Selecting the Right Asbestos Survey for Your Needs

What asbestos survey do i need?

Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACMs) were extensively utilized in the construction industry until their ban in 1999. Given that many buildings in the UK still harbor asbestos, a comprehensive asbestos risk assessment with the appropriate survey report is crucial. Choosing the right asbestos survey is vital for identifying potential asbestos hazards.

The duty holder, responsible for managing non-domestic building maintenance, must implement an asbestos management plan to prevent exposure. This plan relies on accurate information, specifically the asbestos assessment and survey report. Asbestos survey reports play a pivotal role in safeguarding workers from potential asbestos disturbances during maintenance, refurbishment, repair, or regular usage of buildings.

Types of Asbestos Surveys

Asbestos surveys come in three types:

1. Management Survey:
   • Identifies the presence and extent of suspect ACMs that could be disturbed during normal occupancy.
   • Non-intrusive but essential for any subsequent refurbishment works.
2. Refurbishment Survey:
   • Conducted before refurbishment work to locate and describe all ACMs in the targeted area.
   • Involves a fully intrusive inspection to access difficult-to-reach areas.
3. Demolition Survey:
   • Conducted before demolition work.
   • Focuses on areas scheduled for demolition without assessing ACM condition.

Surveyor Qualifications

Competency of the surveyor is paramount to ensure a reliable survey. The surveyor should possess one of two qualifications: RSPH Level 3 Award in Asbestos Surveying or BOHS P402. At Complete Asbestos Surveys, our staff holds BOHS P402 qualifications, boasting over 20 years of experience in asbestos work.

Key Elements in a Survey Report

A thorough survey report should include:

• Name of the surveyor.
• Executive summary.
• Asbestos register.
• Risk assessments and recommendations.
• Plans.
• Bulk sample analysis.

Clear and Accessible Reporting

Survey reports should be clear, understandable, and easily accessible for staff or clients who need to reference them. Caveats, if necessary, should be limited and agreed upon with the client, with documentation within the report.

Swift Turnaround with Electronic Software

Complete Asbestos Surveys employs electronic software, enabling us to deliver survey reports in as little as 48 hours. If you’re uncertain about the type of asbestos survey you need, our team can provide expert guidance. Choose Complete Asbestos Surveys for comprehensive, timely, and reliable asbestos surveys.

FAQ:

Q. What are the differences between Management, Refurbishment, and Demolition Surveys, and how do I choose the right one for my needs?

• Management Survey: Identifies suspect ACMs that could be disturbed during normal occupancy.
• Refurbishment Survey: Conducted before refurbishment work to locate and describe all ACMs in the targeted area.
• Demolition Survey: Conducted before demolition work, focusing on areas scheduled for demolition without assessing ACM condition.
• The choice depends on the purpose of the survey and the extent of disturbance expected in the building.

Q. How can I ensure that the surveyor conducting the asbestos survey is qualified and competent?

• Look for surveyors who hold qualifications such as the RSPH Level 3 Award in Asbestos Surveying or BOHS P402.
• Check the experience of the surveyor and the company they represent, ensuring they have sufficient expertise in asbestos work.

Q. What are the key elements in an asbestos survey report that I should pay attention to?

• Name of the surveyor.
• Executive summary.
• Asbestos register.
• Risk assessments and recommendations.
• Plans.
• Bulk sample analysis.
• Ensure the report is clear, understandable, and easily accessible for future reference, with any necessary caveats documented and agreed upon with the client.