How Many Long Dies A Asbestos Survey Last For In Devon

If you own a property in Devon, it's essential you understand the importance of asbestos surveys. Asbestos is a harmful substance that was widely used in construction until the 1980s, and can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and lung scarring when inhaled. Asbestos can be present in any building built before 2000, including homes, schools, hospitals, and offices. As such, it's essential you know when you need an asbestos survey, how long an asbestos survey takes, and why it's crucial to manage asbestos once it's been found. In this post, we'll explore everything you need to know about asbestos surveys in Devon, England.

Who Are Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon?

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a professional asbestos survey and removal company based in Devon, England. Our team of experienced asbestos surveyors can help you identify and manage any asbestos on your property, as well as providing safe and professional asbestos removal services. We understand that asbestos can be a worrying and confusing issue for property owners, which is why we provide a range of affordable and reliable services designed to meet your specific needs. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to book an appointment.

What is Asbestos Survey?

An asbestos survey is an inspection of a building to determine whether it contains asbestos, where it is, and what condition it's in. An asbestos survey is required by law if you own a building, and it's likely to be visited or occupied by people, for example, a household, or workplace. The surveyor will take detailed notes of the asbestos-containing materials in your property and take a few samples for further examination. The surveyor will create a report that identifies the presence and condition of any asbestos in your property.

Why is Asbestos Survey Required?

Asbestos was a popular building material until the 1980s, and it can still be found today in many homes and public buildings. The dangerous substance asbestos can cause serious health issues when inhaled, such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. As such, it's vital that any property suspected of containing asbestos undergoes an asbestos survey to establish where and how much asbestos is present. Asbestos surveys are a legal requirement and help ensure the safety of those who use the building.

How Long Does an Asbestos Survey Take?

The length of time an asbestos survey takes varies depending on the size and complexity of the building. A management survey usually takes around 1-2 hours, while a refurbishment or demolition survey can take several days or even weeks. If a property is suspected of having asbestos or has previously been identified as containing asbestos, a surveyor may need to take samples for analysis, which can take longer. In general, an asbestos survey takes less time than asbestos removal, which can take several days to a few weeks.

What Are the Different Types of Asbestos Surveys?

There are two main types of asbestos surveys: management surveys and refurbishment or demolition surveys.

Management Survey

A management survey is the type of asbestos survey you need if you own a property and want to know whether it contains any asbestos. This survey aims to identify the location, extent, and condition of any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in the building that could be disturbed during normal occupancy, maintenance, or installation of equipment. The surveyor will take samples of any suspected ACMs and have them analyzed in a laboratory. A management survey is often simple and non-intrusive, and it's designed to identify any asbestos present in the building that could pose a risk to occupants.

Refurbishment or Demolition Survey

A refurbishment or demolition survey is more intrusive than a management survey and is required before any major refurbishment or demolition works take place. This survey aims to locate and describe all the asbestos-containing materials in the building that could potentially be disturbed during the planned works. The surveyor will take samples of all suspected ACMs and analyze them in a laboratory. A refurbishment or demolition survey is mandatory for all buildings, except domestic properties, where there is a risk of asbestos exposure.

What Happens During an Asbestos Survey?

During an asbestos survey, the surveyor will visit the property and take detailed notes of the suspected asbestos-containing materials in the building. The surveyor will also take a few samples of these materials for laboratory analysis. The survey will include the following steps:

1. Visiting the property and examining all accessible areas.
2. Taking a few samples of suspected ACMs.
3. Analyzing the samples in a laboratory to confirm presence.
4. Creating an asbestos survey report that identifies the presence of asbestos.

What are the Suspected Building Materials?

Not all buildings contain asbestos, but any built before 2000 are potentially suspect. Some of the potential asbestos-containing materials found in buildings include:

• ACMs used in insulation of pipes, boilers, and ducts.
• ACMs used in ceiling and floor tiles.
• ACMs used in lagging around boilers, pipework, tanks, and ductwork.
• ACMs used in fireproofing materials.

Why Use Asbestos Surveyors?

If you believe your property may have asbestos, it's important to hire a certified asbestos surveyor to come and inspect your property. Doing this ensures you are not putting your health at risk by potentially inhaling asbestos fibers. Certified asbestos surveyors are trained in identifying, assessing and monitoring for asbestos, and they will be able to provide detailed reports and recommendations for how to adequately manage asbestos and its related hazards.

What Are ACMS Samples?

A sample is a small piece of material that the surveyor takes during the asbestos survey to confirm the presence of asbestos. The sample is taken in a safe, unobtrusive, and controlled manner as to minimize the release of asbestos fibers. Samples are typically sent to the lab and analyzed under a microscope, to identify whether there are any asbestos fibers present on the sample. If asbestos is present, the lab will provide information on how much asbestos is in the sample.

What is the General Survey?

A general survey is a term that describes the visual examination of a building to determine if it contains any ACMs. Unlike an asbestos survey, a general survey does not involve taking samples, requiring a more limited form of assessment that is faster and less intrusive, providing only an overview of the potential risk involved. General surveys are useful when a property owner just wants a quick overview of potential risks but doesn't need a full asbestos survey.

Asbestos Survey Management and Planning

If asbestos is found in your property, it's essential you manage it effectively to protect your family, employees, and visitors. Asbestos management requires regular checks and management, including personal protective equipment, warning signs, and training for those likely to come into contact with the material. If asbestos is in good condition and not being disturbed, there is no need for removal. Our team of experienced asbestos experts can help you assess the risks associated with asbestos-containing materials and develop a practical management plan that protects you and your staff.

Rest Assured with Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we understand the concerns of property owners about the potential risks of asbestos. Our team of experienced asbestos professionals can help you identify and manage all types of asbestos on your property, from management surveys to comprehensive asbestos removal services. We offer affordable, reliable, and safe asbestos removal and management services that keep you, your family, and your employees safe. Contact us today for more information and to book an appointment.

Conclusion

Asbestos surveys are essential in any building constructed before 2000. The duration of an asbestos survey varies depending on the size and complexity of the building. Asbestos surveys are needed to identify asbestos and reduce the potential risks associated with it. If asbestos is found in the survey, it's essential that asbestos management is undertaken to protect those in contact with the material. Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is your reliable partner when it comes to asbestos survey and management services in Devon, England. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to book an appointment.