Who Is Responsible For An Asbestos Survey In Devon?

Asbestos is a dangerous substance that can cause serious health problems if it is not properly managed or removed. That is why it is essential to conduct an asbestos survey in any building that was constructed before the year 2000. In Devon, it is the duty holder, whether a domestic or non-domestic premises, who is responsible for conducting an asbestos survey.

In this landing page, we will look at the importance of conducting asbestos surveys, the role of the duty holder in managing asbestos, the regulations surrounding asbestos surveys, and how Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon can help with your asbestos survey needs.

Asbestos and its Dangers

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials until it was discovered that it can cause serious health problems, such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. Asbestos was widely used because of its heat resistance, strength, and durability, which makes it an ideal material for construction purposes.

However, asbestos can release fibres into the air that can be inhaled, which can cause serious health risks. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) states that asbestos kills around 5,000 workers in the UK each year, which is a staggering statistic. This is why it is important to manage and remove asbestos in a safe and responsible manner.

The Importance of Conducting an Asbestos Survey

The first step in managing asbestos is conducting an asbestos survey. This will help identify any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) present in the building, which can help the duty holder manage or remove the asbestos in a safe and responsible manner.

An asbestos survey involves inspecting the building and taking samples of any materials suspected of containing asbestos. The samples are then analysed in a laboratory to confirm whether asbestos is present or not.

The duty holder must ensure that an asbestos survey is conducted by a competent person who has the necessary knowledge, training, and experience to carry out the survey safely and competently.

The Role of the Duty Holder in Managing Asbestos

The duty holder is responsible for managing asbestos on their premises, whether it is a domestic or non-domestic building. The duty holder can be the owner, occupier, or anyone who has control over the management of the building.

The duty holder must manage any ACMs present on the premises and keep an up-to-date register of the location and condition of the asbestos. The register must be made available to anyone who carries out work on the building and to emergency services if necessary.

The duty holder must also ensure that anyone who works on the building is aware of the location of the asbestos and the risks associated with working with asbestos.

Regulations Surrounding Asbestos Surveys

There are several regulations in place to ensure that asbestos surveys are conducted safely and competently. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 places a duty on the duty holder to manage asbestos in non-domestic buildings and common areas of domestic buildings.

The duty holder must conduct an asbestos survey if they suspect that asbestos may be present on their premises. They must also ensure that any ACMs are managed or removed safely and competently.

If the duty holder fails to comply with the regulations, they may face enforcement action, which can include fines or even imprisonment.

How Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon Can Help

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we are experts in conducting asbestos surveys and can help the duty holder manage and remove any ACMs present on their premises.

Our team of qualified and experienced surveyors can conduct surveys in both domestic and non-domestic buildings in Devon and throughout the South West of England. We use the latest equipment and techniques to ensure that our surveys are conducted safely and competently.

We can help the duty holder manage any ACMs present on their premises, whether it is through encapsulation or removal. We use a range of methods to ensure that the asbestos is safely and responsibly managed or removed.

Contact us today on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected] to discuss your asbestos survey needs. You can also visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-devon.co.uk for more information.