Asbestos was once hailed as a miracle material, lauded for its heat resistance, strength and insulating properties. It was widely used in construction during the 20th century. However, by the late 1970s, it became evident that asbestos posed serious health risks. Today, it is recognized as a hazardous substance linked to severe illnesses such as mesothelioma and lung cancer. Thus, managing properties built during the era of widespread asbestos use requires careful attention to ensure safety.
Certified asbestos surveys are an essential foundation for safe property management. They involve comprehensive inspections conducted by trained professionals to identify any presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) within a building. The survey results provide valuable information about the location, condition and extent of any ACMs present.
The primary purpose of certified asbestos testing near me surveys is to minimize the risk of exposure to occupants or anyone who might disturb these materials unknowingly during renovation or demolition work. These surveys play a crucial role in creating an effective plan for managing ACMs safely.
There are different types of asbestos surveys tailored to cater various circumstances and requirements. A Management Asbestos Survey aims at identifying ACMs that could be disturbed or damaged during regular occupancy while providing guidance on maintaining them safely in situ if possible. On the other hand, Refurbishment and Demolition Surveys are more intrusive and aim at locating all ACMs before refurbishment work or complete demolition takes place.
These certified surveys must be carried out by competent surveyors who have received appropriate training accredited by professional bodies like The British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS). This ensures that they have up-to-date knowledge about where asbestos may be hidden within buildings’ fabric and understand how best to handle it without causing unnecessary risk.
Once completed, an Asbestos Register is produced outlining all identified ACMs’ details including their locations, conditions along with photographs for easy identification later on if necessary. This register forms part of an overall Asbestos Management Plan, which outlines steps to manage the identified risk effectively.
The importance of certified asbestos surveys cannot be overstated. They provide a foundation upon which safe property management can be built, ensuring that building owners comply with health and safety regulations while protecting occupants from potential harm. Despite asbestos being banned in many countries, its legacy remains in countless buildings worldwide. Therefore, it is crucial for those responsible for property management to understand the risks associated with asbestos and take appropriate steps to mitigate them.
In conclusion, certified asbestos surveys are not just a legal requirement but also an ethical responsibility towards safeguarding public health. By identifying and managing ACMs properly, we can ensure safer environments for everyone while respecting our historical architectural heritage constructed during the age of widespread asbestos use.
Supernova Asbestos Surveys
Hampstead House, 176 Finchley Road, London, NW3 6BT
0204 586 0680