Asbestos Surveys Asbestos Survey London

Asbestos Survey London: Comprehensive Asbestos Management with CWE Group

Asbestos was once hailed as a miracle material for its durability and heat resistance, finding its way into countless buildings and structures throughout the 20th century. However, as its health risks became evident, regulations were put in place to manage and mitigate the dangers of asbestos exposure. In a bustling and historic city like London, where many buildings predate the ban on asbestos, the need for thorough and professional asbestos surveys is paramount. CWE Group stands at the forefront of this essential service, offering expert asbestos surveys in London to ensure safety, compliance, and peace of mind for property owners and managers. This article delves into the critical aspects of asbestos surveys, the specific services provided by CWE Group, and the unique challenges and solutions for asbestos management in London.

Understanding Asbestos and Its Risks

Asbestos refers to a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals known for their strength and resistance to heat. These properties led to its widespread use in construction materials such as insulation, roofing, flooring, and cement. However, when asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are disturbed, they can release tiny fibers into the air, which, if inhaled, can cause serious health conditions including lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.

Given these risks, the identification and management of asbestos in buildings are not just regulatory requirements but also crucial health and safety measures. This is where asbestos surveys play a vital role.

The Importance of Asbestos Surveys

An asbestos survey is a systematic inspection of a building to locate and identify ACMs. These surveys are essential for several reasons:

Health and Safety: The primary purpose of an asbestos survey is to protect the health of building occupants and workers. By identifying ACMs, appropriate measures can be taken to prevent asbestos exposure.

Regulatory Compliance: In the UK, the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 mandates the duty holders to manage asbestos in non-domestic premises. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in significant fines and legal consequences.

Risk Management: Asbestos surveys help in assessing the condition of ACMs and determining the risk they pose. This information is crucial for planning maintenance, renovation, or demolition activities safely.

Informed Decision Making: Knowing the presence and condition of asbestos allows property owners and managers to make informed decisions regarding repairs, renovations, and safety measures.

Peace of Mind: Regular asbestos surveys ensure ongoing compliance with regulations and provide peace of mind that potential hazards are being proactively managed.

Asbestos Surveys

An accurate and comprehensive survey undertaken by an experienced and qualified surveyor is the foundation on which a safe and sound asbestos management infrastructure is built. Our UKAS accreditation and compliance with HSE Guidance HSG264 ensures that our team conducts all surveys in a highly professional and competent manner. The BOHS P402 qualification or equivalent is the minimum qualification requirement for each surveyor.

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Analytical Services
Although not a legal requirement, it is preferred that the analyst is employed by the building owner or occupier for site clearance certification as this avoids any conflict of interest and also enables an independent party to be involved in resolving any problems that may arise during the clearance process.
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Bulk Sample Analysis

CWE services Ltd are UKAS accredited to carry out the analysis of asbestos in bulk samples in accordance with HSE guidance (HSG 248), UKAS lab 30 and inhouse procedures.

Our team of highly experienced laboratory analysts conduct analysis within our modern laboratory using stereo and polerised light microscopy.

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Management Plans
The main purpose of a management plan is to ensure so far as is reasonably practicable that no one can come to any harm from asbestos on the premises. In particular, it is to prevent the inadvertent exposure to ACMs by workers who can disturb the fabric of the building during maintenance, refurbishment/repair, installation and related activities.
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Project Management

Managing your asbestos removal in a property an onerous task for the duty holder. This can be fraught with problems if you do not possess some degree of experience in the area. In addition, a sound working knowledge of the standards, specifications and documentation required is absolutely essential.

Our experienced team at CWE can utilise its skills, on your behalf, to ensure that the asbestos in your property is removed in a correct and legal manner.

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Types of Asbestos Surveys

CWE Group offers a range of asbestos survey services in London, tailored to meet the specific needs of different buildings and situations. The main types of asbestos surveys include:

Management Surveys: These are standard surveys designed to locate ACMs that could be damaged or disturbed during normal occupancy and use of the building. Management surveys involve minor intrusive work and sampling to identify ACMs and assess their condition.

Refurbishment and Demolition Surveys: These surveys are necessary before any refurbishment or demolition work is carried out. They are more intrusive and comprehensive than management surveys, as they aim to identify all ACMs in areas where the work will take place. This ensures that appropriate measures can be taken to handle asbestos safely during such activities.

Re-inspection Surveys: For buildings with known ACMs, regular re-inspection surveys are essential to monitor the condition of asbestos over time. These surveys ensure that any deterioration or damage is identified promptly, and necessary actions are taken to maintain safety.

CWE Group: Leaders in Asbestos Survey Services in London

CWE Group has established itself as a trusted and reliable provider of asbestos survey services in London. Here’s why CWE Group is the go-to choice for asbestos surveys:

Expertise and Experience: CWE Group boasts a team of highly qualified and experienced asbestos surveyors. Our professionals are trained to the highest standards and possess the expertise to conduct thorough and accurate surveys.

Comprehensive Services: We offer a full spectrum of asbestos survey services, including management surveys, refurbishment and demolition surveys, and re-inspection surveys. Our services are customized to meet the unique needs of each client, ensuring that all potential risks are identified and managed effectively.

Advanced Technology: CWE Group utilizes the latest technology and equipment to carry out asbestos surveys. Our advanced tools enable us to detect even the smallest traces of asbestos, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of your property.

Regulatory Compliance: We ensure that all our surveys are conducted in strict compliance with the latest regulations and industry standards. Our reports are detailed, easy to understand, and provide all the information needed to manage asbestos risks effectively.

Customer-Centric Approach: At CWE Group, we prioritize our clients' needs and concerns. We work closely with you to understand your requirements and provide tailored solutions that meet your specific needs. Our team is always available to answer any questions and provide ongoing support.

The Asbestos Survey Process

CWE Group follows a meticulous and systematic process to conduct asbestos surveys, ensuring thoroughness and accuracy at every step. Here’s an overview of the process:

Initial Consultation: The process begins with an initial consultation to understand your needs and the specifics of your property. This helps us determine the type of survey required and plan accordingly.

Site Assessment: Our surveyors visit the site to conduct a visual assessment and plan the survey. They identify potential areas where asbestos might be present and decide on the extent of the survey.

Sampling: During the survey, our team collects samples from suspected ACMs. These samples are carefully handled and sent to accredited laboratories for analysis.

Laboratory Analysis: The samples are analyzed to confirm the presence of asbestos and determine the type of asbestos fibers. This step is crucial for understanding the risk level and planning appropriate management strategies.

Reporting: After the analysis, we compile a detailed report outlining the findings of the survey. The report includes information on the location, type, and condition of ACMs, along with recommendations for management or removal.

Recommendations and Management Plan: Based on the survey results, we provide clear recommendations and a management plan to address any identified asbestos risks. This may include monitoring, encapsulation, or removal of ACMs.

Unique Challenges of Asbestos Surveys in London

London's diverse architecture and dense population present unique challenges for asbestos surveys. Here’s how CWE Group addresses these challenges:

Historic Buildings: Many of London's buildings are historic and may contain significant amounts of asbestos. CWE Group's expertise in handling delicate and heritage structures ensures that surveys are conducted with minimal disruption and maximum care.

High-Density Areas: In densely populated areas, conducting intrusive surveys requires careful planning and coordination to minimize inconvenience and ensure public safety. CWE Group’s experienced team excels in managing such logistical challenges.

Complex Layouts: London's buildings often have complex layouts and multiple extensions or refurbishments over the years. Our surveyors are skilled in navigating and assessing such intricate structures thoroughly.

Regulatory Environment: London’s strict regulatory environment demands meticulous compliance with health and safety standards. CWE Group's adherence to regulations ensures that all surveys meet the highest standards of accuracy and safety.

The Benefits of Regular Asbestos Surveys

Regular asbestos surveys offer several benefits:

Continuous Compliance: Regular surveys ensure ongoing compliance with health and safety regulations, protecting you from legal and financial repercussions.

Proactive Risk Management: Regular monitoring of ACMs allows for proactive management, preventing potential exposure risks before they become serious.

Maintenance Planning: Knowing the condition of ACMs helps in planning maintenance activities effectively, avoiding unexpected disruptions and costs.

Occupant Safety: Regular surveys ensure the safety and well-being of building occupants by identifying and mitigating asbestos risks promptly.

Conclusion

An asbestos survey in London is an essential service for ensuring the safety, compliance, and peace of mind of property owners and managers. CWE Group stands out as a leading provider of asbestos survey services, offering expert guidance and comprehensive solutions tailored to the unique challenges of London’s diverse buildings.

Whether you are a property owner, manager, or developer, CWE Group is here to assist you with all your asbestos survey needs. Our commitment to excellence, regulatory compliance, and customer satisfaction makes us the trusted choice for asbestos surveys in London. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you maintain a safe and compliant environment.

Asbestos Survey FAQs

What type of survey will I need?

There are three main types of asbestos survey that can be conducted depending on your requirements.

All survey types include a full written report detailing the areas that have been inspected, details of any suspect asbestos containing materials (ACM’s) that have been identified, full colour photos, floor plans showing the areas surveyed including where suspect materials have been found and recommendations from the surveyor regarding dealing with any positive or presumed ACM’s found.

– Asbestos Management Survey

This is the standard survey that should be carried out for the continued management of asbestos in both commercial and residential properties.

The purpose of the survey is to locate, as far as is reasonably practicable, the presence and extent of any suspect ACMs in the building and assess their condition. The survey will primarily involve sampling and analysis to confirm the presence or absence of ACMs.
Management surveys often involve minor intrusive work and some disturbance which will vary between premises and what is reasonably practicable. This type of survey is not suitable if any intrusive or destructive refurbishment works are to be carried out.

– Asbestos Refurbishment / Demolition Survey

A refurbishment or demolition survey is used to locate, as far as is reasonably practicable, all ACMs in the areas where major refurbishment works are planned or to the whole building in the case of demolition work.

These survey types are more intrusive and destructive than management surveys and will investigate further into the fabric of the building.
Is it a legal requirement to have an asbestos survey?

Any non domestic property built before 2000 is required to have an asbestos management survey under the control of regulations 2012 regulation (4).

In addition, no works including major refurbishment, demolition or maintenance should be carried out in a domestic or non-domestic property unless a suitable and sufficient assessment as to whether asbestosis present, the type(s) of asbestos, the types of materials and their condition has been carried out.

Failure to carry out suitable asbestos checks before works may cause delays or at worst prosecution and fines and possible expose contractors and members of the public or occupants to asbestos.
Are CWE qualified to carry out asbestos surveys?
Yes absolutely!

CWE are fully UKAS accredited to carry out the following asbestos related activities:-
- Asbestos surveys (management, refurbishment and demolition) in all domestic, commercial and industrial properties.
- Asbestos priority risk scores
- Asbestos reinspection surveys
- Asbestos air monitoring, including reassurance, background, personal testing, 4 stage clearance and issue of certificates of reoccupation.
- Asbestos bulk analysis
Our approved quality systems are independently audited against ISO 17020 for surveying and ISO 17025 for analytical activities. We also carry out rigorous internal quality audits and quality control to ensure the standards set by the HSE and UKAS are maintained at all times.

Our staff are fully qualified with the relevant BOHS (or equivalent) qualifications. Site staff also hold confined space training and CSCS cards. Staff go through yearly asbestos awareness and surveying refresher courses.
What additional surveys can CWE provide?

Not only can we provide asbestos surveys and analytical work but CWE can also provide services to help you with managing your asbestos or helping to manage removal.

– Asbestos management plans

Managing asbestos in a property is undoubtedly a difficult task for the duty holder, especially if knowledge and upkeep of current asbestos laws are superficial. There is a risk of incurring legal action if the process is not correctly adhered to and a wide range of criteria that must be satisfied within the eyes of the HSE where the treatment of asbestos is concerned.

Our experienced project management team at CWE can utilise their skills, on your behalf, to ensure that the asbestos in your premises is maintained in accordance to current asbestos legislation and can provide advice and services including creation of an asbestos management plan in accordance with the control of asbestos regulation 2021, regulation 4.

– Asbestos removal management

Supervising and managing your own asbestos removal or containment can prove extremely time-consuming and costly if you do not possess some degree of experience in this area. In addition, a sound working knowledge of the standards, specifications and documentation required is absolutely essential.

CWE can represent you in your removal management projects helping to plan the removal works, liaise with the removal contractors on your behalf and carry out appropriate air testing once the works are complete

– Asbestos reinspection survey

The purpose of an asbestos re-inspection survey is to review previously identified ACM’s and make an assessment of any deterioration of those previously identified asbestos and associated recommendations, to ensure that all asbestos containing materials comply with the Duty Holder’s responsibilities under the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 and Regulation 4 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

The report forms a periodic asbestos review covering previously identified locations of asbestos containing materials. This is typically carried out on an annual basis to help the duty holder form an effective asbestos management plan and to ensure that the asbestos containing materials remain in a good condition and are not likely to be disturbed.

– Priority Risk Assessments

Regulation 4 Duty of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 requires the appointed Duty Holder to ensure that “the risk of anyone being exposed to asbestos containing materials is assessed”.

An asbestos survey report will identify the material risk score. This risk will identify the likelihood of the material releasing fibres should it be disturbed. Priority Risk Assessments relate to the material within its environmental surroundings. It takes into account further factors such as occupancy levels and maintenance activity in order to produce a risk figure.

These two scores combined produce a risk score that can be used by the Duty Holder to produce an effective management plan and to identify materials that require immediate action.
Does the property need to be empty during the survey?

This depends on the type of survey being carried out.

For asbestos management surveys the premises can still be occupied but the surveyor may ask occupants to vacate a room during the inspection/sampling.

Asbestos refurbishment and demolition surveys will need to be undertaken in unoccupied properties or areas. Due to the nature of these surveys we must use intrusive and destructive surveying techniques to inspect areas of the building that would normally be inaccessible (wall cavities and ceiling void for example). To ensure the safety of the public and occupants these areas will need to remain unoccupied until the survey has been completed.
How long does an asbestos survey take?
Surveys are carried out meticulously, methodically and thoroughly to make sure all ACM’s are identified and all areas of the property are inspected.

The length of time for an asbestos surveys depends on a number of factors including:-
- – The size of the property
- – Number of floors
- – Number and size of any outbuildings
- – Any additional specialist equipment or safety measures required
In most cases CWE can quote on a half day or full day basis. Due to their intrusive nature refurbishment and demolition surveys may take longer to complete than management surveys.

It is important to leave enough time between having your asbestos survey conducted and any planned works to allow for removal of any ACM’s, typically we recommend carrying out a survey at least one month beforehand to avoid any potential disruption and delays!
How much damage is caused during a survey?

Each survey type conducted will cause a small amount of damage to materials during the sampling process of suspected ACM’s.

Usually a small section of the material is removed to undergo analysis in our bulk sample laboratory. Where possible this will be removed from an area that is unobtrusive, the area is then sealed by the surveyor to prevent and further damage or exposure to occupants.

Non uniform materials such as textured coating may have several smaller samples taken from each area to produce a representative sample. Where this occurs each area will be sealed individually.

Asbestos refurbishment and demolition surveys will be intrusive and destructive and will cause damage to the areas of the property that are surveyed. However any damage will always be in locations where works will be undertaken. Areas where surveyors will need to create an inspection hole to investigate sealed areas (solid suspended ceiling and pipe boxing form example) will be temporarily sealed once the survey is complete.
How much does an asbestos survey cost?

Each of our survey quotes are bespoke to each property to give you the best value and peace of mind.

We use the size of the property, the type of survey required and the estimated length of time to give you an accurate no obligation quotation.

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In recognition of our exacting standards, we have built a substantial client portfolio based on our quality of service.

To find out more about CWE Services, ask for advice regarding asbestos management or to receive a no obligation asbestos quotation, contact us using the details below.