Why are Asbestos Surveys Important at the Start of a Retrofit Project?

Essential Insights into an Asbestos Survey

Conducting an asbestos survey is a fundamental requirement at the outset of any retrofit project. This process enables the identification and management of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) within houses and buildings, ensuring compliance and the safeguarding of residents and installers before the commencement of works.

Historically, asbestos was heavily utilised within the construction sector because of its resistance to fire, heat and electrical hazards. Over time, the significant health risks associated with asbestos exposure became well-documented, leading to a ban on its use in numerous countries. Despite these regulatory measures, asbestos-containing materials persist within parts of the UK’s older housing stock and continue to present a serious risk to health if they are disturbed during retrofit or refurbishment works.

This is where an Asbestos Survey becomes crucial.

The Risks

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is the name given to several naturally occurring fibrous minerals that have crystallised to form fibres. These can not be dissolved in water and can easily become airborne if they are disturbed. Once inhaled, these fibres can lodge in the lungs and other tissues, causing serious health issues such as lung cancers, asbestosis, and potentially fatal cancers. The health impacts of asbestos exposure often remain dormant for many years; however, prolonged or repeated exposure significantly elevates the risk of developing severe illnesses.

Where has asbestos been used?

Asbestos was widely used in a variety of building materials:

• Insulation in walls, ceilings and roofs.
• Pipe insulation
• Cement products were used in garages and sheds, in roofing sheets and wall cladding.
• Vinyl floor tiles

The Legal and Compliance bits

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 came into force on 6 April 2012. These regulations set out to ensure that employers and duty of care holders manage asbestos safely. Failure to comply can lead to hefty fines and legal action. An asbestos survey is the first step in ensuring compliance with these laws, protecting not only the health of residents but also the installers of the planned retrofit measures.

The importance of an Asbestos Survey:

• Identifying ACMs - These materials are not always visible. Hidden in insulation, floor tiles, ceiling tiles, roofing material and even some forms of paint, the professional asbestos surveyor will thoroughly inspect your property, taking samples of any suspected material and testing them.
• Planning safe retrofit projects - If no asbestos is present, the planning of the relevant retrofit measures can take place safely. However, if asbestos is found within your property, we will take precautionary measures. This will involve a licensed asbestos removal company to safely remove or encapsulate the material before any work begins.
• Protecting health - property owners are responsible for the health and safety of their residents and visitors to these premises. An asbestos survey helps to fulfil this responsibility by identifying and mitigating the risks before they cause harm.

What to expect during the survey?

During the asbestos survey, you can expect the following steps:

Visual Inspection: The surveyor will inspect the property for signs of asbestos or suspected materials.

Sample Collection & Testing: Small samples will be taken from any material that looks suspicious and sent to an accredited lab for testing to ensure accuracy and recognition.

Use of PPE: The surveyor will wear appropriate protective equipment to ensure safety.

Duration: The survey can take a few hours, depending on the size and layout of the property.

An asbestos survey provides essential insights and peace of mind, and must be completed before any retrofit works can begin.

Get in touch with us today to find out how we can support you and your organisation.