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Asbestos Surveys
The Law
In the UK, asbestos surveys are a legal requirement for non-domestic premises built before 2000, aiming to protect occupants and workers from the dangerous health effects of asbestos exposure. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 mandates the identification and management of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in these buildings. There are two types of asbestos surveys: Management Surveys for ongoing management of ACMs and Refurbishment or Demolition Surveys for situations where ACMs may be disturbed. These regulations ensure that dutyholders take appropriate measures to prevent harm, emphasising the importance of compliance for the safety and well-being of all involved.
Asbestos Surveys: What is it?
An asbestos survey is a crucial process that aims to locate and identify asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) within a building, property, or structure. Often a legal requirement, this survey helps establish the type and quantity of asbestos materials present and their location. The purpose of an asbestos survey is to aid in managing asbestos effectively, as it poses a significant health risk when disturbed. There are two main types of asbestos surveys: a Management Asbestos Survey, primarily for properties where asbestos is present but there are no plans for removal, and a Refurbishment and Demolition Asbestos Survey, required when materials are disturbed during construction work. These surveys ensure the safety and well-being of occupants and workers by providing the necessary information to manage and mitigate the risks associated with asbestos exposure.
The Facts for Professionals Asbestos in commercial buildings
Why is asbestos dangerous?
Asbestos, once widely used in construction due to its heat and corrosion resistance, can lead to serious health issues when its fibers are inhaled. These fibers can cause various cancers, particularly affecting the lungs and chest lining. Only when disturbed and the fibers are released into the air does asbestos pose a risk to health. In the UK alone, past exposure to asbestos still claims around 4,000 lives annually.
Who is at risk?
Anyone who uses the premises where asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are present can be at risk if the materials have deteriorated or been damaged, releasing fibres into the air. Contractors who perform work that involves drilling, sawing, or cutting into these materials are particularly vulnerable.
Who has the duty to manage asbestos?
The duty holder, either the owner or the person responsible for the maintenance and repair of the premises, is legally obligated to manage the risk of asbestos. This includes identifying the presence of asbestos, keeping records of its location and condition, assessing the risk, planning to manage the risk, implementing the plan, and reviewing it periodically.
How do you comply with your duty?
To comply with your duty, you must first determine if asbestos is present in the building. Buildings constructed or refurbished before 1 January 2000 are likely to contain asbestos. An Asbestos Management Survey, which involves a visual inspection and sampling of suspected asbestos, is the most common type of survey. A more detailed Asbestos Refurbishment/Demolition Survey is required if construction or demolition activities are planned.
What if asbestos is present?
The condition and potential risk of the asbestos must be evaluated. If the material is in poor condition, it must be sealed, enclosed, or removed by a licensed contractor.
Asbestos left in place
An asbestos register should be prepared and kept available at the premises, clearly recording where the asbestos is and its condition. Asbestos should be clearly labeled with a warning sign. All contractors who carry out work on the premises should be made aware of the presence of asbestos. A permit-to-work system is an effective way to ensure this.
An asbestos register should be prepared and kept available at the premises, clearly recording where the asbestos is and its condition. Asbestos should be clearly labeled with a warning sign. All contractors who carry out work on the premises should be made aware of the presence of asbestos. A permit-to-work system is an effective way to ensure this.
Regular monitoring and review
The asbestos management plan must be regularly reviewed to ensure that asbestos left in the building is not deteriorating. Any asbestos should be inspected every 6-12 months, with its condition documented.