When Is An Asbestos Refurbishment Survey Required In Devon?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in the construction and manufacturing industries in the UK. It was valued for its strength, durability, and fire-resistant properties, and was commonly used in insulation, flooring, and roofing materials. However, asbestos is highly hazardous to human health and can cause a range of serious, even fatal, diseases including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

Due to the dangers associated with asbestos, a number of health and safety regulations have been put in place to minimize the risk of exposure. One of the key regulations is the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012), which outlines the legal responsibilities of building owners, employers, and contractors in relation to asbestos management, removal, and surveying.

As a leading asbestos survey company in Devon, we at Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon have extensive experience in conducting asbestos surveys in both domestic and commercial buildings. One of the most common questions we receive from our clients is when is an asbestos refurbishment survey required in Devon?

In this article, we will explore the key factors that determine whether an asbestos refurbishment survey is required for a building in Devon, and how Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon can help you ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

What is an asbestos survey?

Before delving into the topic of when an asbestos refurbishment survey is required, it is important to define what an asbestos survey is. An asbestos survey is a comprehensive inspection of a building to identify any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that may be present. The survey involves a visual inspection of the building and the collection of samples for laboratory analysis.

There are two main types of asbestos surveys - management surveys and refurbishment/demolition surveys. A management survey is designed to identify any ACMs that may be present in a building and assess the level of risk they pose to occupants. A refurbishment/demolition survey, on the other hand, is required when a building is undergoing significant refurbishment or demolition works. The survey is more extensive than a management survey and is designed to identify all ACMs that may be disturbed during the renovation or demolition works.

When is an asbestos refurbishment survey required in Devon?

An asbestos refurbishment survey is required by law when a building is undergoing refurbishment or demolition works, as outlined in Regulation 5 of CAR 2012. The survey is necessary to identify any ACMs that may be present in the building and assess the level of risk they pose to the health of workers and members of the public who may come into contact with the materials.

The HSE recommends that a refurbishment/demolition survey is carried out as soon as possible before the renovation works begin to ensure that any ACMs are identified and safely removed before they can be disturbed. It is also important to note that a refurbishment/demolition survey is required even if a management survey has been conducted previously, as the requirements of each survey are different.

When a refurbishment/demolition survey is required, it must be carried out by a competent surveyor who has the necessary qualifications, training, and experience to conduct the survey safely and accurately. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, all of our surveyors are trained and certified to conduct both management and refurbishment/demolition surveys, ensuring that you receive a comprehensive and accurate report.

What are the consequences of not conducting an asbestos refurbishment survey?

Failing to conduct an asbestos refurbishment survey in Devon when one is required can have serious legal and health implications. Under CAR 2012, building owners, employers, and contractors have a legal duty to manage asbestos in their buildings and ensure that anyone who may be exposed to the material is protected from harm.

If a refurbishment/demolition survey is not carried out and asbestos-containing materials are disturbed during the renovation works, workers and members of the public may be exposed to hazardous asbestos fibres. Exposure to asbestos can cause a range of serious diseases, some of which can take years to develop.

From a legal perspective, failing to comply with the requirements of CAR 2012 can result in prosecution by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and heavy fines. Building owners and contractors can also be liable for damages if workers or members of the public are harmed by exposure to asbestos.

How Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon can help

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we understand the importance of ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations when it comes to asbestos management. We are a leading asbestos survey company in Devon and have extensive experience in conducting both management and refurbishment/demolition surveys.

Our team of qualified and experienced surveyors uses advanced equipment and techniques to identify any ACMs that may be present in your building. We also provide comprehensive reports detailing the location and condition of any identified ACMs, and advice on how to safely manage and remove the materials in line with current health and safety regulations.

In addition to asbestos surveys, we also provide asbestos removal services to ensure that all identified ACMs are safely and professionally removed from your building. Our team of asbestos removal experts uses the latest techniques and equipment to ensure that all asbestos materials are removed safely and without risk to human health.

If you are unsure whether an asbestos refurbishment survey is required for your building in Devon, or if you require any other asbestos-related services, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected]. We are always happy to provide advice and guidance on all aspects of asbestos management to ensure that you remain fully compliant with the law and protect the health of those who work or live in your premises.