Do Flat Management Companies Have To Get An Asbestos Survey In Devon

Asbestos is a hazardous material that was widely used in buildings and construction industries until the 1990s. It was popular due to its flexibility, durability, and resistance to heat and fire. However, its use was banned in the UK in 1999 when its dangers to human health were discovered. Asbestos is a carcinogenic and can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Therefore, it is crucial to manage it properly, especially in buildings constructed before 2000. In this article, we will discuss whether flat management companies have to get an asbestos survey in Devon.

Who is Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon?

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a reputable asbestos survey company in Devon. We provide a range of asbestos-related services to commercial, industrial, and residential clients in Devon and South West England. Our team of specialists is fully licensed, insured and trained to handle asbestos safely and efficiently. We offer affordable prices without compromising on quality, and we use the latest equipment and techniques to ensure thoroughness and accuracy.

Asbestos Survey

An asbestos survey is a specific examination of a building or part of a building to identify and assess the presence, type, and condition of asbestos materials. There are two types of asbestos surveys: Management Survey and Refurbishment/Demolition Survey.

Management Survey

A Management Survey is a non-destructive inspection of a building or part of a building to identify the presence and condition of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). The purpose of the survey is to assess the risk of exposure to asbestos of people using the building, e.g. workers or residents. A Management Survey will involve sampling and assessing materials that contain asbestos that are easily accessible and may be damaged or disturbed during normal occupation or maintenance of premises.

Refurbishment/Demolition Survey

A Refurbishment/Demolition Survey is more intrusive and destructive than a Management Survey. It is carried out when a building or part of a building is to be refurbished or demolished. The purpose of the survey is to identify and assess all ACMs likely to be disturbed during the refurbishment or demolition work. The survey will involve sampling and assessing materials in all areas, including those that are not easily accessible, such as behind walls or above ceilings.

Asbestos Survey Required

According to the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, duty holders have a responsibility to manage asbestos in non-domestic properties, including communal areas of flats. The duty holder will be the person or company responsible for maintaining and managing the building. This may be the landlord, the managing agent or the flat management company.

The duty holder is expected to undertake a Management Survey to identify the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in the building. The survey will also assess the condition of ACMs, their location, and the risk of exposure to asbestos for people using the building. The survey should be reviewed, and if necessary, updated at least annually, or if there is any significant change in the building, e.g. refurbishment, demolition or change of use.

Additionally, if there is any refurbishment or demolition work planned, the duty holder must ensure that a Refurbishment/Demolition Survey is carried out before any work commences. The survey should identify all ACMs in the work area and ensure that they are removed or managed before work starts.

Managing Asbestos

Managing asbestos is not just about carrying out surveys; it also involves ensuring that any ACMs are safely managed and maintained. This may include sealing or encapsulating materials, enclosing them in a separate area or registering them as part of an asbestos management plan.

Furthermore, the duty holder must ensure that all persons likely to come into contact with asbestos, such as maintenance workers, cleaners, or contractors, are appropriately trained and instructed on how to handle asbestos safely. They should also have access to suitable personal protective equipment and follow safe working procedures.

ACM Duty to Manage

The duty to manage asbestos in non-domestic properties is outlined in the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. The regulations require the duty holder to:

• Identify any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in the building, e.g. by conducting a Management Survey.
• Assess the risk of exposure of people using the building to asbestos.
• Develop and implement an appropriate management action plan, including the removal or safe management of ACMs.
• Regularly review and update the management plan, as necessary.

The duty holder can delegate some or all of these responsibilities to a third party, such as a specialist contractor or consultant. However, they remain legally responsible for ensuring that the duty to manage is fulfilled.

Asbestos and Fire Safety

Asbestos is a highly flammable material and can pose a significant risk in the event of a fire. When asbestos-containing materials burn, they release toxic fumes that are hazardous to human health. Moreover, ACMs can weaken the structural integrity of a building, making it more vulnerable to collapse in the event of a fire.

Therefore, it is essential to manage asbestos properly and ensure that any significant fire risks are identified and addressed. This may include removing or sealing ACMs, installing fire-resistant materials, or implementing additional fire protection measures.

Use of Building Survey

A Use of Building Survey is a type of survey that assesses the suitability of a building for a specific purpose, such as for residential or commercial use. It examines the building's structure, condition, and any potential hazards, such as asbestos or fire risks.

A Use of Building Survey should include an assessment of the presence and condition of any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in the building. This will ensure that any potential risks of exposure to asbestos are identified and addressed before the building is used for any purpose.

Could ACMs Be Damaged?

Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can become damaged over time due to wear and tear, exposure to the elements, or accidental damage. Once damaged, ACMs can release fibres into the air, which can be hazardous to human health if inhaled.

Therefore, it is crucial to identify any damaged or deteriorating ACMs and address them promptly. This may include sealing or encapsulating the materials or removing them entirely, depending on the extent of the damage.

Conclusion

In summary, flat management companies in Devon and South West England have a legal duty to manage asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in communal areas of flats. This includes carrying out a Management Survey to identify any ACMs in the building, assessing the risk of exposure to asbestos, and developing and implementing a management action plan.

If there is any refurbishment or demolition work planned, a Refurbishment/Demolition Survey must be carried out to identify and assess all ACMs in the work area. The duty to manage asbestos also involves ensuring that all persons likely to come into contact with asbestos are trained and instructed on how to handle it safely.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a professional asbestos survey company in Devon that can help flat management companies and other duty holders to manage asbestos safely and cost-effectively. Please contact us on 01962 458066 or via email at [email protected] to discuss your requirements.