What Are The 2 Types Of Asbestos Survey In Hampshire?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in industries and building materials due to its heat-resistant properties. However, it is now known to be a hazardous material that can cause deadly diseases like mesothelioma and lung cancer. As a result, it is essential to identify and manage asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in buildings to ensure the health and safety of occupants and workers.

In Hampshire, south-east England, there are two types of asbestos surveys that building owners and managers must consider - Management Surveys and Refurbishment/Demolition Surveys. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we are a specialist asbestos survey company in Hampshire offering comprehensive asbestos surveys to property owners and managers in the area. In this article, we explore the two types of asbestos survey and their importance in managing ACMs.

Introduction to Asbestos

Before we delve into the types of asbestos surveys, it is crucial to understand what asbestos is and why it is a health hazard. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has excellent heat-resistant properties, making it ideal for use in building materials like insulation, roofing, and flooring. Asbestos fibers are tiny, and when they become airborne, they can be inhaled, leading to respiratory problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

The dangers of asbestos exposure were not well known until the 1970s, and as a result, it was widely used in construction materials. This means that many buildings constructed before the 1980s may contain asbestos, and it is vital to identify and manage any ACMs to avoid putting people's health at risk.

Asbestos Surveys

Asbestos surveys are essential for identifying and managing ACMs, thus reducing exposure risks. They involve a detailed inspection of a building or structure to determine the location, type, and condition of ACMs. The purpose of asbestos surveys is to:

• Locate any potential ACMs in a building or structure
• Assess the condition of identified ACMs
• Determine the type of asbestos material
• Evaluate the risk of exposure to ACMs
• Develop a plan for managing ACMs

There are two types of asbestos surveys in Hampshire, as outlined below.

1. Management Surveys

A Management Survey is the standard type of asbestos survey that is required for all non-domestic buildings constructed before 2000. The survey is non-intrusive and is designed to locate and assess the condition of any ACMs within a building or structure that may be damaged, disturbed, or in poor condition. A Management Survey involves:

• Sampling materials suspected to contain asbestos
• Assessing the condition of any ACMs found
• Preparing a report detailing the survey findings
• Creating an asbestos register for the building
• Developing an asbestos management plan to ensure the risk of exposure is minimized.

It is recommended that a Management Survey is carried out as part of routine building maintenance, especially when changes to the building's fabric or layout are planned.

2. Refurbishment/Demolition Survey

A Refurbishment/Demolition Survey (R/D Survey) is necessary when refurbishing or demolishing a building or structure that was constructed before the year 2000. The survey is intrusive, and it involves extensive sampling and testing of materials to identify any ACMs that may be disturbed during refurbishment or demolition work.

An R/D Survey involves:

• Locating and sampling all areas of the building that are affected by the proposed refurbishment or demolition work
• Preparing a report detailing the survey findings
• Creating an asbestos register for the building
• Developing an asbestos removal plan to ensure the risk of exposure is minimized.

It should be noted that any ACMs identified during an R/D survey must be removed by a licensed asbestos removal contractor before the demolition or refurbishment work commences. Failure to do so may put workers and occupants at risk of asbestos exposure.

Choosing the Right Asbestos Survey Company in Hampshire

Choosing the right asbestos survey company in Hampshire is vital to ensuring that you receive accurate and reliable survey results. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we are a specialist asbestos survey company in Hampshire with years of experience in identifying and managing ACMs. Our team of qualified and experienced surveyors uses the latest equipment and techniques to deliver high-quality surveys that meet all legal requirements.

We offer both Management and Refurbishment/Demolition Surveys, and our surveys are tailored to meet your specific needs. Our survey reports are detailed and easy to understand, and we provide practical advice and recommendations to help you manage any ACMs identified during the survey.

Contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire

If you require an asbestos survey company in Hampshire, look no further than Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is always on hand to discuss your survey requirements and provide you with a competitive quote. You can reach us on 01962 458066 or by emailing [email protected]. Alternatively, you can visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-hampshire.co.uk for more information about our services.

Don't put yourself or others at risk of asbestos exposure. Contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire today for reliable and affordable asbestos surveys in Hampshire.