Asbestos Survey

What is an Asbestos Survey

AN ASBESTOS SURVEY IS REQUIRED FOR BUILDINGS BUILT BEFORE 2000 PRIOR TO ANY DEMOLITION OR REFURBISHMENT WORK.

An asbestos survey is a way of identifying areas in your home or building that may contain asbestos-containing materials. One of our qualified surveyors will come and do an onsite inspection of your property, visually examining accessible areas, and taking samples of suspected materials for laboratory analysis. With a subsequent survey report, you will have information on what needs to be done next to reduce the risk of asbestos exposure, this can include removing, encapsulating or leaving the asbestos.

Asbestos testing and surveys

DO IT ONCE - DO IT RIGHT!

With Auckland’s Asbestos Removal Specialists.

Types of Asbestos Surveys

asbestos management surveys

Management Surveys

Management surveys are conducted to identify and manage asbestos-containing materials in buildings during normal occupancy. These surveys aim to assess the condition of asbestos-containing materials and their potential risks to occupants and workers. Information gathered from management surveys is used to develop management plans and ensure proper maintenance and monitoring of asbestos to prevent exposure and keep occupants and workers safe.

Refurbishment or Renovation Surveys

Refurbishment surveys are carried out before renovation or demolition work begins in a building or structure. The purpose of these surveys is to locate and assess any asbestos that may be disturbed during the renovation process. By identifying asbestos beforehand, appropriate removal or management procedures can be implemented to ensure the safety of workers and prevent the release of asbestos fibers into the environment. This can also be relevant to the relocation of buildings.

renovation asbestos surveys
asbestos demolition survey

Demolition Surveys

Demolition surveys are conducted prior to the demolition of a building or structure. These surveys are comprehensive and aim to identify all asbestos present in the building so that they can be safely removed before demolition activities commence. Demolition surveys help prevent the accidental release of asbestos fibers during demolition work, protecting both workers and the surrounding environment from exposure to asbestos hazards.

Asbestos Survey Process

  • Onsite Inspection: One of our qualified asbestos surveyors will conduct a thorough examination of the premises, visually inspecting accessible areas to identify potential asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). This step is essential for determining the presence, condition, and location of ACMs within the building.We will use various techniques such as visual inspection, intrusive inspection, and material sampling to accurately identify and document the location and condition of any asbestos present.
  • Samples Taken: During the onsite inspection, we will carefully collect samples of suspected materials using approved techniques to minimise fiber release. We then send these samples to an accredited laboratory for detailed analysis to confirm the presence of asbestos fibers. In areas where we are unable to sample or inspect adequately to confirm the presence of asbestos, we use our expert knowledge to determine whether there is a potential for asbestos being present. In this case the item is recorded as “presumed to contain” asbestos.
  • Lab Report: In the laboratory, specialised testing methods are employed to analyse the collected samples and detect the presence of asbestos fibers. The laboratory report provides crucial information regarding the type and extent of asbestos present in the materials, which is essential for further management decisions. The lab report is included in our final report as reference for you.
  • Asbestos Report: Finally we provide you with an asbestos report containing detailed findings from the onsite inspection and laboratory analysis. It includes information on the location and condition of identified ACMs, the type and extent of asbestos present, and recommendations for managing the asbestos-containing materials to reduce risks.
  • Next Steps: Based on the findings of the asbestos report, appropriate actions are taken to manage the identified ACMs. This may involve leaving, encapsulating or removing the asbestos-containing materials to prevent fiber release and reduce the risk of exposure. If removal of asbestos is recommended this is something we can help with. Ongoing monitoring and maintenance may also be recommended to ensure continued safety.

Your HSWA Obligations as a PCBU

As a PCBU under the HSWA, prioritising safety for all individuals involved, especially during renovations and demolitions, is paramount. Conducting asbestos surveys is crucial to identify and mitigate the health risks associated with asbestos exposure. Thorough asbestos surveys enable the identification of asbestos-containing materials, risk assessment, and implementation of control measures, ensuring legal compliance and fostering a culture of workplace safety.