How Often Do I Have To Do An Asbestos Survey In Devon?

Asbestos is a dangerous material that was commonly used in building materials before the 1980s. Once hailed for its fire-resistant qualities, it has since been found to cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other illnesses. If you own a property in Devon or the South West of England, it is important to have it regularly surveyed to identify if there is any asbestos present.

In this article, we'll discuss the frequency of asbestos surveys and the importance of having an up-to-date asbestos register for your property. We'll also introduce our company, Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, and our services for safe and efficient asbestos removal.

What is an Asbestos Survey?

An asbestos survey is a process of identifying any asbestos within a building or property. There are two types of surveys: Management Surveys and Refurbishment or Demolition (R&D) Surveys.

A Management Survey is a regular inspection of the property to determine the presence and condition of any asbestos materials. It is required to be carried out on any commercial property at least once every two years or during any change in occupancy or building use. The survey allows the property owner to maintain a register of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) and assess any risks they may pose.

A Refurbishment or Demolition Survey is a more intrusive inspection that is required before any building work takes place. The survey identifies any ACMs that may be disturbed during the planned work and outlines the necessary steps to ensure safe removal.

Asbestos in Devon

Devon is a county in the South West of England known for its rolling hills, pristine coastlines, and picturesque villages. It is also a county with a long history of industry, which included the use of asbestos in buildings.

Asbestos was commonly used in buildings built between the 1950s and 1980s for insulation, fireproofing, and soundproofing purposes. The South West of England has a higher rate of mesothelioma deaths than any other region in the UK, which highlights the importance of having an up-to-date asbestos register for your property.

Why Do I Need An Asbestos Register?

Having an asbestos register is a legal requirement for non-domestic properties built before the year 2000. An up-to-date register ensures that any workers or occupants of the building are not put at risk of exposure to asbestos fibres.

The register should be reviewed regularly and updated after any new surveys or changes to the property. It should include details about the location, type, and condition of any ACMs. This information ensures that anyone carrying out work on the property knows exactly where asbestos is present and can take the necessary precautions to avoid disturbing it.

When Do I Need to Update My Asbestos Register?

A Management Survey should be carried out every two years or during any change in occupancy or building use. If a survey identifies the presence of ACMs, they must be documented in the asbestos register. The register should then be updated whenever there are any changes to the materials or their condition.

Additionally, if you are planning any refurbishment or demolition works, you will need to carry out a Refurbishment or Demolition Survey before any work begins. This survey will identify any ACMs that may be disturbed and outline the necessary steps to ensure their safe removal. The findings will need to be incorporated into the asbestos register.

Choosing a Asbestos Survey Company in Devon

When choosing an asbestos survey company in Devon, it is essential to choose a reliable and experienced provider. Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a trusted and reputable company that has been providing asbestos removal and survey services since 2005.

Our qualified and experienced surveyors have the knowledge and expertise to carry out both Management and R&D Surveys effectively. We use the latest technology and techniques to identify any ACMs quickly, efficiently, and safely. Our service ensures minimal disruption to the property and its occupants while providing accurate and reliable results.

Asbestos Management Plan

If ACMs are identified during a Management Survey, they should be recorded in an asbestos register and an asbestos management plan created. The plan is a document that outlines the steps to be taken to ensure that the ACMs are managed safely and effectively.

The plan should include details about the location, type, and condition of the ACMs, as well as any actions to be taken to manage them. It should also include details about any monitoring or re-inspection required over time.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon can help you create your asbestos management plan, ensuring your property remains safe and compliant with current regulations.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a specialist asbestos removal and survey company based in the South West of England. We provide a range of services, including Management Surveys, R&D Surveys, and asbestos removal.

We are a fully licensed and accredited company with over 15 years of experience. Our dedication to customer satisfaction and efficiency makes us the perfect choice for any asbestos-related project.

We adhere to all relevant regulations and guidelines and use only the latest technology and equipment to ensure that asbestos is efficiently and safely removed from your property.

Conclusion

In summary, if you own a property in Devon or the South West of England, it is essential to have an up-to-date asbestos register and carry out regular asbestos surveys. The frequency of surveys will depend on the type of survey and the age and use of the property.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a reliable and experienced company that can help you manage the presence of asbestos on your property. Our affordable and efficient services ensure that your property remains safe and compliant with current regulations. Contact us today at 01962 458066 or via email at [email protected] to discuss your asbestos-related requirements.