Asbestos Surveys – Understanding the regulations and the importance of having an asbestos survey carried out
The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006 came into force in November 2006. The new Regulations brought together three previous sets of Regulations covering the prohibition of asbestos, the control of asbestos at work and asbestos licensing.
The Regulations prohibit the importation, supply and use of all forms of asbestos, including the second-hand use of asbestos products. However, if existing asbestos containing materials are in good condition, they may be left in place and their condition monitored to manage disturbance and declamation.
To locate, assess and manage any existing asbestos in a building an asbestos management survey should be commissioned. An asbestos register and management plan should then be put in place to monitor the asbestos containing materials on a regular basis.
An additional, more intrusive asbestos survey needs to be carried out prior to any refurbishment or demolition works being carried out.
More information can be found on the HSE website at www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/regulations.htm
Published Aug 31, 2011
