Surveying a building or structure to determine if there is any asbestos that warrants removal is a very comprehensive process, especially if the structure or building involved is very large in size. However, at the beginning of the process, the surveyor will need to walk through the building/structure to ensure that there is nothing in the way that can cause obstruction to surveyors. The surveyors will also need to walk through the structure to make sure that the plan that they intend to use is valid and feasible. Risk assessment is also performed at the initial time before in-depth survey is performed.
The surveyor will also need to come up with a solid plan that they can follow during the survey. They obtain all the materials and equipment they need to accomplish the task in advance to avoid wasting time when the process is ongoing.
During the process
Surveyors usually work in a group if the building is large. They might have to carry out multiple swipes of the premises during the survey. Surveyors will apply their skills and experience to ensure that they check all suspicious places where asbestos may be inside and outside the house. Usually, they will have developed a keen sense of judgment that allows them to identify suspect ACMs.
Part of the analysis process will involve a water absorption test. The purpose of the absorption test is to determine the density of the material. It also ascertains whether or not the material is cement-based. As the process is being carried out, all non-staff individuals will be required to leave the site to allow workers to do their work. This also prevents the possibility of accidents.
Air Testing
Part of the process will involve testing of the air to determine if the asbestos has already become airborne. There are different standards for air testing and it is important that all of them are used or the most suitable one is chosen. Current industry guidelines that surveyors need to adhere to include reassurance air testing, background testing, and personal air testing.
In reassurance air testing, the aim is to test residual fiber concentration. The goal here is to determine whether after a certain activity there are airborne fibers. Background testing is done prior to asbestos inspection or any removal works begin. The aim here is to ascertain background levels.
Personal testing is usually carried out under advisement of a certified asbestos consultant because it has a wide range of applications. Some of the instances where it is applicable include ensuring work control measures, medical surveillance records, ongoing works, and method risk assessment.
Finally…
After the assessment has been completed, the surveyor will produce a comprehensive report regarding their findings. This report may need to be filed with the relevant government authority. The report should tell you as the owner of the building the levels of asbestos and areas it is found inside the house. If it was an abatement operation, the report will include how the process of removal and what was done to the removed ACMs. When in need of asbestos survey London is worth considering.
