Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was extensively used in the construction industry until the late 20th century. Due to its heat resistance, strength and insulating properties, it was considered an ideal material for building homes and commercial structures. However, over time asbestos has been linked to serious health issues including lung cancer and mesothelioma. This is why every older building needs an asbestos survey.

An asbestos survey is a thorough inspection carried out on buildings constructed before the year 2000 when asbestos use was banned in most countries. The main aim of this survey is to identify any presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that could pose a risk to occupants’ health if disturbed or damaged.

The importance of conducting an asbestos survey cannot be overstated. Asbestos fibers are microscopic and can easily become airborne if ACMs are disturbed during renovations or demolitions. Once these fibers are inhaled, they can lodge into the lungs causing severe damage over time leading to diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer or mesothelioma which often prove fatal.

Moreover, there are legal implications associated with managing asbestos risks in buildings. In many jurisdictions around the world, read more about it on this page‘s mandatory for owners of commercial properties built prior to 2000 to have an up-to-date asbestos register and management plan in place. Non-compliance with these regulations can result in hefty fines or even imprisonment.

Carrying out an asbestos survey also makes economic sense. Undetected ACMs that get disturbed during renovation works can lead not only costly decontamination procedures but also significant project delays which can impact profitability severely.

Furthermore, having knowledge about the presence of ACMs helps property owners make informed decisions regarding their maintenance plans and future refurbishment projects while ensuring safety standards are met at all times.

It’s important that such surveys should be conducted by licensed professionals who have experience dealing with hazardous materials like asbestos because identifying ACMs requires specialist knowledge due its various forms and uses in buildings. These professionals also know how to take samples without causing unnecessary damage or disturbance which could potentially release asbestos fibers into the air.

In conclusion, an asbestos survey is a crucial step for any older building. Not only does it protect the health of occupants and workers, but it also helps property owners comply with legal obligations, avoid unexpected costs and delays during refurbishment works while ensuring the overall safety of the structure. Therefore, if you own or are responsible for an older building, scheduling an asbestos survey should be at the top of your priority list to ensure peace of mind for everyone involved.

Asbestos Survey

admin