Asbestos is a dangerous material that was commonly used in building construction until the 1980s. It is now known to cause various respiratory illnesses, including mesothelioma and lung cancer. If you own a commercial property that was built before the 1980s, it’s essential to have an asbestos inspection carried out. Fibre Safe are expert in all things asbestos and asbestos surveys, so in this blog, we’ll explain what to expect during an asbestos inspection and how to prepare for it.
An asbestos inspection is a process that involves identifying and assessing the risk of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in a building. A qualified inspector will inspect the building and take samples of any materials suspected of containing asbestos. These samples will be tested in a laboratory. If they are found to contain asbestos, the inspector will assess the risk posed by the ACMs and recommend appropriate management actions.
During an asbestos inspection, the inspector will visually inspect the property, looking for any materials that may contain asbestos. They may use special tools to take samples of these materials for testing. The inspector will also look for any areas of damage or deterioration in ACMs, which can increase the risk of asbestos fibres becoming airborne.
The inspector will then send the samples to a laboratory for testing. The results of these tests will be used to assess the risk posed by any ACMs in the building. The inspector will provide a report outlining any ACMs found and the level of threat they pose. They will also offer recommendations for managing the risks, including any necessary removal or remediation work.
Before an asbestos inspection, it’s essential to prepare the building. This includes clearing any areas the inspector will need to access, such as attics and crawl spaces. It’s also important to provide the inspector with relevant information about the building, such as its age and construction work history.
If you suspect that your commercial property contains asbestos, you should inform the inspector before the inspection. This will help them focus their inspection on the building areas where asbestos is most likely to be present.
It’s also a good idea to inform tenants and staff that an asbestos inspection will occur. This will help to reduce any concerns they may have about the inspection process and the risks associated with asbestos.
An asbestos inspection is essential in ensuring the safety of commercial properties built before the 1980s. By identifying any asbestos-containing materials and assessing their risk, property owners can take appropriate steps to manage the risks and protect the health of those using the building. Property owners can ensure that the inspection process is carried out efficiently and effectively by preparing for the inspection and providing the inspector with relevant information.
Contact Fibre Safe Today
To ensure that you stay compliant and safe at work, hiring true experts in the industry when working with asbestos is always best. For information on any of our services, contact one of our team on 0151 538 3084.
