Should Asbestos Be Tested Yearly in Devon?

Asbestos is a harmful material that was widely used in construction and building materials in the past. Despite its hazardous nature, it was only banned in the UK in 1999, meaning that buildings constructed or renovated before then may still contain asbestos. Asbestos exposure can cause serious illnesses such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer, so it's important to manage the risk of exposure by testing and removing asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) from buildings.

Devon, a beautiful county in the South West of England, is no exception. Many buildings in this region are likely to contain asbestos, especially those constructed before 2000. Therefore, it's crucial to ask the question, Should asbestos be tested yearly in Devon?

The Role of Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we understand the importance of managing the risk of asbestos exposure. We are a professional asbestos testing and removal company based in Devon, serving customers across the county and beyond.

Our goal is to help you identify if there is any asbestos in your building and manage the risk of exposure. We offer comprehensive asbestos survey and management services, including sample testing, risk assessments, and safe removal of ACMs. Our team is qualified, experienced, and fully insured to carry out all types of asbestos work, ensuring that your building is safe and compliant with regulations.

If you suspect asbestos in your building, don't hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We offer competitive prices and high-quality services that meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Call us on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected] to book a survey today.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a highly hazardous mineral fibre that was widely used in construction and building materials from the 1950s to the 1980s. It was valued for its fire resistance, durability, and insulating properties, which made it a popular choice for roofs, walls, floors, pipes, and other building components.

Asbestos is divided into six types: chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite. Chrysotile, also known as white asbestos, is the most commonly used type and accounts for about 95% of all asbestos found in buildings. Depending on the type, asbestos fibres can be short, curly, or straight, and invisible to the naked eye.

When asbestos-containing materials are damaged, disturbed, or aged, they can release asbestos fibres into the air, which can be inhaled or swallowed by people working or living in the building. Asbestos fibres are so tiny that they can penetrate deep into the lungs and settle there, irritating and damaging the lung tissue over time.

What is an Asbestos Survey?

An asbestos survey is a thorough inspection of a building to identify any ACMs that may be present and assess their condition and risk of exposure. An asbestos survey is a legal requirement for all non-domestic buildings constructed before 2000, and for any building that is to be demolished or refurbished, as part of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

There are two types of asbestos survey: management survey and refurbishment/demolition survey. A management survey is designed to locate the presence and extent of any ACMs in a building that could be disturbed or damaged during normal occupation and use. A management survey involves taking representative samples of materials suspected to contain asbestos, but doesn't examine the inside of the building's structure.

A refurbishment/demolition survey is more comprehensive than a management survey and is carried out when major refurbishment or demolition work is planned. A refurbishment/demolition survey aims to locate all ACMs, including those concealed or hard to reach, as well as the nature and condition of the materials, so that they can be safely removed before work starts.

Why is Asbestos Management Important?

Asbestos management is the process of identifying, assessing, and controlling the risk of exposure to asbestos in buildings. Asbestos management is important because it helps to prevent or minimize the risk of asbestos-related diseases, such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer, which can take decades to emerge after exposure.

Asbestos management involves four steps:

1. Identifying the presence and location of ACMs in a building through an asbestos survey.

2. Assessing the condition and risk of exposure of ACMs, based on their type, location, and accessibility, as well as the likelihood and intensity of disturbance.

3. Implementing measures to control the risk of exposure, such as labeling, sealing, enclosing, encapsulating, or removing ACMs, depending on their condition and location, and the scope of the work to be done.

4. Monitoring and reviewing the effectiveness of the control measures, and updating the asbestos register and management plan as necessary.

Asbestos management should be carried out by qualified and competent persons who have sufficient knowledge, skills, and experience in dealing with asbestos. Asbestos management is not a one-time event but a continuous process that requires regular review and updating to reflect any changes in the building, the occupants, or the regulations.

How Can We Help You?

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we are here to assist you in every step of the asbestos management process. Whether you need an asbestos survey, risk assessment, management plan, or ACM removal, our team of experts can provide you with a cost-effective and reliable solution that meets your needs and protects your health.

We are fully licensed and accredited by the UKAS to carry out asbestos surveys and sample testing, using the latest equipment and techniques to ensure accuracy and efficiency. We also have extensive experience in managing ACMs in various types of buildings, from domestic properties to commercial buildings and industrial sites.

We understand that asbestos management can be daunting and complex, but we are here to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. We offer free advice, consultations, and quotations, with no obligation to buy. Our prices are transparent and competitive, with no hidden fees or charges.

Contact us today on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected] to arrange a survey or discuss your asbestos management needs. We are always happy to help you.