Who Is Responsible For Asbestos Surveys In Devon?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once used extensively in building materials due to its resistance to heat, fire, and electricity. It was commonly used in the construction industry up until the 1980s when its dangers were discovered. Asbestos exposure has been linked to several serious health conditions, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. As a result, asbestos surveys are now mandatory for all non-domestic properties built before the year 2000 and are essential for ensuring the safety of the occupants of the building.

If you are a property owner, landlord or manager in Devon, you need to be aware of asbestos regulation and the obligation to manage asbestos on your premises. Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a local asbestos survey company that can provide expert advice and assistance in managing asbestos in your property.

Who Are Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon?

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon offers comprehensive asbestos services in Devon and the South West of England. Our team of qualified experts has extensive experience in providing asbestos surveys, sampling, and analysis for a range of clients in different sectors, including commercial, industrial, and domestic.

We understand that asbestos management can seem daunting, and the regulations can be complex. Our goal is to make the process as straightforward and hassle-free as possible for our clients. We offer a range of services that are tailored to each client's specific needs, including asbestos surveys, management plans, removals, and training.

Asbestos Surveys

Asbestos surveys are a legal requirement for all non-domestic properties built before the year 2000. The duty to manage asbestos applies to the owners and managers of such properties, and it includes the obligation to identify and assess the presence and condition of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) on the premises.

An asbestos survey should be carried out by a qualified asbestos surveyor who has the appropriate training, knowledge, and experience in asbestos identification and management. Asbestos surveys aim to establish if asbestos is present, what type of asbestos it is, where it is in the building, and the condition it is in.

Domestic Properties

While there is no legal duty to manage asbestos in domestic properties, it is still important to be aware of the risks associated with asbestos exposure. Domestic properties built before 2000 may contain ACMs, particularly in areas such as roofing, flooring, and insulation.

If you are planning on carrying out any renovations or maintenance work in your home, it is worth considering an asbestos survey. The survey will identify any ACMs present in your property and help you to ensure that any work carried out is done safely.

Duty to Manage Asbestos

The duty to manage asbestos is a legal requirement under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. It applies to all non-domestic properties built before the year 2000, including commercial, industrial, and public buildings. The duty to manage asbestos places the obligation on the owner, landlord or manager of a non-domestic property to take all reasonably practicable steps to manage the risk of asbestos exposure to anyone who may come into contact with it.

The first step in fulfilling the duty to manage asbestos is to carry out an asbestos survey. The survey will help to identify the presence and condition of asbestos within the property. Based on the results of the survey, an asbestos management plan should be developed and implemented.

The asbestos management plan should include details of the location and condition of any ACMs, the measures in place to manage the risk of exposure, and details of any training provided to employees or contractors who may come into contact with asbestos.

Non-Domestic Property Owners

As the owner of a non-domestic property, it is your responsibility to ensure that an asbestos survey is carried out, and an asbestos management plan is in place. It is also your obligation to review and update the management plan regularly.

If you are planning on carrying out any works on the property, it is essential to ensure that the asbestos management plan is updated accordingly. Any contractors carrying out work on the property should be made aware of the presence of asbestos and its location.

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2000

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 replaced the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2006. The 2000 regulations placed a duty on employers to manage the risk of asbestos in the workplace.

Under the 2000 regulations, employers who were responsible for non-domestic properties built before the year 2000 were required to carry out an asbestos survey. The survey had to be done by a qualified and competent person, and the results had to be recorded and kept on file.

Employers were also required to ensure that any employees likely to come into contact with asbestos were adequately trained and provided with information on the risks associated with asbestos.

Non-Domestic Properties Built After the Year 2000

Non-domestic properties built after the year 2000 are unlikely to contain asbestos. However, it is still essential to ensure that an asbestos survey is carried out before any work is carried out on the building.

If ACMs are identified during the survey, they should be managed in line with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. The asbestos management plan should be regularly reviewed and updated as necessary.

Safe Management of Asbestos

The safe management of asbestos is crucial for ensuring the safety of the occupants of a building. ACMs that are in good condition and are unlikely to be damaged or disturbed pose a low risk of exposure to asbestos fibres.

However, any ACMs that are damaged or deteriorating can release asbestos fibres into the air, which can be inhaled and cause serious health problems. It is essential to take all necessary precautions to prevent damage or disturbance to ACMs.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we are committed to providing a reliable and professional service to all our clients. We have the expertise and experience necessary to help you manage asbestos in your property safely.

Our services include asbestos surveys, management plans, and removal of ACMs. We offer competitive prices and can provide you with all the information you need to manage asbestos on your premises safely.

Conclusion

Asbestos is a dangerous substance that poses a significant health risk if not managed correctly. If you are a property owner, landlord, or manager in Devon, it is essential to understand the obligations and regulations related to asbestos management.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a local asbestos survey company that can provide you with all the guidance and support you need to manage asbestos safely. Contact us today on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected] to discuss your asbestos survey requirements. All the details you need are available online at affordable-asbestos-removal-devon.co.uk.