Does My Refurbished Commercial Building Require An Asbestos Survey In Sussex?

Refurbishing a commercial building can be a complex undertaking. With numerous challenges to consider, ensuring the work is carried out safely and within the legal framework can be a significant concern for building owners and managers. One area of particular importance is identifying and removing asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).

Asbestos is a naturally occurring material that was widely used in the construction industry for insulation, fireproofing, and soundproofing. However, it is now known to cause a range of respiratory diseases, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. In light of this, the UK government has passed regulations that require building owners and managers to take steps to manage any ACMs within their property.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we are a leading asbestos survey company in Sussex, offering comprehensive asbestos surveys to commercial and industrial premises across the South East of England. In this guide, we will explore the different types of asbestos surveys available and whether your refurbished commercial building requires an asbestos survey in Sussex.

What are Asbestos Surveys?

Asbestos surveys are carried out to identify the presence of ACMs within a building. There are two main types of asbestos surveys: management surveys and refurbishment/demolition surveys.

Management Surveys

Management surveys are intended to locate and identify the presence of ACMs within a building that will remain in situ and is reasonably accessible. The survey is designed to provide sufficient information for a risk assessment to be carried out, and for an asbestos management plan to be developed. The survey does not involve the collection of samples; instead, it is a visual inspection that addresses the management of ACMs within the building.

Refurbishment/Demolition Surveys

Refurbishment/demolition surveys are carried out to identify the presence of ACMs within a building that are likely to be disturbed by the proposed work. The survey is more intrusive than a management survey and involves the collection of samples for analysis. The survey provides sufficient information for a risk assessment to be carried out and for an appropriate asbestos removal strategy to be developed.

What are Asbestos-Containing Materials?

Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are products and materials that contain asbestos. ACMs were widely used in the construction industry between the 1950s and the 1980s. They were used for insulation, fireproofing, and soundproofing in a range of building products, including ceiling tiles, wall insulation, and roofing materials.

ACMs are safe if they are in good condition and not in danger of being damaged or disturbed. However, if they become damaged or disturbed, the asbestos fibres can become airborne, and when inhaled, can cause serious respiratory diseases.

Does My Refurbished Commercial Building Require an Asbestos Survey in Sussex?

If you are refurbishing or demolishing a commercial building in Sussex that was constructed before 2000, you are required by law to conduct an asbestos survey. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR) stipulates that all non-domestic premises must have an asbestos survey carried out.

Failing to undertake an asbestos survey can lead to legal action and fines. Furthermore, failure to manage ACMs appropriately can result in the harmful release of asbestos fibres into the air, which can lead to the development of serious health problems.

How to Arrange an Asbestos Survey in Sussex

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we provide a straightforward and affordable service for commercial and industrial property owners in Sussex. Our expert team of surveyors will carry out a thorough inspection of your property, taking samples for analysis where necessary.

Our management survey covers the following areas:

• Location of any ACMs within the building or structure.
• The condition of the ACMs and any risk of damage or disturbance.
• The type of ACM and the extent of the damage.
• The likelihood of future damage or disturbance.
• A risk assessment and management plan for ACMs within the building.

Our refurbishment/demolition survey includes:

• Locating and identifying all ACMs within the building or structure that will be affected by the proposed work.
• The type of ACM and the extent of the damage.
• The condition of the ACMs and any risk of damage or disturbance caused by the proposed work.
• The method of removal for any ACMs that need to be removed.
• A risk assessment and asbestos removal strategy.

Managing Asbestos

If we identify the presence of ACMs in your Sussex property, we can provide advice and assistance on managing asbestos safely. Recent research shows that asbestos-related diseases are responsible for up to 5,000 deaths in the UK each year. Asbestos is a serious health risk, and it is essential that it is managed and removed safely.

The HSE website provides comprehensive information on managing asbestos in the workplace. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we can provide expert guidance and support on managing asbestos safely.

Conclusion

If you are refurbishing or demolishing a commercial building in Sussex, it is essential to carry out an asbestos survey to identify any ACMs that may be present. Failing to do so can result in legal action, fines, and serious health problems for your workforce.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we provide affordable and expert asbestos surveys to commercial and industrial properties across Sussex and the South East of England. Contact us today on 01273 978238 or email us at [email protected] to arrange your survey. Alternatively, you can visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-sussex.co.uk for more information.