What Asbestos Survey Do I Need In Hampshire?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials due to its heat resistance and durability. However, exposure to asbestos fibers can cause serious health issues such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Asbestos was not banned in the UK until 1999, which means that it can still be found in many older buildings, particularly those constructed before the 1980s.

If you own a property in Hampshire, it is essential that you understand the importance of asbestos surveys and take the necessary steps to manage any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) on your premises. This guide will help you to understand the different types of asbestos surveys available and which one would be most suitable for your property.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire is a professional asbestos survey company based in Hampshire. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, we have the expertise and knowledge to provide reliable and cost-effective asbestos surveys tailored to your needs. Our team of experienced surveyors are fully trained and qualified to carry out asbestos surveys in compliance with the latest regulations.

To ensure the safety of your building and its occupants, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the extent and location of any ACMs on your property. Our services include asbestos surveying, sampling and testing to determine whether or not asbestos is present in any materials. In addition, we provide management plans, risk assessments and advice on the safe removal of ACMs.

Asbestos Survey Regulations

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR) is the legal framework that governs the management of asbestos in the UK. The regulations require the duty-holder of a non-domestic property to manage any ACMs on their premises by conducting an asbestos survey and risk assessment. This applies to all commercial, industrial and public buildings, including those where the public has access, such as schools and hospitals.

Domestic properties are not subject to the same legal requirements, but it is still recommended to have an asbestos survey undertaken if the property was constructed before 1999, as this was when the use of asbestos was finally banned in the UK.

The duty-holder is responsible for ensuring that any ACMs are properly managed and, where necessary, removed. Failing to comply with the regulations is a criminal offence and can result in severe penalties.

Types of Asbestos Surveys

There are two main types of asbestos surveys: management surveys and refurbishment/demolition surveys.

Management Surveys

A management survey is the most common type of asbestos survey, and it is designed to identify the presence, location and extent of any ACMs that could potentially be disturbed or damaged during normal occupancy, maintenance or repair of a building.

This type of survey is intended to help manage any asbestos-containing materials by assessing their condition and identifying any risks associated with them. The survey will also provide recommendations for any remedial action that may be required to manage the asbestos safely.

Refurbishment/Demolition Surveys

A refurbishment/demolition survey is more intrusive than a management survey and is required before any refurbishment or demolition work takes place on a building. This type of survey is designed to identify all ACMs in the building, including those that are less accessible.

The survey is intended to provide detailed information about the location, type, and condition of any ACMs that may be impacted by the proposed work to ensure they are safely removed before any work begins.

Asbestos Survey Type 2000

The Asbestos Survey Type 2000 is a variation of the management survey and is specifically designed for residential properties. This type of survey is intended to identify the presence and condition of any ACMs that could be disturbed or damaged during normal occupancy, maintenance, or repair of the property.

This type of survey is recommended for all residential properties constructed before 1999, as it is likely that these buildings will contain some form of asbestos-containing materials. This survey is non-intrusive and is conducted using a combination of visual inspection and sampling techniques.

Asbestos Survey Areas

During an asbestos survey, the entire property must be inspected to ensure that all ACMs are identified. The surveyor will examine all accessible areas, including roofs, ceilings, walls, floors, insulation, and pipes. The survey may also include sampling and testing of materials suspected of containing asbestos.

Special attention should be given to any areas of the building that have been damaged or disturbed, such as near windows or doors, as asbestos-containing materials may have been released into the air.

Management of ACMs

Once a survey has identified any ACMs in a property, it is essential to put in place a management plan to ensure their safe management. The management plan should take into account the condition of the materials, the likelihood of them being disturbed and the level of risk posed to people in and around the building.

The management plan may include labelling of ACMs, regular inspections, risk assessments, and the provision of information to employees, contractors and others who may be exposed to asbestos-containing materials.

Safety Considerations

Asbestos poses a significant risk to health if it is not managed correctly, and it is essential that anyone who may encounter asbestos in the course of their work is aware of the risks and how to protect themselves.

It is important to ensure that any asbestos survey is carried out by a competent and trained professional who can identify potentially hazardous ACMs and advise on the correct course of action.

In addition, anyone who may come into contact with asbestos must be trained in the proper handling, disposal, and management of asbestos-containing materials to prevent exposure and minimize risk.

Conclusion

Asbestos surveys are an essential component of managing asbestos-containing materials in buildings, and it is essential that property owners understand the type of survey that is required for their property.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire is a professional asbestos survey company based in Hampshire. We provide a comprehensive range of asbestos services, including asbestos surveying, sampling and testing, management plans, and advice on safe removal.

For more information, call us on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected]. We are dedicated to ensuring the safety of your building and its occupants, and we look forward to helping you manage any asbestos-containing materials in your property.