How Often Should I Have An Asbestos Survey In Hampshire?

Hampshire is a mainly rural county in South East England with a population of over 1.8 million. It includes major cities such as Portsmouth, Southampton and Winchester, as well as many smaller towns and villages. Hampshire has a long history of industrial activity, with many buildings constructed before the risks associated with asbestos were fully understood. Asbestos is a hazardous material that was widely used in building construction until banned in the UK in 1999, and can cause serious health problems for those who are exposed to it. If you own or manage a building in Hampshire, it is essential to understand the need for asbestos surveys and management.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire is a reputable asbestos survey company in Hampshire with many years of experience in the industry. We are dedicated to providing high-quality asbestos surveys and management services that are both affordable and efficient. Our team of experts is trained to identify, assess, and manage the risks associated with asbestos in buildings and properties in Hampshire.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring fibrous minerals that were widely used in building materials due to their durability and resistance to heat, fire and chemicals. The use of asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999, but many buildings constructed before this time still contain asbestos materials in various forms. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed or damaged, they can release fine fibers into the air, which can be inhaled and cause serious health problems such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Asbestos can be found in many building materials, including insulation, flooring, roofing, and heating systems.

What is a Survey?

An asbestos survey is a systematic inspection of a building or property to identify any asbestos-containing materials that may be present. The survey is carried out by a trained and qualified asbestos surveyor who will visually inspect the building and take samples of suspected materials for laboratory testing. The surveyor will also assess the condition of any asbestos-containing materials and determine whether they pose a risk of exposure to occupants or workers. There are two types of surveys: a management survey and a demolition survey.

Management Survey

A management survey is designed to identify the presence, location, and condition of any asbestos-containing materials in a building or property that may be disturbed during maintenance, repair, or other routine activities. The survey is carried out while the building is in occupation and does not involve any intrusive work. The surveyor will inspect all accessible areas of the building, including ceilings, walls, floors, and services such as heating and ventilation systems.

A management survey is required by law under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, and should be carried out at regular intervals to ensure that any asbestos-containing materials are managed safely and effectively. The frequency of management surveys will depend on a number of factors, including the age and condition of the building, the nature of the activities carried out within the building, and the type of asbestos-containing materials present. In general, a management survey should be carried out at least every two to three years.

Demolition Survey

A demolition survey is designed to identify and locate all asbestos-containing materials in a building or property that may be disturbed during demolition or major refurbishment. The survey is carried out before any demolition or major refurbishment work begins, and involves intrusive work such as breaking into walls and ceilings to access hidden areas. A demolition survey is required by law under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, and should only be carried out by a qualified and experienced asbestos surveyor.

Why Do You Need an Asbestos Survey?

If you own or manage a building or property in Hampshire, you have a legal responsibility to ensure that any asbestos-containing materials are managed safely and effectively. An asbestos survey is the first step in identifying and managing any asbestos risks in your building. Without a survey, you will not know whether asbestos is present, and you will not be able to take the necessary steps to manage any risks that may be present. Failure to comply with the regulations can result in legal action, fines, and even imprisonment.

How Often Should You Have an Asbestos Survey?

The frequency of asbestos surveys will depend on a number of factors, including the age and condition of the building, the nature of the activities carried out within the building, and the type of asbestos-containing materials present. In general, a management survey should be carried out at least every two to three years or if there is a change in the use of the building. A demolition survey is required before any demolition or major refurbishment work begins.

It is also important to note that if you suspect that asbestos is present, you should carry out an asbestos survey immediately. The presence of asbestos may not always be obvious, and it is better to be safe than sorry.

Choose Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we understand the importance of asbestos surveys and management, and we are committed to providing our clients with high-quality services that are both affordable and efficient. Our team of experts is trained to identify, assess, and manage the risks associated with asbestos in buildings and properties in Hampshire. Contact us today on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected] to discuss your asbestos survey requirements, and we will be happy to provide you with a competitive quote.