Do It Yourself Asbestos Survey In Devon

Introduction

Welcome to Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, the premier asbestos survey company in Devon. We understand the dangers of asbestos and the need for proper management and removal. Asbestos is a hazardous material that can cause serious health problems if not handled properly. It is therefore important to have it properly assessed, managed, and removed before it becomes a health hazard.

Our company is committed to helping individuals protect their families and properties from the dangers of asbestos. We offer affordable, reliable, and efficient asbestos survey and removal services that meet the highest standards of quality and safety.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of carrying out a DIY asbestos survey in Devon. We will provide you with step-by-step instructions, advice, and tips on how to take samples, test, and manage asbestos in your property.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry from the 1950s until the mid-1980s. It was prized for its heat resistance, strength, and durability, but it was later discovered to be a dangerous carcinogen that can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other serious health problems.

Asbestos can be found in various building materials, including insulation, drywall, floor tiles, roof shingles, siding, and cement products. It is important to note that asbestos is only dangerous when it is disturbed and the fibers become airborne.

DIY Asbestos Survey Step by Step

Step One: Assess Risk

Before you begin the DIY survey, it is important to identify the areas of your property that may have asbestos-containing materials. Some of the areas you should pay attention to include:

• Insulation around pipes and ducts
• Wall or ceiling insulation
• Roofing and siding shingles
• Vinyl or linoleum flooring
• Cement roofing, wall panels or ceiling tiles
• Popcorn ceilings and acoustical tiles in ceilings.

Step Two: Gather Supplies

To carry out a DIY asbestos survey, you will need some supplies, including:

• Protective gear, such as gloves, a respirator, and protective clothing.
• A sampling kit, which includes sample bags, labels, and instructions for safe sample collection.
• A flashlight to help you see more clearly in dark corners.
• A damp cloth to clean surfaces before and after taking your samples.

Step Three: Take Samples

Taking samples for asbestos testing can be challenging, so it is important to take precautions to protect yourself and others in the area. It is recommended that you limit the number of samples you collect and avoid taking samples if you are not sure what you are doing. The following are some tips on how to take samples safely:

• Wear protective gear, including gloves, a respirator, and protective clothing
• Wet the area you intend to sample using a spray bottle or damp cloth to keep asbestos fibers from becoming airborne.
• Use a sharp blade, such as a scraper or utility knife, to carefully remove a small sample of the suspected material.
• Place the sample into the sample bag and label it carefully, including the date, location, and a brief description of the material.
• Seal the sample bag and store it in a safe place away from children and pets.

Step Four: Send Samples for Testing

Once you have collected your samples, you need to send them to a certified laboratory for testing. You can find a list of UKAS-accredited asbestos testing laboratories on the UKAS website. The laboratory will analyze your samples and provide you with a report that confirms the presence or absence of asbestos in the sample.

Step Five: Manage the Asbestos

If the laboratory confirms the presence of asbestos in your property, you need to manage it carefully to minimize the risk of exposure. The following are some tips on how to manage asbestos safely:

• Do not disturb the material or attempt to remove it yourself.
• Make sure the material is clearly labelled as containing asbestos to prevent accidental disturbance.
• Isolate the area containing asbestos, using barriers or signs to prevent access.
• Have a professional asbestos survey company evaluate the material and determine the best method for removal, encapsulation or management.

Advice and Tips

• Asbestos is a hazardous material, and it is important to take the necessary precautions when handling it. This includes wearing protective gear, avoiding creating dust or debris, and ensuring proper disposal of the material.
• DIY asbestos surveying can be difficult, and sampling kits may not be accurate or reliable. It is therefore important to use a certified asbestos survey company to provide you with proper advice and guidance.
• Asbestos handling is regulated and requires work and testing to be carried out safely. Ensure the company you select is equipped and qualified to carry out the survey or removal work accordingly.

Conclusion

Asbestos is a hazardous material that requires professional assessment, management, and removal to ensure the safety of your property and the health of your family. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we are fully equipped and qualified to provide you with the highest level of service at affordable rates.

If you suspect that your property may contain asbestos, don't hesitate to contact us on 01962 458066 or email at [email protected]. We offer a full range of services, including asbestos surveying, management, and removal to ensure your property is safe from this hazardous material.

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