How Many Types Of Asbestos Survey Are There In Sussex

If you live in Sussex or South East England, you might have heard of asbestos, and the dangers it poses to human health. When asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are disturbed, they release microscopic fibers into the air, which can be inhaled and cause serious health problems, such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Asbestos was widely used in the construction industry until the 1980s, and many buildings in Sussex still contain asbestos, particularly those built before 2000. That's why it's important to have an asbestos survey carried out before any refurbishment or demolition works take place, to identify the presence, location, and condition of any ACMs.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex is a reputable asbestos survey company in Sussex, that offers a range of asbestos surveys to suit your needs and budget. We are fully licensed and insured to carry out asbestos surveys and asbestos removal services in Sussex and surrounding areas. Our team of experienced surveyors will visit your property or site, and take samples of any suspected ACMs, which will be analyzed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory to determine the type and level of asbestos present. Based on the results of the survey, we will provide you with a detailed report, that outlines the scope of work required, the risks associated with the ACMs, and the recommended methods of management or removal.

But how many types of asbestos survey are there in Sussex, and what do they entail? In this article, we will explain the different types of asbestos survey available in Sussex, and when each one is required.

Types of Asbestos Survey

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), there are two types of asbestos survey that can be carried out in buildings and structures:

Management Survey

A management survey is the standard survey required for all non-domestic premises, where the dutyholder (owner or occupier) has a legal responsibility to manage asbestos in their building, under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. The purpose of a management survey is to locate, as far as reasonably practicable, the presence and extent of any ACMs within the premises, and to assess their condition and risk of exposure. The survey should be carried out by a competent surveyor, who should use a range of techniques, such as visual inspection, sampling, and analysis, to identify and locate any ACMs. The survey should not cause any damage to the building or the ACMs, and should be carried out when the building is empty, or when the risk of exposure is low.

The management survey report should include a register of all ACMs found, their location, extent, condition, and priority for action. The report should also contain a risk assessment, that identifies the likelihood and severity of exposure to asbestos fibers, and recommends a management plan to control the risks. The management plan should specify the actions required, such as labelling, monitoring, maintenance, or removal of ACMs, and assign responsibilities and timescales for each action.

Refurbishment and Demolition Survey

A refurbishment and demolition survey is required when a building is to undergo major refurbishment or demolition works, as these activities are likely to disturb ACMs. The purpose of this survey is to locate all ACMs in the building, including those that may be hidden, and assess their condition and friability (ease of release of asbestos fibers). The survey should be carried out by a competent surveyor, who should use aggressive sampling and analysis techniques, such as drilling, breaking, and cutting, to access all areas of the building.

The refurbishment and demolition survey report should include a detailed record of all ACMs found, including their location, extent, condition, friability, and asbestos fiber type. The report should also include a risk assessment, that identifies the likelihood and severity of exposure to asbestos fibers during the refurbishment or demolition works, and recommends appropriate control measures to minimise the risks. These measures may include the removal, encapsulation, or sealing of ACMs, or the use of protective equipment and procedures by the workers.

Why Do You Need an Asbestos Survey

Asbestos surveys are essential to protect the health and safety of workers, residents, and visitors to a property or site. Asbestos is a highly hazardous substance, and its effects on the human body may not be apparent for many years after exposure. Therefore, it is important to identify the presence and condition of any ACMs before any works take place, and to take appropriate action to manage or remove them safely.

As a dutyholder or employer, you have a legal obligation to manage the risks from asbestos in your building or workplace, and to provide information, instruction, and training to anyone who may be exposed to asbestos. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines, legal action, and damage to your reputation.

Having an asbestos survey carried out by a reputable and accredited company such as Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, can give you peace of mind that your property or site is safe from the risks of asbestos. Our surveys are conducted to the highest standards, using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques, and are backed by comprehensive reports and ongoing support.

Contact Us

If you need an asbestos survey in Sussex or surrounding areas, don't hesitate to contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex. Our friendly and knowledgeable team are ready to answer your queries and provide you with a free, no-obligation quote. You can reach us by phone on 01273 978238, or by email at [email protected]. You can also visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-sussex.co.uk, where you can find more information about our services and testimonials from our satisfied customers.