Does My Refurbished Commercial Building Require an Asbestos Survey in Devon?

If you own or manage a commercial building that has undergone refurbishment recently, you're probably wondering if it requires an asbestos survey. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials until the late 1990s. It was commonly used because of its heat resistance, flexibility, and strength. However, it was later discovered that exposure to asbestos fibers can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other serious diseases.

In this article, we'll discuss the importance of asbestos surveys and whether your refurbished commercial building in Devon requires one. We'll also introduce our company, Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, and explain how we can help you manage any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) on your property.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that can be extracted from the ground. It's made up of strong, flexible fibers that can be used in a variety of ways. For example, asbestos was used in building materials such as insulation, roofing, and flooring. It was also used in shipbuilding, automobile manufacturing, and other industrial processes.

The problem with asbestos is that when it's disturbed, it releases tiny fibers into the air. These fibers can be inhaled and can lodge in the lungs, causing damage over time. Exposure to asbestos fibers can cause a number of serious illnesses, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Asbestos Surveys

An asbestos survey is a comprehensive inspection of a property or building to identify any materials that contain asbestos. The survey is typically conducted by a licensed asbestos surveyor who will take samples of suspected ACMs and send them to a laboratory for analysis. The surveyor will also look for any damaged or deteriorating materials that may release asbestos fibers into the air.

There are two main types of asbestos surveys: management surveys and refurbishment/demolition surveys. The type of survey you require will depend on the purpose of the survey and the condition of the building.

A management survey is a standard survey that is required for all non-domestic properties. This survey is designed to identify any ACMs that could be disturbed during normal occupancy or maintenance of the building. The surveyor will take samples of suspected ACMs and assess their condition. They will also provide a management plan that outlines how to manage the ACMs effectively.

A refurbishment/demolition survey is a more extensive survey that is required when a building is due to be refurbished, renovated, or demolished. This survey is designed to identify any ACMs that could be disturbed during the renovation or demolition process. The surveyor will take samples of suspected ACMs and assess their condition. They will also provide a refurbishment/demolition plan that outlines how to safely remove or encapsulate the ACMs before work begins.

Does My Refurbished Commercial Building Require an Asbestos Survey?

If you own or manage a refurbished commercial building in Devon, the answer is yes you probably require an asbestos survey. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 requires that all non-domestic properties have a management survey in place to identify any ACMs. This includes properties that have undergone refurbishment in the past.

If you're planning to renovate or demolish the building, you will require a refurbishment/demolition survey. This survey is essential to ensure the safety of workers during the renovation or demolition process. It's also a legal requirement.

Even if you're not planning any immediate renovations, it's important to have a management survey in place. This will help you manage any ACMs on the property effectively and avoid any accidental exposure to asbestos fibers.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon

If you're in need of an asbestos survey for your commercial building in Devon, Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon can help. We're a professional asbestos survey company with years of experience in managing ACMs on commercial properties. Our surveys are thorough, straightforward, and affordable, giving you the confidence to manage any asbestos materials on your property effectively.

Our surveys are conducted by licensed asbestos surveyors who have the expertise to identify any ACMs present in your building. We use the latest technology and equipment to ensure accurate results, and we always work to the highest standards of health and safety.

Once the survey is complete, we'll provide you with a detailed report that outlines any ACMs found on the property. We'll also provide you with a management plan that outlines how to manage the ACMs effectively. Our team of experts can also advise you on the best course of action if any ACMs require removal.

Managing Asbestos on Your Property

Managing ACMs on your property is essential to ensure the safety of your employees and visitors. If you suspect that ACMs may be present in your building, it's important to take action as soon as possible. Here are some steps you can take to manage any ACMs on your property:

• Get an Asbestos Survey: As we've discussed, an asbestos survey is essential to identify any ACMs on your property. Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon can help you with this.

• Take Action on the Survey Results: If the survey reveals that ACMs are present on your property, you'll need to take action. This might involve removing the materials, encapsulating them, or simply managing them effectively. Our team can help you decide on the best course of action.

• Train Your Staff: If your staff are likely to come into contact with ACMs, it's important to train them on how to do so safely. This might involve providing them with protective equipment or setting up specific procedures for managing the materials.

• Keep Records: It's important to keep records of any ACMs on your property and how they're being managed. This will help you keep track of any changes or new risks that arise over time.

Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Website

If you're looking for more information on managing asbestos on commercial properties, the HSE website is a great resource. The HSE is the government body responsible for overseeing health and safety in the workplace in the UK. Their website has a wealth of information on managing asbestos, including guidance on asbestos surveys, managing ACMs, and training employees.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you own or manage a refurbished commercial building in Devon, it's likely that you require an asbestos survey. Asbestos is a serious risk to the health and safety of employees and visitors, and it's essential to manage any ACMs on your property effectively. Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon can help you with this. Our professional surveys are comprehensive, straightforward, and affordable, giving you the confidence to manage any ACMs on your property effectively. Contact us today to find out more.