What to expect as part of an asbestos survey?

Our Principal Consultant for Environmental Contamination Brett Abraham, writes about what to expect as part of an asbestos survey. He outlines the three key steps we undertake for a survey and stresses the importance of hiring qualified professionals to do the job.

Always hire a qualified company to do an asbestos survey at your commercial or residential proprerty. It is not recommended that you do it yourself. Why is that? Asbestos surveyors are experts in the asbestos field and have experience, training, and expertise in identifying asbestos and asbestos containing materials (ACM).

Stage 1 – Visual Inspection

The first part of the survey involves doing a visual inspection to identify possible ACM. Depending on the type of survey (management, refurbishment, or demolition) the intrusiveness of the survey will be determined. It involves inspecting materials in and surrounding the property. Based on the visual inspection sampling of some of the materials may be required. Sampling helps to either confirm asbestos or rule it out.

Stage 2 – Determine The Risk

During the asbestos survey, the current condition of the ACM will be analysed to determine the risk for fibre release from the materials. If the materials have not been disturbed or damaged it be low risk and no action will be taken and a management plan will be created for any identified ACM. If the material/s are deteriorating they must be repaired, enclosed or removed depending on its risk factor and the type of material it is. Removal may also be required if demolition or refurbishment is going to take place.

Stage 3 – Asbestos Survey Report & Asbestos Management Plan Delivery

After the asbestos survey has been completed you will receive an asbestos survey report and management plan which includes the laboratory certificate for the samples analysed, next steps, as well as recommendations for safe removal if applicable.

Let us help you

If you are concerned about asbestos, feel free to email our friendly team at asbestos@tcec.co.nz or call 0800 027 237 and we’d be more than happy to help.