The mention of asbestos often conjures images of safety suits and warning signs. For decades, this mineral fiber was hailed for its fire resistance and used abundantly in residential and commercial construction. Unfortunately, the health risks associated with asbestos survey– such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis – became glaringly apparent over time, turning its once-prized versatility into a cause for alarm.
Today, understanding the presence and management of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in buildings is critical, especially for those constructed or refurbished before the year 2000 when asbestos use was prevalent. In this article, we will explain the need for asbestos surveys, highlight methods for identifying ACMs, and provide guidance on managing these hazardous substances safely.
What is an Asbestos Survey?
An asbestos survey is a detailed inspection carried out to locate and assess the conditions of ACMs within a building. It seeks to identify materials that could potentially pose a health risk and provides recommendations for their appropriate management or removal.
There are mainly two types of asbestos surveys:
Management Surveys: This is the standard survey. Its purpose is to manage asbestos-containing materials during the normal occupation and use of the building.
Refurbishment and Demolition Surveys: These are necessary before any refurbishment or demolition work is carried out. They are used to locate and describe all ACMs in the area where the refurbishment work will take place or in the whole building if demolition is planned.
Identifying Asbestos-Containing Materials
Recognizing ACMs can be challenging as asbestos fibers are microscopic and not detectable to the naked eye. Typically, suspect materials must be examined and tested by qualified professionals in labs. Here’s how potential ACMs are identified during surveys:
Visual Inspection: Surveyors look for materials commonly known to contain asbestos, such as certain types of insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, and cement products.
Sampling: Small samples are carefully taken from the materials in question and sent to an accredited laboratory for analysis.
Assessment of Condition: If a material contains asbestos, the survey also assesses its condition to determine any potential risk of fiber release.
Managing Asbestos Risks
Once ACMs have been identified, managing the risk becomes a priority. The following steps outline the typical response:
Developing an Asbestos Register: This document records the location and condition of all identified ACMs and should be readily available to those who plan or carry out maintenance and related work in the building.
Formulating an Asbestos Management Plan: This plan sets out how the risks from these materials will be managed.
Regular Monitoring: ACMs should be inspected routinely to monitor their condition.
Risk Communication: Information about the location and condition of ACMs should be provided to anyone who might come into contact with them.
Safe Removal When Necessary: In cases where ACMs are determined to be a significant health risk and cannot be managed in situ, licensed professionals must undertake their removal.
Conclusion
Conducting asbestos surveys is not simply about compliance; it’s about prioritizing the health and well-being of occupants, workers, and anyone else who may be affected by these hazardous materials. The process of identifying and managing ACMs requires thoroughness, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety.
