Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in buildings and construction materials until the late 20th century, is now recognized as a serious health hazard. When disturbed, asbestos fibers can be released into the air and if inhaled, they can cause diseases such as lung cancer or mesothelioma. Therefore, it’s crucial to protect your property with professional asbestos surveys and testing.
Professional asbestos surveys are an essential tool when it comes to managing the risk of asbestos in your property. These surveys are designed to locate and identify any potential asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) within a building. They also assess their condition and provide guidance on how best to manage them.
A comprehensive survey will involve taking samples of suspected ACMs for laboratory analysis. This is the only surefire way to confirm whether or not a material contains this hazardous substance. If any ACMs are found during the survey, you’ll receive detailed information about their location, quantity, condition and type of asbestos present.
One key advantage of using professional services for these tests is that they have extensive knowledge about where asbestos was commonly used in buildings. They know where to look for it and what types of materials may contain it. This expertise ensures all potential ACMs are identified – something which might not happen if you were trying to do this yourself.
Moreover, professionals use specialized equipment that allows them safely take samples without releasing harmful fibers into the air – another reason why DIY testing should be avoided at all costs.
Once you’ve had an asbestos survey carried out on your property and received confirmation that there are ACMs present; what happens next? The answer depends on several factors including the type of asbestos found, its condition and its location within your building.
If the ACMs are in good condition (i.e., not damaged or disturbed), then leaving them alone may be recommended by professionals since disturbing them could release dangerous fibers into the air. However, if they’re in poor condition or are likely to be disturbed during renovation work, removal may be necessary.
Professional asbestos testing near me companies can also provide advice on how to manage any ACMs left in place. This could involve regular checks to monitor their condition or encapsulation – a process where an ACM is coated with a protective layer that prevents the release of fibers.
In conclusion, protecting your property from the dangers of asbestos involves more than just identifying its presence. It requires professional surveys and tests that accurately locate and identify all potential ACMs within the building. By using these services, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing that you’re doing everything possible to protect yourself and others from the health risks associated with this hazardous material.
Supernova Asbestos Surveys
Hampstead House, 176 Finchley Road, London, NW3 6BT
0204 586 0680