Asbestos is a hazardous material that can cause serious health risks. Due to this, it is important to be aware of its presence, and proper measures should be taken to avoid exposure to it. One of the best ways to identify and manage asbestos-containing materials is through asbestos surveys. In this blog, we will discuss the procedure, types, and benefits of asbestos survey.
Procedure of Asbestos Surveys
Asbestos surveys are conducted by licensed asbestos surveyors who use different methods to identify the presence of asbestos. One of the most commonly used techniques is the visual inspection of the building. This method involves assessing the condition of the building and identifying any materials that have a high potential of containing asbestos. If necessary, the surveyor may take samples of the materials for analysis. The analysis is done in a lab, where the material is examined under a microscope to confirm if it contains asbestos or not.
Types of Asbestos Surveys
There are two types of asbestos surveys: management survey and refurbishment/demolition survey. A management survey is done to identify whether there are any asbestos-containing materials present in the building, and if so, to monitor and manage them properly. A refurbishment/demolition survey is done before refurbishing or demolishing a building. This survey is more intrusive as it involves breaking through walls and floors to identify hidden materials that may contain asbestos.
Benefits of Asbestos Surveys
Asbestos surveys provide numerous benefits that help ensure safety against asbestos. One of the main benefits is identifying the presence of asbestos-containing materials and their location. This information is essential in making informed decisions regarding planning and managing the building. Moreover, regular asbestos surveys ensure that asbestos is detected early on, and steps can be taken to control, manage or remove it, ultimately minimizing the risk of exposure to it.
Another benefit of asbestos surveys is that they safeguard the health of individuals working on or living in the building. The presence of asbestos-containing materials can lead to serious health risks like lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. Regular asbestos surveys aid in managing any risks of asbestos exposure and guaranteeing the safety of the individuals within the building.
Lastly, asbestos surveys are essential in avoiding legal liabilities. In many countries, it is mandatory to conduct an asbestos survey before any refurbishing or demolition work. Failure to comply with the regulations may result in hefty financial penalties, legal action, or both.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, asbestos surveys are an essential measure for identifying and managing asbestos-containing materials. They not only ensure safety against asbestos exposure but also enable informed decisions concerning the building. Asbestos surveys provide different benefits; they help safeguard the health of individuals working or living in a building, prevent legal liabilities, and offer early detection of asbestos. Regular asbestos surveys aid in ensuring the safety of individuals and avoiding the dangers of asbestos-related illnesses. It is therefore highly recommended to conduct an asbestos survey regularly to ensure the safety of occupants and maintain compliance with the legal requirements.
