How Often Do You Have To Have An Asbestos Survey In Sussex

If you are a property owner in Sussex or South East England, you may be wondering how often you need to have an asbestos survey. Asbestos is a hazardous material that was commonly used in buildings until the year 2000. Asbestos fibres can cause serious health problems if they are released into the air and then inhaled. Therefore, it is important to ensure that any asbestos-containing materials are identified and properly managed.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we are an asbestos survey company in Sussex that provides a range of services to help property owners manage asbestos safely. In this article, we will discuss the importance of asbestos surveys, the different types of surveys available, and how often you need to have an asbestos survey.

What is asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibre that was commonly used in construction materials from the 1950s to the year 2000. Asbestos was used because it is fire-resistant, durable, and a good insulator. However, asbestos has since been found to be a hazardous material that can cause serious health problems if it is released into the air and then inhaled. There are several types of asbestos, including white asbestos, blue asbestos, and brown asbestos.

The Importance of Asbestos Surveys

Asbestos surveys are an essential part of managing asbestos in buildings. Asbestos surveys are carried out to identify any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that may be present in a building. Asbestos surveys are required by law, and failure to comply with the regulations can result in significant fines and legal action. Asbestos surveys are necessary to ensure that any ACMs are properly managed, and to prevent the risk of exposure to asbestos fibres.

Different types of Asbestos Surveys

There are two main types of asbestos surveys: Asbestos Management Surveys and Asbestos Demolition or Refurbishment Surveys.

Asbestos Management Surveys

Asbestos Management Surveys are carried out to identify any ACMs that may be present in a building. Asbestos Management Surveys are necessary for any building that was built before the year 2000. Asbestos Management Surveys are required to identify the location and condition of any ACMs in the building. Asbestos Management Surveys are also used to assess the risk of exposure to asbestos fibres, and to develop a management plan for any ACMs that are identified.

Asbestos Demolition or Refurbishment Surveys

Asbestos Demolition or Refurbishment Surveys are carried out prior to any demolition or refurbishment work. Asbestos Demolition or Refurbishment Surveys are more extensive than Asbestos Management Surveys as they involve a full inspection of the premises. Asbestos Demolition or Refurbishment Surveys are necessary to identify any ACMs that may be present in the building and to assess the risk of exposure to asbestos fibres during the demolition or refurbishment work.

How often do you need to have an Asbestos Survey?

The frequency of asbestos surveys depends on several factors, including the age and condition of the building, the type of building, and the previous asbestos survey results.

Commercial Premises

For commercial premises, such as offices, shops, and warehouses, an asbestos survey should be carried out every two to three years or when any changes are made to the premises. Any identified ACMs should be properly managed, and the asbestos survey report should be reviewed regularly.

Public Buildings

For public buildings, such as schools, hospitals, and government buildings, an asbestos survey should be carried out every year or when any changes are made to the premises. Any identified ACMs should be properly managed, and the asbestos survey report should be reviewed regularly.

Residential Buildings

For residential buildings, such as houses and flats, an asbestos survey is not normally required unless the building is a listed building or is suspected to contain ACMs. However, if any refurbishment or renovation work is being carried out, an asbestos survey should be carried out before work commences.

Asbestos Management

Managing asbestos is an ongoing process that involves identifying and assessing the risk of exposure to ACMs, developing a management plan, and regularly reviewing the management plan. The management plan should include information on the location and condition of any ACMs, the risk of exposure to asbestos fibres, and any actions that are required to manage the ACMs.

It is important to ensure that any asbestos removal work is carried out by a licensed asbestos removal company. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we are a licensed asbestos removal company that provides a range of asbestos removal services to property owners in Sussex and South East England.

Conclusion

In conclusion, asbestos surveys are an essential part of managing asbestos in buildings. Asbestos surveys are required by law, and failure to comply with the regulations can result in significant fines and legal action. The frequency of asbestos surveys depends on several factors, including the age and condition of the building, the type of building, and the previous asbestos survey results. To ensure that any ACMs are properly managed, it is important to develop a management plan and regularly review the plan. If you require an asbestos survey or require any asbestos removal work, please contact us at Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex on 01273 978238 or email us at [email protected]. Alternatively, you can visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-sussex.co.uk for more information.