What Does An Asbestos Survey Entail In Devon

If you own or are responsible for managing a building in Devon, it is important to be aware of the potential risks posed by asbestos. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in construction materials due to its heat resistance and durability. However, when asbestos is disturbed or damaged, it can release dangerous fibers into the air that can lead to serious health problems including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

To ensure the safety of building occupants and comply with relevant regulations, it is important to commission an asbestos survey. An asbestos survey will identify any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) present in a building and assess their condition. The survey will also provide recommendations for managing or removing asbestos if necessary.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we are a trusted asbestos survey company providing services throughout Devon and the South West of England. In this article, we will explain what an asbestos survey entails and why it is essential for the health and safety of your building's occupants.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has been widely used in construction materials for many years. It is heat-resistant, durable, and has excellent insulation properties. Asbestos was commonly used in a variety of building materials including insulation, roofing, flooring, and ceiling tiles.

While asbestos was once considered a miracle material, it has since been linked to a range of serious health problems. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can become lodged in the lungs and cause damage over time. This can lead to asbestos-related diseases including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

The use of asbestos in building materials was banned in the UK in 1999. However, many buildings constructed prior to this date may still contain asbestos. Therefore, it is vital to identify any ACMs present in a building and manage them appropriately.

What is an Asbestos Survey?

An asbestos survey is a thorough inspection of a building to identify any ACMs that may be present. The survey assesses the condition of any ACMs and determines whether they are likely to release fibers into the air.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has outlined two different types of surveys: a management survey and a refurbishment/demolition survey.

Management Survey

A management survey is designed to identify the presence, location, and condition of any ACMs in a building that could be disturbed during normal occupancy or maintenance. The survey is intended to provide information for managing asbestos-containing materials during regular activity within the building.

A management survey will usually involve inspecting accessible areas of a building to identify suspected ACMs. Samples of suspected materials will then be taken and analyzed in a laboratory to confirm whether or not they contain asbestos.

Refurbishment/Demolition Survey

A refurbishment/demolition survey is required before any refurbishment or demolition work takes place on a building. This survey is more intrusive than a management survey, as it involves destructive inspection techniques to gain access to areas that may contain asbestos.

This type of survey is designed to identify all ACMs that are likely to be disturbed during the refurbishment or demolition work. The survey will usually involve taking samples of suspected materials and analyzing them in a laboratory to confirm whether or not they contain asbestos.

Why is an Asbestos Survey Necessary?

Asbestos can pose a serious health risk when it is disturbed or damaged, as it can release dangerous fibers into the air. Inhalation of these fibers can lead to serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Therefore, it is essential to identify any ACMs present in a building and manage them appropriately. This is where an asbestos survey comes in.

An asbestos survey will identify any ACMs present in a building and assess their condition. The survey will also provide recommendations for managing or removing asbestos if necessary.

It is important to note that even if there is no plan to refurbish or demolish a building, a management survey should still be carried out. This is because ACMs can still pose a risk if they are disturbed during everyday activities such as maintenance or repairs.

What Does an Asbestos Survey Entail?

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, our asbestos survey process involves the following steps:

Step 1: Initial Consultation

The first step in the survey process is an initial consultation. This involves discussing your requirements and determining which type of survey is required. We will also provide you with a quote for the cost of the survey.

Step 2: Site Visit

Once the initial consultation has taken place, our surveyors will carry out a site visit. This will involve inspecting the building and identifying any areas that may contain ACMs. Our surveyors will take photographs and make detailed notes to ensure that all areas are thoroughly inspected.

Step 3: Sampling

If suspected ACMs are identified during the site visit, our surveyors will take samples of the materials. These samples will then be analyzed in a laboratory to determine whether or not they contain asbestos.

Step 4: Report

Once the survey has been completed, we will provide you with a detailed report. This report will include a summary of the survey findings, any recommendations for managing or removing asbestos, and a register of any ACMs present in the building.

Get in Touch

If you are in need of an asbestos survey in Devon or the South West of England, Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is here to help. Our team of experienced surveyors will provide you with a comprehensive report that will ensure the health and safety of your building's occupants.

To find out more about our asbestos survey services, or to arrange a consultation, please give us a call on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected].