Numerous studies proving the harmful effects that asbestos can have on human health have meant that its use, even in commercial applications, is now governed by stringent laws. Governments all around the world do not permit the use of any kind of asbestos, although white asbestos is used in some specific industries. In the UK, the law makes it mandatory to conduct asbestos surveys of all buildings constructed or refurbished before the year 2000.

The objective of an Asbestos survey is to look for asbestos fibres in materials used for erecting the building, especially those that are suspected to have a high risk. After the survey, it is critical to find a way to avoid contact with any materials that have been found to have asbestos. Materials, which are likely to degrade, are the most dangerous. These surveys also ensure that dangerous asbestos fibres are not allowed to escape into the atmosphere, thus posing a risk to the public – visit flat roof leak repair for information on construction materials.

Depending on the objective and methodology, asbestos surveys can be of three kinds. In Type 1, all reasonably accessible areas (including lift shafts, service ducts etc) of a structure are assessed for presence of asbestos, assuming that all locations where asbestos has not been found absent must contain it. The motive of conducting a Type 2 survey is the same as above, but in this case, materials suspected for asbestos presence are examined in a lab. A Type 3 survey is more corrective in nature and aims at doing away with asbestos laden materials in the building. It is carried out ahead of demolition or renovation of a structure, in order to manage the rubble carefully without risking the lives of workers or residents because of stray asbestos fibres.

In the UK, companies that do not abide by the rules and refuse to conduct an asbestos survey can face strict action from the authorities – visit residential care homes for specific info on for more advice on house safety. Besides, not conducting the surveys can also lead to a loss of credibility of a firm involved in the construction business, which might take years to repair.

This article approved by the Editor of LevelAdvice.com and Showroom411.com

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