbestos in buildings, including surveys, assessments, and removals. With many years of experience in the industry, we are experts at identifying and managing asbestos in all types of buildings, from residential homes to large commercial premises.

What Is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials until the 1980s when its dangers were first recognized. Asbestos has many desirable properties that made it a popular material for construction, including its strength, durability, and resistance to heat and fire. However, when asbestos fibers are released into the air and inhaled, they can cause serious damage to the lungs and other organs.

Asbestos was commonly used in a range of building materials, including insulation, roofing, ceiling tiles, flooring, and cement. Many buildings constructed before the 1990s are likely to contain asbestos, although it may not always be visible.

When Is An Asbestos Survey Required?

An asbestos survey is required whenever a building is being renovated or demolished, or if there is a suspicion that asbestos may be present. The survey is designed to identify any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in the building and assess their condition. The survey will also determine the risk of exposure to people working or occupying the building.

In general, there are two types of asbestos surveys: management surveys and refurbishment/demolition surveys.

Management Surveys

A management survey is designed to identify ACMs that are likely to be encountered during routine maintenance or other work on a building. This type of survey is required under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, which apply to all non-domestic buildings built before 2000.

The aim of a management survey is to locate, as far as reasonably practicable, the presence and extent of any suspect ACMs in the building. The survey is carried out by a competent surveyor who will inspect all accessible areas of the building, including ceilings, walls, floors, and service ducts.

Refurbishment/Demolition Surveys

A refurbishment/demolition survey is required when a building is to be refurbished or demolished. This type of survey is more intrusive than a management survey and may involve destructive work, such as drilling or cutting into walls and floors.

The aim of a refurbishment/demolition survey is to identify all ACMs in the building that may be disturbed during the work. This type of survey is required under Regulation 5 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and must be carried out by a competent surveyor with relevant experience in this type of survey.

How Often Does An Asbestos Survey Need Conducting in Hampshire?

The frequency of asbestos surveys will depend on several factors, including the age and condition of the building, the type of asbestos-containing materials present, and the level of risk involved.

In general, it is recommended that a management survey is carried out every 3-5 years, or whenever there is a change in the use or occupancy of the building. This is to ensure that any new risks are identified and managed, and any previously identified ACMs are re-inspected.

A refurbishment/demolition survey is required whenever significant work is to be carried out on a building, such as a renovation or demolition. This type of survey should be carried out before any work commences to ensure that all ACMs are identified and safely removed or managed.

Why Is Regular Asbestos Surveying Important?

Regular asbestos surveying is important for a number of reasons. Firstly, it helps to ensure the safety of anyone using or working in a building that may contain asbestos. By identifying and managing the risks associated with asbestos, you can protect the health of everyone involved.

Secondly, regular asbestos surveying helps to ensure compliance with legal obligations. Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, all non-domestic buildings built before 2000 are required to have a management survey, and all buildings being renovated or demolished must have a refurbishment/demolition survey.

Finally, regular asbestos surveying can help to prevent costly surprises. If asbestos is found during a refurbishment or demolition project, it can cause delays and additional costs as the asbestos is safely removed or managed. By conducting regular surveys, you can identify any ACMs and plan for their safe removal or management before any work is carried out.

Conclusion

Asbestos is a dangerous substance that must be managed carefully to protect the health and safety of everyone involved. Regular surveys are an essential part of managing the risks associated with asbestos, and the frequency of surveys will depend on several factors, including the age and condition of the building, the type of ACMs present, and the level of risk involved.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire are experts in asbestos surveying and removal, and we are here to help you manage the risks associated with asbestos in your building. If you have any questions or concerns about asbestos, or would like to arrange a survey, please don't hesitate to contact us on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected].