Do You Need an Asbestos Survey in Caerphilly?
Asbestos is a hazardous material that was widely used in construction and building materials in the UK until its ban in 1999. If you own or manage a property in Caerphilly, it's essential to know if asbestos is present and take necessary steps to manage the risk. An asbestos survey is the first step in identifying and managing asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in your property.
Why Do You Need an Asbestos Survey?
If your property was built before 2000, it's likely to contain asbestos. Asbestos was commonly used in various building materials, including insulation, ceiling tiles, and flooring. Over time, asbestos can become damaged, releasing fibers into the air, which can cause serious health problems. An asbestos survey helps identify ACMs, assess the risk, and provide recommendations for management or removal.
Types of Asbestos Surveys
There are two main types of asbestos surveys: management surveys and refurbishment/demolition surveys. A management survey is a standard survey that identifies ACMs and provides recommendations for management and maintenance. A refurbishment/demolition survey is more invasive and is required when a property is being renovated or demolished.
Who Can Carry Out an Asbestos Survey?
In the UK, asbestos surveys must be carried out by a UKAS-accredited surveyor. UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) is the national accreditation body that ensures surveyors meet the required standards. At Helix Environmental Ltd, our surveyors are UKAS-accredited and have extensive experience in carrying out asbestos surveys in Caerphilly.
What Happens During an Asbestos Survey?
During an asbestos survey, our surveyor will inspect your property, including the building, soil, and surrounding areas, to identify ACMs. We will also assess the condition of the materials and the risk of fiber release. Our surveyor will provide a comprehensive report outlining the findings, recommendations, and any necessary actions.
What Are the Risks of Not Having an Asbestos Survey?
If you don't have an asbestos survey, you may be putting yourself and others at risk. Asbestos fibers can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Additionally, if ACMs are disturbed during renovation or demolition work, it can lead to costly delays and even prosecution.
What Happens After an Asbestos Survey?
After an asbestos survey, our surveyor will provide a report outlining the findings and recommendations. If ACMs are identified, we can provide removal services to ensure the safe and compliant removal of the materials. We also offer ongoing management and maintenance services to ensure the risk is minimized.
Subsidence and Asbestos
Subsidence can cause damage to ACMs, releasing fibers into the air. If you suspect subsidence in your property, it's essential to have an asbestos survey to identify any ACMs and assess the risk.
Fire and Asbestos
Fire can also damage ACMs, releasing fibers into the air. If your property has been damaged by fire, it's essential to have an asbestos survey to identify any ACMs and assess the risk.
Conclusion
If you own or manage a property in Caerphilly, it's essential to know if asbestos is present and take necessary steps to manage the risk. An asbestos survey is the first step in identifying and managing ACMs. At Helix Environmental Ltd, our UKAS-accredited surveyors can provide comprehensive asbestos surveys, removal services, and ongoing management and maintenance services. Contact us today on 029 2236 2397 to schedule your asbestos survey.