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Comprehensive Asbestos Surveying Services

Discover peace of mind with our thorough asbestos surveying solutions, ensuring your property is free from hazardous asbestos materials.

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Asbestos Surveying: Ensuring Safety and Compliance

Asbestos surveying is a critical process aimed at identifying and assessing the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) within buildings and structures. Asbestos, once widely used in construction due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties, poses severe health risks when disturbed or damaged. Inhalation of asbestos fibers can lead to serious respiratory illnesses, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. The primary objectives of asbestos surveying are to: Identify ACMs: Through visual inspections and sampling, surveyors identify the location, type, and condition of asbestos materials present within the property. This includes materials such as insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, and pipe insulation. Assess Condition and Risk: Surveyors assess the condition of identified ACMs to determine the risk of fiber release and potential exposure. Materials in poor condition or subject to disturbance are considered high risk and require immediate management. Provide Recommendations: Based on survey findings, recommendations are provided for managing asbestos hazards effectively. This may include options such as encapsulation, removal, or ongoing management strategies to minimise exposure and ensure regulatory compliance. ​ There are several types of asbestos surveys, each serving specific purposes: Management Surveys: Conducted to identify and manage asbestos materials present in a building during normal occupancy. These surveys are essential for compliance with regulations and the development of an asbestos management plan. Refurbishment Surveys: Required prior to refurbishment or demolition activities to identify and safely manage asbestos materials that may be disturbed during renovation or demolition works. Demolition Surveys: Conducted prior to the demolition of a building or structure to locate and safely remove all asbestos materials, ensuring the safety of demolition workers and the surrounding environment. At Severn, our team of certified asbestos surveyors utilises industry-leading techniques and equipment to conduct thorough and accurate surveys tailored to the unique needs of each client. With our commitment to safety, professionalism, and compliance, you can trust us to deliver reliable surveying solutions that protect lives and properties from the dangers of asbestos exposure. Contact us today to schedule your asbestos survey and take proactive steps towards a safer environment.

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  • What is asbestos?
    Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that was commonly used in building materials for its heat resistance and durability. However, exposure to asbestos fibres can pose serious health risks, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
  • Is asbestos dangerous if left undisturbed?
    Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are generally safe if left undisturbed. However, if ACMs are damaged or deteriorate over time, they can release asbestos fibers into the air, posing a health risk to occupants.
  • Where is asbestos commonly found?
    Asbestos can be found in a variety of building materials, including insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, roofing materials, and textured coatings like Artex.
  • How do I know if my property contains asbestos?
    The only way to confirm the presence of asbestos is through professional testing conducted by accredited laboratories. Visual inspections alone are not sufficient to determine the presence of asbestos fibres.
  • What does asbestos look like?
    Asbestos fibres are microscopic and cannot be seen with the naked eye. However, asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) may have different appearances depending on the type of material and the manufacturing process. Some common forms of ACMs include: White Asbestos (Chrysotile): Often appears as white or grey fibrous material and was commonly used in insulation, ceiling tiles, and roofing materials. Brown Asbestos (Amosite): Has a brown or dark grey colour and was commonly used in insulation boards and pipe insulation. Blue Asbestos (Crocidolite): Has a blue-grey colour and was commonly used in pipe insulation and cement products. Other Forms: Other forms of asbestos, such as tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite, may appear in various colours, including white, green, or brown, and were used in a variety of construction materials.
  • What are the health risks associated with asbestos exposure?
    Asbestos exposure can lead to serious respiratory diseases, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. These diseases often have a long latency period, meaning symptoms may not appear until years or even decades after exposure.
  • Is it safe to live or work in a building that contains asbestos?
    Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are generally safe if left undisturbed. However, if ACMs are damaged or deteriorate over time, they can release asbestos fibers into the air, posing health risks to occupants. Proper management and, if necessary, removal of ACMs are essential to ensure the safety of occupants and workers.
  • How long does asbestos testing take?
    The turnaround time for asbestos testing depends on the laboratory's workload and the number of samples submitted. Typically, results are available within a few days to a week.
  • Do I need to test for asbestos before renovation or demolition?
    It is highly recommended to test for asbestos before undertaking any renovation or demolition activities, as disturbing ACMs can release asbestos fibers into the air, posing health risks to workers and occupants.
  • How is asbestos testing conducted?
    Asbestos testing involves collecting samples of suspected ACMs and sending them to accredited laboratories for analysis. Samples are analysed using specialised techniques to detect the presence and concentration of asbestos fibers.
  • What should I do if asbestos is found in my property?
    If asbestos is found in your property, it's essential to consult with certified asbestos professionals to develop a management plan. Depending on the condition and location of the ACMs, options may include encapsulation, enclosure, or removal by licensed contractors.
  • How much does asbestos testing cost?
    The cost of asbestos testing varies depending on factors such as the number of samples collected, the type of samples, and the laboratory conducting the analysis. It's best to contact a certified asbestos testing company for a quote based on your specific needs.
  • What happens to asbestos after it is removed?
    Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) removed from a property must be properly disposed of in accordance with regulations. This typically involves sealing the ACMs in leak-proof containers and transporting them to licensed disposal sites where they are safely disposed of.
  • Why is professional asbestos removal necessary?
    Professional asbestos removal is necessary to ensure the safe and proper handling of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) and minimize the risk of exposure to asbestos fibers. Certified removal specialists have the training, experience, and equipment to safely remove ACMs and dispose of them in accordance with regulations.
  • How long does asbestos removal take?
    The duration of asbestos removal depends on various factors, including the size of the project, the type and quantity of ACMs, and the complexity of the removal process. A certified asbestos removal contractor can provide a more accurate estimate based on a site assessment.
  • Do I need an asbestos survey if I'm buying or selling a property?
    While asbestos surveys are not legally required for property transactions, they are recommended to identify and manage asbestos hazards. Knowing the presence of asbestos in a property can help buyers make informed decisions and negotiate prices accordingly.
  • What is asbestos surveying?
    Asbestos surveying involves inspecting a property for the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) and assessing their condition and risk of exposure. The goal of surveying is to identify and manage asbestos hazards to protect occupants and workers.
  • What are the different types of asbestos surveys?
    There are two main types of asbestos surveys: management surveys and refurbishment/demolition surveys. Management surveys are conducted to identify and manage asbestos in occupied buildings, while refurbishment/demolition surveys are conducted prior to renovation or demolition activities.
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