There are two main types of asbestos surveys: management surveys and refurbishment/demolition surveys. Management surveys are the most common type of asbestos survey and are carried out to identify the presence of ACMs in a building. Refurbishment/demolition surveys are more intrusive and are carried out prior to any refurbishment or demolition work taking place.
A management survey involves inspecting the building for ACMs and taking samples of any suspect materials. The samples are then analysed in a laboratory to determine whether or not they contain asbestos. A refurbishment/demolition survey is more intrusive and involves taking samples from all areas of the building, including areas that may be difficult to access.
Asbestos Survey Reports
The asbestos survey report is a critical document that outlines the findings of the survey. The report should include the following information:
• The purpose of the survey
• The scope of the survey
• The location and condition of any ACMs found
• The type of asbestos identified
• The risk posed by the asbestos
• Recommendations for managing or removing the asbestos
• A plan for ongoing monitoring and management of the asbestos
Asbestos Management Plans
An asbestos management plan is a document that outlines how asbestos will be managed in a building. The management plan should include the following information:
• A description of the building and its use
• The location and condition of any ACMs
• The risk posed by the asbestos
• Procedures for managing and monitoring the asbestos
• Emergency procedures in case of accidental disturbance of the asbestos
• Training requirements for building occupants and maintenance staff
• Plans for ongoing monitoring and review of the management plan
• Asbestos Removal and Remediation
If ACMs are identified during an asbestos survey, they will need to be removed or remediated. Asbestos removal should only be carried out by a trained asbestos removal contractor.