What to Expect From an Asbestos Management Survey

Discovering asbestos/evidence of asbestos in your building is naturally a cause for concern but handling the situation correctly can make a big difference. Your first step should always be to arrange an asbestos management survey, after which you’ll have a much clearer picture of what to do next.

But what exactly is an asbestos management survey? And how will the outcome affect you going forward?

Government Guidelines

According to HSE (Health and Safety Executive) guidance, the purpose of an asbestos survey should be to assess the quantity and condition of any asbestos in the building. It should provide clear and accurate information about where the asbestos is, how much there is, and if there has been any damage to it.

This is because damaged asbestos is significantly more dangerous than undamaged asbestos as microfibres can then be released into the air and inhaled, leading to build-up around the lungs. 

The survey should also provide sufficient information to put together an asbestos management plan and an asbestos register. An asbestos register is a constantly evolving document that keeps track of the scale and condition of a building’s asbestos. Your management plan, meanwhile, will tell you about your next steps and the procedures that should be followed while also establishing a timeline for managing, monitoring, and ultimately handling the problem.

How Long Does An Asbestos Management Survey Take?

The length of an asbestos management survey can vary a lot depending on the size of your property and the scale of the problem. That being said, official guidelines are very clear that the “value and usefulness” of a survey can be “seriously undermined” by any restrictions you might impose.

Put simply, it’s best to plan for the long term and accept that you may not have access to the building for a significant period. If you’re concerned, then the best thing you can do is ask for an estimate and plan for the worst-case scenario.

What to do Next?

An asbestos management survey is a vital first step but it’s important to remember that it is just a first step. Your asbestos management plan will give you details on how to manage the problem and how to keep track of the issue as you proceed. While this can feel like a lengthy process, it’s really important to remember that there’s no such thing as an overabundance of caution where asbestos is concerned.

If you’re looking for a diligent and practical asbestos surveyor with experience and training as well as an honest and straightforward approach, then get in touch with us today at 0800 272378 or by emailing office@0800asbestos.com.