Asbestos surveys are crucial for ensuring safety in buildings, particularly in areas such as Gosport, Portsmouth, Southampton, Chichester, Winchester, and Fareham where older structures may contain asbestos. In the UK, there are primarily two types of asbestos surveys recognized under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, along with a special kind of reinspection survey.
1. Management Asbestos Survey
The Management Asbestos Survey is a fundamental requirement for maintaining safety in non-domestic properties. This survey:
Purpose: It aims to manage asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) during normal occupation and use of a building.
Process: Generally involves visual inspection, with minimal intrusive work and material sampling where appropriate.
Implementation: Most commercial or multi-tenancy properties require this survey to ensure safe management of any present ACMs and prevent accidental disturbance.​
2. Refurbishment/Demolition Asbestos Survey
This survey is necessary prior to any major refurbishment, remedial works, or demolition:
Purpose: Identifies ACMs before any structural work begins, ensuring that all asbestos is removed or managed safely prior to and during the work.
Process: This survey is more intrusive and involves destructive inspection to access all areas where ACMs might be present.
Requirements: It must be conducted by a qualified asbestos surveyor, and the area should be vacated during the survey
Special Mention: Reinspection Asbestos Survey
Purpose: This survey relates to the management aspects of the Control of Asbestos Regulations CAR 2012, ensuring regular checks of ACMs to monitor their condition and take necessary actions if their state deteriorates or changes.
Importance and Usage of Asbestos Surveys
Compliance: Conducting these surveys is essential for compliance with UK regulations and for the safety of occupants and workers in buildings.
Management Plan: Results from these surveys aid in developing an effective asbestos management plan, crucial for minimizing asbestos exposure risks.
Legal Obligation: For properties built before 2000, especially in the mentioned locations (Gosport, Portsmouth, etc.), it is a legal requirement to conduct these surveys to identify and manage any asbestos present.
Selecting a Competent Surveyor For Asbestos Survey
The competency and qualification of the surveyor are critical. They must have adequate training, qualifications, and experience. The UK's Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends using accredited surveying organisations such as us at Shelter Environmental.
Conclusion to Types of Asbestos Surveys UK
In summary, understanding, and conducting the correct type of asbestos survey is crucial for the safety and legal compliance of buildings, especially in older constructions in areas like Gosport, Portsmouth, Southampton, Chichester, Winchester, and Fareham. The Management Asbestos Survey and the Refurbishment/Demolition Asbestos Survey are the key types mandated by UK regulations, with reinspection surveys playing a supportive role in ongoing management. It's essential to engage qualified and competent professionals for conducting these surveys to ensure accuracy and compliance.