How Often Do You Need To Have an Asbestos Survey in Sussex?

Asbestos is a dangerous mineral that can cause serious illnesses, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. It was widely used in construction between the 1950s and 1980s, and many buildings still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Asbestos surveys in Sussex are a legal requirement for many buildings, but how often do you need to have one? In this article, we will look at the importance of asbestos surveys, when they are required, and how often you need to have one.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex - A Reliable Asbestos Survey Company in Sussex

Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex is a trusted and reliable asbestos survey company serving Sussex and the surrounding areas. We always operate to the highest standards of professionalism, safety, and quality, and our team of experienced and qualified surveyors provides comprehensive asbestos surveys that comply with legal requirements and industry standards.

We are a licensed asbestos removal company and can help you manage asbestos-containing materials safely and effectively. If you need an asbestos survey or have any concerns about asbestos in your property, we are here to help. Contact us on 01273 978238 or email us at [email protected]. You can also visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-sussex.co.uk to learn more about our services.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building construction due to its strength, durability, and insulating properties. It was mainly used in the 20th century until it was discovered that inhaling its fibers could cause severe health conditions like mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung cancer.

Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are found in many buildings, including domestic and commercial ones. ACMs can be present in insulation, roofing, flooring, ceiling tiles, cement products, and many other building materials.

Asbestos is highly hazardous when it is damaged, disturbed or handled improperly. It releases microscopic fibers into the air that can be inhaled into the lungs, which can lead to severe health issues.

Importance of Asbestos Survey

An asbestos survey is essential to ensure that you and other occupants of a building are safe from exposed asbestos-containing materials. A survey identifies the presence, type and condition of any ACMs on your property and their risk to your health.

It is essential to carry out regular asbestos surveys if you own a building that contains ACMs, as it helps identify any deterioration in the materials over time. If any ACMs are identified as hazardous, you must take action immediately to prevent harm to you, your employees, and the public.

When is an Asbestos Survey Required?

Asbestos surveys in Sussex are a legal requirement for many buildings, including commercial premises, public buildings, and rental properties. According to the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, if you occupy a building or manage a building, you are responsible for its asbestos management.

There are two types of asbestos surveys:

Asbestos Management Survey

This survey is required for non-domestic buildings and those with shared areas in which occupants do not own or manage individual spaces, such as offices, factories, and shops. It involves a comprehensive assessment to locate and evaluate the condition of any ACMs in a building, which allows the building owner to develop a plan for managing the asbestos safely.

An Asbestos Management Survey is essential to enable employers, landlords and managing agents to comply with the duty to manage asbestos. It includes details of the location, type and condition of any ACMs and any necessary actions to protect people from exposure to asbestos fibers.

Asbestos Refurbishment and Demolition Survey

This survey is required before starting any construction or demolition work on a building, whether domestic or commercial. It is necessary to confirm that the proposed work will not disturb any existing ACMs and identify any ACMs that may be disturbed as part of the works.

An Asbestos Refurbishment and Demolition Survey are required to ensure that persons are not exposed to asbestos fibers. It involves a comprehensive assessment of the building and its construction materials and is essential for buildings undergoing major renovation or demolition works.

How Often Do You Need to Have an Asbestos Survey?

The frequency of Asbestos Surveys depends on various factors, including the age and use of the building, the condition and location of any ACMs, and any changes in the structure or use of the building. There are no fixed rules, and it is often up to the owners or managers of the building to decide the best course of action.

As a rule, Asbestos Management Surveys should be carried out every 3-5 years or earlier if any ACMs are suspected to be present or any change in the use of the building. It is also good practice to have the survey updated if any refurbishment or demolition work is planned, as ACMs may be disturbed during these works.

Asbestos Refurbishment and Demolition Surveys are required before starting any construction or demolition works on a building, so the frequency of such surveys depends on the amount and frequency of such works.

Conclusion

Asbestos surveys are a crucial part of managing the risk of ACMs in buildings. An asbestos survey identifies the presence, type, and condition of any ACMs and helps develop a plan to manage them safely. Asbestos surveys are a legal requirement for many buildings, and owners or managers must comply with their legal obligations.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex is your trusted asbestos survey company in Sussex, and we can help you manage the risk of asbestos-containing materials in your building. Contact us on 01273 978238 or email us at [email protected] to schedule an asbestos survey or learn more about our services. Our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-sussex.co.uk has more information about our services and how we can help you manage asbestos safely and effectively.