Should I Get An Asbestos Survey In Devon?

Asbestos is a dangerous substance that can cause serious health problems if inhaled. It was widely used in construction materials until the 1980s when it was finally banned in the UK. However, buildings constructed before the ban may still contain asbestos, which can pose a risk to anyone working or living in them. If you are considering buying, managing, or working in a property in Devon, it is important to know whether or not it contains asbestos. A professional asbestos survey can help you identify any potential risks and take appropriate action.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we provide asbestos surveys to properties throughout Devon and the South West of England. We understand that asbestos removal can be expensive and disruptive, which is why we offer affordable and flexible solutions to suit your needs. Our team of experienced surveyors use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that you get accurate and reliable results. Our goal is to help you stay safe and healthy while managing your property or undertaking works that could disturb asbestos-containing materials.

Asbestos what is it?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials because of its high tensile strength, heat resistance, and fire-retardant properties. It was commonly used in roofing, flooring, insulation, and other building materials until the 1980s when it was finally banned in the UK. However, any building constructed before the ban may still contain asbestos. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed or damaged, tiny fibres can be released into the air. These fibres can be inhaled and cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Do I need an asbestos survey?

If you are buying or managing a property in Devon, it is important to know whether or not it contains asbestos. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends that all non-domestic properties built before the year 2000 should have an asbestos survey carried out. This is because asbestos-containing materials were widely used in construction until the 1980s, and may still be present in older buildings. An asbestos survey can help you identify any potential risks and take appropriate action to manage or remove the asbestos.

What happens during an asbestos survey?

An asbestos survey involves a trained surveyor inspecting your property for any materials that may contain asbestos. The surveyor will take samples of any suspected materials and send them to a laboratory for testing. The samples will be analysed for the presence of asbestos fibres and the type of asbestos present. The surveyor will also record the location, condition, and asbestos levels of any materials found. Based on the results of the survey, the surveyor will provide you with a report detailing the extent of any asbestos-containing materials and recommendations for management or removal.

What if I find asbestos in my home?

If you find asbestos in your home, it is important to take immediate action to manage or remove it. If the asbestos is in good condition and is unlikely to be disturbed, it may be safer to leave it in place and monitor it for any changes. However, if the asbestos is damaged or is likely to be disturbed (e.g. during renovation works), it should be removed by a licensed asbestos removal contractor. Do not attempt to remove asbestos yourself, as this can be extremely dangerous. Always use a professional asbestos removal company to ensure that the removal is carried out safely and legally.

Asbestos and testing tradesmen

If you are employing builders or tradesmen to work on your property in Devon, it is essential to ensure that they are aware of any asbestos-containing materials present. Asbestos fibres can be released into the air when working on or near asbestos-containing materials. This can put workers and others on the site at risk of inhaling the fibres. Before any work commences, you should provide the tradesmen with a copy of the asbestos survey report and ensure that they are competent and trained to work with asbestos-containing materials. You should also ensure that they follow safe working practices and use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Conclusion

An asbestos survey is an essential tool for anyone buying or managing a property in Devon. It can help you identify any potential risks and take appropriate action to manage or remove any asbestos-containing materials present. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we offer affordable and flexible asbestos survey solutions to suit your needs. Our team of experienced surveyors use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that you get accurate and reliable results. Contact us today on 01962 458066 or email [email protected] to find out more about our services and how we can help you stay safe and healthy while managing your property.