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Asbestos in Your Building? Here’s Why You Need a Survey

Asbestos is a dangerous material that can pose serious health risks. If your building was constructed before the year 2000, there’s a chance it contains dangerous materials. While it may seem harmless, asbestos poisoning can lead to severe diseases such as lung cancer and mesothelioma.

Two surveyors conducting an asbestos survey on the roof

The Importance of Asbestos Surveys

The importance of conducting an asbestos survey cannot be overstated. An asbestos survey is crucial for identifying any presence of asbestos in your building. It helps you understand the risk and whether immediate action is needed. If the asbestos is disturbed or in poor condition, it can release dangerous fibres into the air.

By identifying asbestos before it becomes a problem, you’re taking proactive steps to protect everyone’s health. This is why every building owner and employer should prioritise an asbestos survey. It’s an essential part of ensuring workplace safety and meeting legal requirements.

Meeting Legal Requirements

As a building owner or employer, you have legal requirements under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. You must assess whether asbestos is present and manage any risks accordingly. If asbestos is found, you’re responsible for ensuring it’s managed safely or removed by licensed professionals. Failure to meet these obligations can result in penalties.

Conducting an asbestos survey ensures that you meet these legal obligations. It allows you to identify any asbestos risks and take appropriate action, helping to safeguard the health of those in your building.

Preventing Asbestos Poisoning

Asbestos poisoning is a long-term health risk, and the effects may not be apparent for many years. Inhalation of asbestos fibres can cause serious lung diseases, including mesothelioma and asbestosis. Once asbestos fibres are in the air, they are incredibly dangerous.

An asbestos survey will tell you if your building contains any materials that could lead to exposure. If asbestos is found, it can be managed or removed safely. This proactive approach helps prevent asbestos poisoning and ensures that the building remains safe for everyone inside.

Asbestos Removal

If your survey identifies asbestos that is at risk of being disturbed, asbestos removal safely is the next step. It’s important to understand that asbestos removal isn’t a task for just anyone. It requires specialist training and equipment to ensure that the fibres do not spread during removal.

Licensed professionals are trained in asbestos removal safely. They will ensure that all necessary precautions are taken to protect both the workers and anyone nearby. Attempting to remove asbestos without the right expertise can lead to exposure and serious health risks.

An asbestos surveyor onsite in full PPE

An asbestos survey helps you identify risks, meet legal requirements, and take steps towards asbestos removal safely if necessary. It’s an investment in the safety of your building and the wellbeing of those who use it. Are you interested in finding a competent asbestos surveyor today?

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