Asbestos Surveys
The first stage in managing asbestos within your premises is to identify the location, type, condition and extent of any Asbestos Containing Materials (ACMs). This is most easily achieved by conducting an asbestos survey. There are two types of survey and these should be carried out in accordance with HSE guidance note HSG 264.
Management Survey
Management Survey – To locate as far as reasonably practicable, the presence and extent of any suspect ACM’s in the building which could be damaged or disturbed during normal occupancy, including foreseeable maintenance and installation, and to assess their condition.
Refurbishment / Demolition Survey
A refurbishment / demolition survey is a legal requirement before any refurbishment or demolition work is carried out. This survey is used to locate and describe, as far as reasonably practicable, all ACMs where the refurbishment work will be carried out or the whole of the building if demolition is planned. The survey must be fully intrusive and will involve destructive inspection, to gain access to all areas, including those that may be difficult to reach. A refurbishment survey may also be required where more intrusive maintenance and repair work will be carried out.
The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 requires asbestos to be identified and assessed. There is an explicit duty on the employer in occupation to manage the risks from asbestos in their premises.