How an Asbestos Survey Can Protect Your Health

Did you know that asbestos-related diseases, such as mesothelioma and lung cancer, account for around 5000 deaths each year in the United States alone? Asbestos was commonly used in building materials until it was banned in the US in 1989, and it is still found in buildings constructed before this date. That’s why it’s incredibly important to have an asbestos survey carried out if you own or manage a building that was built before the ban. This article will explain why asbestos surveys are so vital for protecting the health and safety of building occupants and workers who may come into contact with this dangerous substance.

First of all, what is an asbestos survey? It is a systematic and detailed inspection of a building to identify materials containing asbestos. An accredited asbestos surveyor will take samples of suspected materials and analyze them in a laboratory. A survey report should detail the location, condition, and type of asbestos materials found, as well as give recommendations for managing or removing them safely.

The primary objective of an asbestos survey is to prevent people from being exposed to asbestos fibers, which can become airborne if materials containing the substance are disturbed or damaged. If asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can become trapped in the lungs and cause serious respiratory illnesses, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. These diseases often take years to develop, and symptoms may not appear until decades after exposure. That’s why asbestos surveys are so important for detecting and managing any asbestos-containing materials that might pose a risk to building occupants or workers.

Appropriate management of asbestos materials can help to minimize exposure to asbestos fibers. For example, if asbestos materials are found to be in good condition and not likely to be disturbed, they can be left in place and monitored regularly. However, if asbestos materials are damaged or deteriorating, or if they are likely to be disturbed by maintenance or construction activities, they should be removed by a licensed asbestos removal contractor. An asbestos survey can determine the best way to manage or remove asbestos-containing materials safely.

Another reason why asbestos surveys are critical is that they are often required by law. In many countries, there are regulations governing the management of asbestos in buildings. For example, in the US, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires all school buildings to have an asbestos management plan, which must include an asbestos survey. Similarly, in the UK, the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 require building owners and managers to identify and manage any asbestos-containing materials in their buildings, which can only be achieved through a suitable asbestos survey.

Over the past few decades, there has been a significant reduction in asbestos use, particularly in developed countries. However, asbestos is still present in many buildings constructed before the 1989 ban, and it continues to pose a health risk to people who may come into contact with it. Asbestos surveys are vital for protecting the health and safety of building occupants and workers, as well as for complying with legal requirements. It’s essential to ensure that anyone carrying out an asbestos survey is accredited and experienced in identifying and managing asbestos-containing materials. By taking appropriate measures to manage or remove asbestos materials, we can help to prevent unnecessary exposure to this deadly substance and reduce the risk of asbestos-related diseases.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, asbestos surveys are essential for protecting the health and safety of building occupants and workers who may come into contact with this dangerous substance. Asbestos fibers can cause serious and life-threatening respiratory illnesses, and it’s vital to take appropriate measures to manage or remove asbestos-containing materials. An accredited asbestos surveyor can identify and evaluate any asbestos materials present in a building, and provide recommendations for their safe management or removal. If you own or manage a building that was constructed before the asbestos ban, it’s crucial to have an asbestos survey carried out to ensure compliance with legal requirements and prevent unnecessary exposure to this deadly substance.