How Is An Asbestos Survey Carried Out In Devon?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials from the early 1900s to the late 1980s. It was prized for its resistance to heat, fire, and chemical erosion, and was used in everything from insulation to ceiling tiles. However, it was later discovered that exposure to asbestos fibres can lead to severe respiratory problems, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. As a result, asbestos removal and management became a vital part of building maintenance and refurbishment in the UK, and especially in Devon, South West England.

In Devon, many households and businesses still rely on buildings that contain asbestos materials, which means that there is a constant risk of exposure to asbestos fibres. To avoid these risks, it is essential to carry out an asbestos survey on the premises. An asbestos survey is a detailed inspection of a building and its materials to determine the extent and type of asbestos present. The survey is conducted by a trained and qualified surveyor, who will assess the condition of the building, identify the areas that contain asbestos, and recommend strategies for management, removal or remediation.

Why Is Asbestos Survey Important?

An asbestos survey is an important step in ensuring the safety of residents, employees, and visitors to premises that contain asbestos. Asbestos fibres are dangerous if inhaled, and they can cause serious health problems over time, even with low levels of exposure. An asbestos survey is needed to accurately understand the risks of exposure and to identify the best methods of safeguarding people.

The survey is particularly important for businesses who have a legal responsibility to manage the risks of asbestos exposure in their premises. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 requires property owners and duty holders (e.g. employers) to identify, assess and manage asbestos-containing materials. In this context, an asbestos survey is a legal obligation and failure to comply carries significant penalties.

Types of Asbestos Surveys

There are two types of asbestos survey, the Management Survey and the Demolition/Refurbishment Survey.

Management Survey - This type of survey is used to locate, as far as reasonably practicable, the presence, type, extent, and condition of any suspect asbestos-containing materials in a property. The survey usually involves a visual inspection of the accessible parts of the property, and the sampling and analysis of any suspected materials.

Demolition / Refurbishment Survey - This type of survey is more intrusive and involved in making sure that all asbestos-containing materials are found before major refurbishment work takes place, repairs or before demolition. This type of survey is more intrusive, and will usually require access to all parts of the building, including those that may be difficult to reach.

How Is An Asbestos Survey Carried Out?

Asbestos surveys in Devon are undertaken by professional asbestos survey companies like Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon. Our team of surveyors are fully trained and experienced in carrying out both types of asbestos surveys, and we always apply the latest safety and regulatory standards.

The following are the standard steps involved in an asbestos survey:

Step 1: Pre-survey Preparation

Before the survey is carried out, we ensure that the building and any areas to be inspected are safe and accessible. We may arrange for the isolation or shutdown of utilities (e.g. water, electricity, heating), depending on the nature of the survey.

Step 2: Initial Building Assessment

Our surveyors will carry out a visual inspection of the accessible parts of the property to evaluate the condition of the building and identify any potential hazards. This is followed by a review of any available records or information relating to the building, such as building plans, building logs or previous asbestos surveys.

Step 3: Sampling and Analysis

The surveyors will then take samples of materials suspected to contain asbestos, in accordance with British Standards, from the areas previously identified. Our experienced surveyors understand how to take samples safely and without causing any further damage or disturbance to the materials in question. These samples are then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Analysis Process

At the laboratory, the materials are subjected to microscopic analysis, to determine if they contain asbestos fibres, and if so, the type and quantity of asbestos present. When we receive the results from the laboratory, we assess them against guidelines by the Health and Safety Executive, the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, and other relevant legislation.

Step 4: Report and Recommendations

Having received the laboratory results, the surveyor will present you with a detailed report that identifies the location, type, and condition of asbestos-containing materials, as well as recommendations for managing, removing or encapsulating the asbestos. The report also includes a clear risk assessment and advice on the urgency of any required actions together with a clear management plan.

Why Work With Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon we are committed to delivering excellent asbestos survey services throughout Devon. Our highly trained and qualified team of specialists boast years of experience in asbestos surveying and are well-versed with the latest regulations and guidelines.

Our services are reliable, accurate, efficient and most importantly, affordable. We believe that everyone should have access to the best asbestos services available without breaking the bank. That is why our prices match some of the most competitive in the market. We take pride in staying on the cutting edge of industry standards and keeping to the laws regarding asbestos material in property management.

Our team uses up-to-date monitoring technology and equipment that ensures quality and precision in every step of the process. By choosing Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, you get a reliable partner in managing all asbestos-related issues and concerns in your business or property.

For further advice on asbestos survey or to get a quote, get in touch with us today! We are always available to take your call on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected].