ASBESTOS SURVEYS

From May 2004 people responsible for non-domestic premises need to know about Asbestos Containing Materials (ACM's) on their premises, it's location, condition and how to manage it. This requires each building to have an asbestos register available on site.

Our surveyors have extensive experience, having initially started within the industry as asbestos operatives, before progressing through the company. This gives excellent on site experience and insight into where potential ACM's can be found. All are fully qualified to current industry standards (BOHS P402) and have experience of surveying anything from a small residential flat through to large offices and industrial sites that are in constant use. We offer all 3 types of survey as detailed below and also the periodic inspections that are required every 6-12 months to manage the register. All samples are tested at an independent UKAS Accredited Laboratory.

Type 1: Location and assessment survey

These are visual inspections only and it must be presumed that any suspect materials contain asbestos. The time scale of a type 1 survey is a little less than a type 2 as no samples are taken but this still leaves questions unanswered. The procedure and cost of the survey is usually the same as a type 2 but does not have the additional cost of the samples or the benefit of their results.

Type 2: Standard sampling, identification and assessment survey

This is the most preferred type of survey carried out as they provide a laboratory confirmed result. These surveys involve taking samples from any potential ACM's, to be tested at a UKAS Accredited Laboratory. The location is photographed and a data sheet is filled in with regards to material type, extent, condition and risk. This data is then transferred to the main survey document, including the position of the sample and the results of the laboratory analysis.

Type 3: Full access sampling and identification survey

Also known as pre demolition/major refurbishment, these surveys are as a type 2 but if it is suspected that there may be asbestos under the floor, in the walls or between layers of the ceiling, the structure must be opened up to reveal any hidden asbestos. This may cause damage to the fabric of the building but is obviously required if the building is to be demolished or if the interior design of the building is going to be changed.

Any additional information required about this regulation is available by clicking on the HSE logo.