How Often Should I Review My Asbestos Survey in Hampshire?

Are you a property owner in Hampshire and concerned about the presence of asbestos in your building or premises? Asbestos is a dangerous substance that was commonly used in building materials until it was banned in the UK in 1999. If your building was constructed prior to this, it is possible that it contains asbestos.

Asbestos can cause serious health problems when its fibres are released into the air and inhaled. The most common conditions associated with asbestos exposure are lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Therefore, it is essential to have an asbestos survey carried out to determine if there is any asbestos-containing material (ACM) in your building or property.

In this article, we will discuss the importance of asbestos surveys, the frequency at which they should be reviewed, and why it is crucial to comply with regulations and guidelines related to asbestos.

Who are Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire?

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire is a professional asbestos survey company in Hampshire and the South East of England. Our team of experienced surveyors is dedicated to providing cost-effective asbestos services to domestic and commercial customers. Our services include asbestos surveys, sampling, testing, and removal.

We understand the risks associated with asbestos exposure and the importance of proper management and removal of ACMs. Our goal is to ensure that your property is safe and asbestos-free.

What is an Asbestos Survey?

An asbestos survey is a comprehensive inspection of a building or property to identify the presence, location, and condition of any ACMs. The survey is usually carried out by a qualified and licensed asbestos surveyor who will assess the building's condition and take samples of any suspect material.

There are two types of asbestos surveys:

Management Asbestos Survey

This survey is intended for properties that are in use and where the presence of ACMs is suspected. The survey is designed to identify the location and condition of any ACM within the building and assess the risk of exposure. The survey is usually non-intrusive, and samples are taken only where necessary.

Refurbishment and Demolition Asbestos Survey

This survey is required before any refurbishment or demolition work takes place. It is more intrusive than a management survey and involves a full inspection of the building or property, including hidden areas such as ceilings and voids. The survey will identify all ACMs within the building and their condition to determine if they need to be removed before work can begin.

Why Do I Need an Asbestos Survey?

If your building was constructed before 1999, it is highly likely that it contains asbestos. ACMs can be found in a wide range of building materials, including insulation, floor tiles, cement products, and roofing materials.

An asbestos survey is necessary to identify the presence of ACMs, their location, and condition. This information is essential to ensure the safety of anyone who uses or works in the building or property.

If asbestos is identified, it must be managed or removed to prevent exposure to its fibres. Failure to comply with regulations and guidelines related to asbestos can result in fines, legal action, and harm to human health.

How Often Should I Review My Asbestos Survey?

Once an asbestos survey has been conducted, it is vital to keep the information up-to-date by reviewing the survey regularly.

The frequency at which reviews should take place depends on several factors, including:

• The condition of the ACM
• The location of the ACM
• The accessibility of the ACM
• Any changes made to the building or property

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends reviewing asbestos surveys at least once a year, and more frequently if any significant changes have occurred to the building or property.

Significant changes that may require a review of the asbestos survey include:

• Renovations or refurbishments
• Demolition or construction work
• Changes in the building's use or occupancy

Any changes to the building's fabric or intended use can disturb previously stable ACMs, releasing asbestos fibres into the air.

Additionally, it is essential to review the asbestos survey if any suspected ACMs have not been identified or if changes to the building's condition have affected the risk of exposure.

What are the Risks of Not Reviewing My Asbestos Survey?

Not reviewing your asbestos survey regularly can have severe consequences. Failing to comply with regulations and guidelines related to asbestos can result in fines and legal action. Moreover, it puts the health of the building's occupants, employees, and visitors at risk.

If asbestos is disturbed, fibres can be released into the air, causing serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. These conditions can take years to develop and are often fatal.

Therefore, it is essential to ensure that your building is free from ACMs and that your asbestos survey is regularly reviewed and updated.

Conclusion

In conclusion, asbestos is a hazardous substance that can cause severe health problems when its fibres are released into the air and inhaled. Therefore, it is crucial to have an asbestos survey carried out in any building constructed before 1999 to identify the presence of ACMs.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire is a professional asbestos survey company in Hampshire and the South East of England. Our team of experienced surveyors is dedicated to providing cost-effective asbestos services to domestic and commercial customers.

Asbestos surveys should be reviewed at least once a year, and more frequently if any significant changes have occurred to the building or property. Failure to comply with regulations and guidelines related to asbestos can result in fines, legal action, and harm to human health.

If you would like to book an asbestos survey with Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, please Contact us on 01962 458066 or Email us at [email protected]. Our Website is affordable-asbestos-removal-hampshire.co.uk.