Can A Survey Discover Asbestos In Devon?

Introduction

Asbestos is a mineral that was commonly used in building materials until the 1980s. It was used because it is durable, fire-resistant, and versatile. However, it was later found to be a health hazard as exposure to asbestos can cause serious illnesses such as mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis. Asbestos-containing materials can still be found in many buildings in Devon and throughout the UK, especially those built between the 1950s and 1980s. Therefore, it is essential to have an asbestos survey to identify whether there are any asbestos-containing materials in the building. In this article, we discuss the importance of asbestos surveys in Devon.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a professional asbestos survey company in Devon, with extensive experience in asbestos management, surveying, removal and disposal. Our team of qualified professionals is fully trained and equipped to handle all types of asbestos surveys, regardless of the size of the building.

We offer affordable asbestos surveys in Devon to ensure that your building is safe for occupation. Our surveys are thorough and our reports are comprehensive, providing you with all the information you need to manage any asbestos containing materials (ACMs) correctly.

Asbestos Survey

An asbestos survey is a report that identifies the presence of any asbestos-containing materials in a building. There are two types of asbestos survey, which are:

Management Survey

A management survey is carried out to locate any Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACMs) in a building and to assess their condition. The survey helps create an asbestos management plan which should include appropriate measures to manage the ACMs.

A management survey is a non-destructive survey that involves visual inspection and sampling of suspected ACMs. It is essential to have a management survey for non-domestic properties built before the year 2000. The survey is carried out at regular intervals to ensure any changes in the condition or location of ACMs are identified, and an update to the management plan is provided.

Refurbishment/Demolition Survey

A refurbishment/demolition survey is more extensive than a management survey, as it is designed to locate all ACMs before any refurbishment, demolition or repair work is carried out. The survey is intrusive, and it involves destructive investigation to access all areas of the building, including lifting floor coverings and breaking through walls and ceilings.

A refurbishment/demolition survey is essential where the building is due to undergo any significant refurbishment or structural work that could disturb ACMs. It provides information on the location, type, and condition of the ACMs so that the appropriate measures can be taken to safeguard people working in the building and protect the environment.

Surveys

As mentioned above, there are two types of surveys, which are management surveys and refurbishment/demolition surveys. The survey required will depend on the nature of the building, the type of work planned, and the age of the building.

For instance, a management survey is required for most non-domestic buildings build before the year 2000, while a refurbishment/demolition survey is necessary when a building is undergoing substantial refurbishment work or demolition.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we offer both management surveys and refurbishment/demolition surveys to suit the specific needs of our clients.

Materials

Asbestos can be found in several building materials, including insulation, roofing, flooring, ceiling tiles, and cement products. Some of the most common building materials that might contain asbestos are:

• Asbestos cement sheets and pipes
• Insulation for pipes and boilers
• Duct insulation
• Fire-resistant boards and panels
• Asbestos insulating boards
• Floor and ceiling tiles
• Textured coatings (such as Artex)

It is not easy to identify materials containing asbestos visually. Therefore, it is crucial to have an asbestos survey to get a clear understanding of the type, location and condition of ACMs.

Building Management

When ACMs are found within a building, it becomes essential to manage them correctly to ensure that individuals occupying the building are not exposed to asbestos fibres. The management of ACMs requires a plan that includes regular monitoring, labelling and notifying people and contractors that ACMs are present, and taking precautions when working in close proximity, such as using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and working under controlled conditions.

The management plan should be reviewed regularly, especially if any changes occur in the condition of the ACMs or the building use. A well-prepared management plan will prevent the release of asbestos fibres into the air, therefore preventing the risk of exposure to asbestos and contributing to a safer environment.

Health Risks

Exposure to asbestos can cause serious health risks, with long-term exposure dramatically increasing the likelihood of developing asbestos-related illnesses. It is essential to note that asbestos is only harmful when the fibres become airborne and can be inhaled into the lungs. Inhalation of asbestos fibres can lead to the following health problems:

• Mesothelioma - A rare form of cancer that affects the protective lining surrounding the lungs, stomach, and heart.
• Lung cancer - Lung cancer is the most common form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure.
• Asbestosis - A condition that develops due to long-term exposure to asbestos fibres, leading to scarring of the lungs.

There is no guarantee that an asbestos survey can eliminate the risks of asbestos exposure entirely. However, identifying and managing the presence of ACMs goes a long way in protecting the occupants of the building from the harmful effects of asbestos.

Why You Need An Asbestos Survey

If you are a property owner or manager of a building in Devon, it is essential to have an asbestos survey to identify and manage any ACMs that may be present. Here are some reasons why you need an asbestos survey:

Legislation

There are strict regulations around asbestos management and removal. It is, therefore, necessary to carry out an asbestos survey to ensure your building meets the legal requirements, such as the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, which stipulates that all non-domestic premises must have a management survey of ACMs.

Protecting Your Health

Asbestos exposure can cause serious health problems, some of which can be fatal. Identifying the presence of asbestos in your building can help you take precautions to prevent exposure to asbestos fibres.

Property Valuation

In addition to protecting the health of occupants, having an asbestos survey can help you get an accurate property valuation. The existence of ACMs can lower the value of the property, and identifying and managing them can help prevent this from happening.

Also in Devon, South West England

Devon is a county in South West England that covers an area of more than 6,500km2. The county is home to several towns and cities, including Plymouth, Exeter, and Torquay. The county has a diverse economy that includes tourism, agriculture, and the creative industries. There are also several notable landmarks and attractions in Devon that draw visitors from all over the world, including Dartmoor National Park, the Jurassic Coast, and the Eden Project.

Due to the presence of ACMs in many of the buildings in Devon, it is essential to have an asbestos survey to protect the health of the occupants and promote a safe environment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, asbestos surveys are essential in Devon to identify the presence of Asbestos-Containing Materials in buildings. Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon offers both management and refurbishment/demolition surveys to suit the specific needs of our clients. We understand the importance of managing ACMs to safeguard the health of building occupants, and we strive to provide affordable, efficient, and trustworthy surveys in Devon. Contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected] to book an asbestos survey and safeguard the health of your building's occupants.