What is an Asbestos Management Survey?
An Asbestos Management Survey is an assessment of a building’s potential asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that could be disturbed or damaged during normal occupancy or maintenance . It is important to have an asbestos management survey carried out by a qualified surveyor to ensure the safety of the building’s occupants and the general public.
Why is an Asbestos Management Survey required?
An asbestos management survey is required to ensure the safety of the building’s occupants and the general public. Asbestos fibres can cause lung cancer and other serious respiratory diseases and a survey can help identify any potential sources of exposure. It is also required by law to have an asbestos management plan in place for commercial properties.
What will be checked during an Asbestos Management Survey?
During an asbestos management survey, the following will be checked:
The surveyor will visually inspect the building’s structure fixtures, and fittings to identify any potential ACMs.
Samples of suspected ACMs may be taken and sent for laboratory analysis to confirm the presence of asbestos.
The condition and risk of identified ACMs will be assessed to determine the appropriate management plan.
A report will be provided, detailing the survey findings and any recommended actions to manage the identified ACMs.
Asbestos Management Survey Checklist for Property Owners and Tenants:
To ensure an effective and efficient asbestos management survey by our qualified surveyors it is important to prepare in advance. Here are some key points to note before the arrival of the surveyor:
- Provide the surveyor with information on the building’s age, history and any previous asbestos surveys or removal work that has been carried out
- Ensure that the surveyor has access to all areas of the building, including basements, lofts and crawl spaces
- Make sure that all areas are well lit and free from obstruction
- Inform the surveyor of any areas where access may be restricted or hazardous
- Provide the surveyor with information on any planned or recent refurbishment or maintenance work that has been carried out in the building
- Inform the surveyor of any known or suspected ACMs in the building
- Provide the surveyor with a list of any areas of concern such as damaged or deteriorating materials
- Make sure that all occupants of the building are aware of the survey and have been informed of any precautions that they may need to take
- Follow any instructions provided by the surveyor to ensure the safety of the building’s occupants and the general public.
It is important to note that an asbestos management survey is not a removal or remediation service but rather an assessment to determine the appropriate management plan for identified ACMs