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So, you need an asbestos survey, but which type of asbestos survey? In this guide, we are going to review the different types of asbestos surveys, why they are important, how to choose the right one, what happens after a survey and how to find a reputable & professional asbestos surveyor.
Asbestos was widely used throughout much of the 20th century in a huge range of construction materials and was hailed as a wonder material thanks to its fire-resistance and insulation properties. However, research conducted toward the end of the last century revealed that the material released fibres when it was disturbed, which would be inhaled by people nearby and lead to life-threatening, long-term health complications and death.
In 1999, legislation was passed in the UK outlawing the use of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in construction. Today, asbestos surveys are a legal requirement, helping to control the risk of exposure to these fibres. To learn more, read our guide here: ‘When is an asbestos survey needed?’
Prior to the introduction of the Control of Asbestos Regulations (CAR) in 2012, there were three variations of asbestos surveys in the UK: Type 1 Asbestos Surveys, Type 2 Asbestos Surveys and Type 3 Asbestos Surveys.
However, the CAR simplified this system, and today the HSE identifies four types of asbestos surveys: asbestos management surveys, refurbishment asbestos surveys, reinspection asbestos surveys & demolition asbestos surveys.
Asbestos management surveys are conducted to inform the planning of long-term management for ACMs, where removal is not required. They are the least invasive of the survey types and are confined to accessible areas of non-residential buildings or common spaces within rented residential properties. Duty holders are required to conduct routine asbestos management surveys as part of their responsibility to keep their properties safe. For more information about surveying commercial properties, read our guide: ‘Asbestos surveys for commercial properties’.
Asbestos refurbishment surveys fall under the bracket of R&D surveys. You can read more about R&D surveys in our guide: ‘What is an R&D survey?’. They are required prior to beginning any refurbishment or renovation work on a property, to ensure that planned operations won’t disturb any yet unidentified ACMs
Asbestos demolition surveys are the most intrusive form of survey, reviewing all parts of a structure for possible ACMs and advising on removal procedures. They are a requirement for all demolition projects, helping to safeguard workforces and the public from potential asbestos-related hazards.
A asbestos reinspection survey is a regular inspection (at a minimum of every 12 months) that assesses the condition of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in a building. The survey helps to ensure that ACMs are safe and that any risks are managed.
The next step is to determine which of the asbestos survey types is right for your needs. This is determined by the type of project you intend to undertake and whether you simply need to maintain compliance.
If you intend to demolish a structure or even part of one, you’ll need to book a demolition survey. Refurbishment or renovation projects will require a refurbishment survey. To ensure ongoing compliance and ensure your management strategy is up to date, you will need a management survey and ongoing asbestos reinspection surveys.
If you have any uncertainty about which types of asbestos surveys you need, just give our expert team a call on 01432 263333.
After your asbestos survey, you will be issued with a comprehensive report, detailing the location of any ACMs. Your report will also advise on the next steps, the nature of which will depend on the type of survey you requested
For example, a demolition survey report will indicate whether you need to schedule licensed or non-licensed asbestos removal, and a management survey report can inform your ongoing management strategy.
Selecting the right asbestos surveyor is key to ensuring you remain compliant and that proper steps have been followed to protect the safety of the public and your staff. A reliable asbestos surveyor should:
• Offer the Right Types of Asbestos Survey – One of the most important factors is assessing whether a potential surveyor offers the asbestos survey type you need.
• Have Relevant Accreditations – A trustworthy surveyor will be able to demonstrate accreditations and quality assurances such as UKAS and ISO accreditation.
• Be Experienced – How long has your surveyor been operating? More experience is usually indicative of more reliable services.
For all types of asbestos surveys, EMS is the smart choice. For more than two decades, we’ve been providing clients across the UK and EU from every sector with trustworthy, cost-effective and accredited asbestos surveys.
To book your asbestos survey in Worcester, the surrounding area or anywhere in the UK, just call our team now on 01432 263333, email us at info@emsgroupuk.com or fill out our contact form here.
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