Asbestos Removal: How to Carry Out an Effective and Compliant Asbestos Survey
Once you find out that there is asbestos in your property, it is paramount to implement the right controls and remediation procedures. The first step to effective asbestos monitoring and removal is carrying out a survey. This process is aimed at determining the level of exposure to this hazardous material, including the areas affected so as to come up with proper remediation measures. Failure to follow the correct steps can increase the risk of exposure to the dangerous fibers. Here you will learn some of the critical factors that you should follow to achieve an effective, safe, and compliant asbestos survey.
Work with a licensed contractor
If you suspect that your property has asbestos, it is best to leave the material untouched until you find a licensed contractor. Most health hazards that result from incorrect handling of asbestos are caused by DIY removal. Take the time to find a licensed company or contractor that has the certification and experience to carry out asbestos survey and remediation. Although working with an accredited consultant is not a legal requirement, it provides the guarantee of a compliant survey and safe removal and disposal of the hazardous material.
Define your scope of work
Before nominating an asbestos survey and removal consultant, you should ensure that they fully understand the scope of work. If you are the owner of the property and have the building plans, you may have an idea of the areas where asbestos may be present. This is because most structures that were constructed in the 90s may contain asbestos in the materials that were used in the floor tiles, walls, ceilings, pipe cement, and insulation. Walk the consultant through the entire property and pinpoint areas that may require an inspection.
Ensure that you discuss the working hours, especially if it is a commercial property, health and safety considerations, and the security measures that they will put in place. This will facilitate the smooth flow of work and help you determine how to evacuate the property during the survey period.
Organize for sampling
Depending on the size of the property and other factors, it may be difficult for the consultant to access all the areas suspected to have asbestos. In this case, you can opt for sampling where samples of materials from various parts of the building are obtained and tested for asbestos. This procedure takes a few hours, and it is useful in identifying parts of the building that are affected. During the sampling process, it is good to ensure that safety measures are put in place to protect the occupants from exposure to the material.
Contact a professional asbestos consultant for more insights on how to carry out an accurate survey and remove asbestos from your property.
Share