By 
Asbestos is a hazardous material that can cause serious health problems if inhaled. As such, it is essential to conduct asbestos surveys to identify any ACMs (Asbestos Containing Materials) and manage the risk of exposure. This blog will explore the difference between asbestos management surveys and asbestos refurbishment and demolition surveys.
Asbestos Management Surveys
An asbestos management survey is a non-intrusive survey designed to locate, as far as reasonably practicable, the presence and extent of ACMs in a building. The survey aims to provide sufficient information to prepare an asbestos register and an asbestos management plan.
During the survey, the surveyor will take samples of suspected ACMs, which a UKAS-accredited laboratory will then analyse. The results will be recorded in an asbestos register, along with information on the condition and location of the ACMs.
Asbestos management surveys are required for all non-domestic buildings constructed before 2000. They should be carried out regularly, usually every two to three years, or whenever there is a change in the use or occupancy of the building.
Asbestos Refurbishment and Demolition Surveys
An asbestos refurbishment and demolition survey is a more intrusive survey carried out before refurbishment or demolition work occurs. The survey aims to locate all ACMs within the building that may be disturbed during the work.
As with an Asbestos Management survey, the surveyor will take samples of suspected ACMs, which a laboratory will also analyse. The surveyor will record the results in an asbestos report, including a detailed plan for safely removing ACMs.
Asbestos refurbishment and demolition surveys are required whenever a building is refurbished or demolished, regardless of age. A UKAS-accredited surveyor must carry out the survey, and the results must be available to anyone likely to disturb the ACMs.
The Main Differences
The main difference between asbestos management surveys and asbestos refurbishment and demolition surveys is the level of intrusion. An asbestos management survey is non-intrusive and aims to locate, as far as reasonably practicable, the presence and extent of ACMs in a building. On the other hand, an asbestos refurbishment and demolition survey is intrusive and aims to locate all ACMs that may be disturbed during refurbishment or demolition work.
Another difference is the frequency of the surveys. Thorough Asbestos management surveys should be carried out regularly, usually every two to three years, or whenever there is a change in the use or occupancy of the building. Asbestos refurbishment and demolition surveys are only required before refurbishment or demolition work occurs.
Conclusion
Asbestos is a hazardous material that can cause serious health problems if inhaled. As such, it is essential to conduct asbestos surveys to identify any ACMs and manage the risk of exposure. Asbestos management surveys and asbestos refurbishment and demolition surveys are critical in managing the risk of asbestos exposure. Still, they differ in terms of their level of intrusion and frequency. Ensuring the correct survey is carried out at the appropriate time is essential to ensure the safety of anyone working in or using the building.
If you are responsible for managing a building, ask yourself: when was the last time an asbestos survey was carried out? Is it time for a new survey? By taking the necessary steps to manage the risk of asbestos exposure, you can help ensure the safety of those who use the building and protect them from the health risks associated with asbestos.
