8 Reasons You Might Need An Asbestos Surveyor
Asbestos is a highly hazardous material that was widely used in the construction industry until its UK ban in 1999. Due to its prevalence in buildings built before this time, it is important to assess the presence of asbestos to protect the health and safety of occupants. In Northern Ireland, there are several reasons why you might find yourself needing an asbestos survey. In this article, we will explore these reasons and highlight the importance of conducting an asbestos survey in Northern Ireland.
1. Legal Requirements for Asbestos Surveys
If you own or manage a commercial property in Northern Ireland that was built before the year 2000, there is a legal duty to have an asbestos survey in place. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 imposes this duty to ensure the safety of occupants and workers. A management asbestos survey should be conducted to identify any potential materials that contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). This survey serves as the starting point for ongoing asbestos management within the property.
2. Refurbishment/Demolition Projects
If you are planning any refurbishment or demolition work on a property in Northern Ireland, it is essential to conduct a detailed asbestos survey. This type of survey, known as a refurbishment/demolition survey, goes beyond the scope of a regular management survey. It aims to identify any hidden asbestos materials that may be disturbed during the construction process. This survey is a legal requirement under the asbestos regulations and helps ensure the safety of workers and contractors involved in the project.
3. Asbestos Management Plan
If asbestos is present in your Northern Ireland property, it’s important to have a comprehensive asbestos management plan in place. This plan outlines how you will effectively manage and control the asbestos-containing materials to prevent any risks of exposure. It is a legal requirement to have an asbestos management plan in commercial buildings, and it plays a crucial role in keeping occupants, tradesmen, and visitors safe from asbestos-related hazards.
4. Annual Updates to Asbestos Management Plan
Asbestos-containing materials require regular monitoring to ensure they are not disturbed, degraded, or pose an increased risk. An annual update to the asbestos management plan is recommended to reflect any changes in the condition or risk level of the ACMs. This update involves re-inspecting all asbestos products unless the risk is deemed low and adequate control measures are in place. By conducting regular updates, you can stay on top of the asbestos management requirements and maintain a safe environment.
5. Buying or Selling a Property
Whether you are buying or selling a property in Northern Ireland, it is crucial to consider the presence of asbestos. While it is not a strict legal requirement to have an asbestos survey before purchasing a property, it is highly recommended. By conducting a survey, you can identify any asbestos-containing materials and make informed decisions regarding the property. As a seller, it is essential to disclose any knowledge of asbestos to potential buyers, ensuring transparency and safety.
6. Utility Company Installations
As utility companies upgrade their systems in Northern Ireland, they may look to see an up-to-date asbestos survey before installing cables or making any structural changes. In some cases, a management survey may be sufficient, but for significant works that may disturb the building’s fabric, a refurbishment/demolition survey is necessary. This survey helps identify any potential risks associated with asbestos and ensures the safety of the workers and the public during the installation process.
7. Landlord Responsibilities for Common Areas
As a landlord responsible for commercial or residential properties, you have a legal obligation to be aware of any asbestos-containing materials in the common areas of the property. These areas, including corridors, stairwells, roof spaces, plant rooms, and car parking areas, can often be overlooked. By conducting an asbestos survey, you can fulfill your legal responsibilities and ensure the safety of all tenants and visitors.
8. Peace of Mind and Long-Term Investment
Regardless of the specific reason for needing an asbestos survey in Northern Ireland, it ultimately provides peace of mind and serves as a long-term investment. By identifying the presence of asbestos and implementing appropriate management measures, you can protect the health and safety of all occupants and visitors. Additionally, conducting an asbestos survey before purchasing or selling a property allows you to make informed decisions and avoid potential legal and financial complications in the future.
If you are concerned about any of these 8 reasons and require an asbestos survey in Northern Ireland, our specialists can assist you. We can provide you with the necessary guidance and support in ensuring the safety of your property and its occupants. Call us on the number below and we are on hand to help.
