The words “asbestos exposure” often evoke concerns, and rightly so. Asbestos is a harmful material that, when disturbed, releases fibers that can cause severe health issues such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. With over 125 million people globally at occupational risk of asbestos survey exposure annually, the need for proactive measures is more pressing than ever.
Whether you’re a property owner, manager, or employer, understanding the importance of asbestos surveys can significantly reduce health risks and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Here’s why booking an asbestos survey today could be one of the best decisions for safeguarding your property and the people in it.
Understanding the Importance of an Asbestos Survey
What Is an Asbestos Survey?
An asbestos survey is a process designed to identify any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in your property. The key objective is to assess potential risks and outline proper management strategies to mitigate those risks effectively. By understanding where ACMs might be located, property owners and managers can take informed steps to ensure the safety of occupants.
Why Is It Necessary?
Recent statistics highlight that around 20% of mesothelioma deaths are work-related, often involving exposure to asbestos in older buildings. This underscores the importance of identifying ACM hotspots in properties built before the year 2000. By conducting an asbestos survey, you ensure that any disturbance of ACMs—for instance, during renovations or demolitions—is managed effectively to prevent exposure.
Types of Asbestos Surveys
1. Management Survey
This type is essential for the day-to-day management of asbestos risks. It aims to locate ACMs that could be damaged or disturbed under normal conditions and assess their current condition. Ideal for ongoing property maintenance, this survey ensures that protective measures are in place without unnecessary disturbance of safe, undamaged materials.
2. Refurbishment and Demolition Survey
Planning construction work? This survey is your go-to. It identifies ACMs that could be disturbed during renovation or demolition activities, requiring careful removal before the work begins to prevent accidental exposure.
Employing licensed professionals to conduct these surveys guarantees reliable results and complies with safety standards and legal requirements.
The Value of Proactive Management
Legislative Compliance
Governments globally have put strict regulations on asbestos handling. Non-compliance not only puts lives at risk but also results in hefty fines and legal trouble. Conducting an asbestos survey is a critical step in meeting legal obligations and demonstrating a duty of care.
Health Protection
Did you know that approximately 107,000 deaths occur annually due to asbestos-related diseases? Early identification and management of ACMs reduce the long-term health hazards for building occupants, contractors, and employees.
Cost Reduction
Proactively addressing asbestos risks through surveys can save you from costly cleanup operations or liability claims in the future. Prevention is far more economical than reactive remedial measures after exposure incidents.
Steps to Book Your Asbestos Survey
- Find Certified Surveyors
Hire licensed asbestos professionals to ensure compliance and technical accuracy.
- Understand Your Property Needs
Determine which survey type fits your property’s requirements and planned activities.
- Schedule a Visit
Schedule a survey at your earliest convenience, especially if renovations or demolitions are on the horizon.
- Act on Survey Findings
Once the survey report is ready, promptly act on recommendations, whether it’s sealing, removal, or monitoring ACMs.
Secure Your Space Today
Taking steps to book your asbestos survey today isn’t just a regulatory obligation; it’s a commitment to safety and peace of mind. Protect those who matter by identifying risks early and managing them effectively. An informed decision today can prevent harmful consequences tomorrow.
