Home renovations come with nice things to upgrade but also potential risks, like hidden dangers. One of the most serious risks is asbestos, which was widely used in many homes in the UK for insulation, roofing, ceilings, and floor tiles. Disturbing asbestos releases fine fibres that can be inhaled and lead to potentially life-threatening illnesses. Therefore, a lot of thought and professional advice is needed before commencing any refurbishment or demolition work.
Why Asbestos Remains a Risk in Homes
While asbestos was prohibited in the UK in 1999, there may still be asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in renovation or construction made before this date in both residential and commercial properties. ACMs can include any of the following:
- Ceiling panels and texture coatings
- Vinyl tiles and adhesives
- Lagging for boilers and pipes
- Roofing sheets and wall cladding
The danger occurs during participating in DIY renovations or if undertaking demolition or building work by a contractor. This danger arises when these materials are cut, drilled, or removed and potentially autocrats dangerous fibres into the atmosphere in the domestic or commercial setting. The HSE provide that asbestos is still the single biggest cause of work-related deaths in the UK, so the danger shouldn’t be underestimated.
Understanding the Right Types of Survey
It is crucial to identify, prior to any work involving disturbance, if asbestos will be present. This reinforces the importance of surveys.
A refurbishment and demolition survey is a legal requirement prior to any repair, refurbishment, or demolition where the structure may cause the building to become airborne. A refurbishment and demolition survey thoroughly documents any ACM’s found in a more detailed carcass report, where evidence of ACM’s could potentially be disturbed during or by the planned work.
Whether it is refurbishing a bathroom, knocking through a wall, refitting an entire property, a refurbishment and demolition survey provides all the pertinent information to safely plan the work and abide by regulations.
The Asbestos Demolition Survey
Whenever a building or a part is being taken down completely, an asbestos demolition survey is needed. This is the most detailed survey there is and may involve removing ceilings, walls and floors to find the asbestos that might be deep inside the building.
Due to the disruption caused by the level of investigation needed, the building must usually be vacated whilst the asbestos demolition survey is carried out. Once the asbestos is found, managed or removed, demolition can take place safely.
Steps to Take Before Renovation
If you are planning a renovation project there are some important steps to follow:
- Do not disturb any suspect materials. Don’t sand, drill or remove anything until a professional has ruled out asbestos.
- Arrange the right survey, usually a refurbishment and demolition survey, for any renovation project.
- Test, confirm and validate, all samples collected and analysed by trained surveyors will be tested in accredited labs for certainty.
- Plan around the results of the survey. The results of survey will determine if asbestos needs to be removed, encapsulated or left alone.
Following these steps will avoid costly delays, legal issues and above all protect your health.
What Happens After Asbestos Is Found
If asbestos has been identified, the next steps will depend on the type, condition and location. The options might include:
- Licensed removal: Trained contractors would remove and dispose of asbestos and other contaminated materials while following strict control measures.
- Encapsulation: In certain cases, asbestos can be sealed, and left remaining in place, if it will not be disturbed.
- Re-designing the work plan: Avoid disturbing asbestos, where it is safe to do so.
The survey report will mean that all decisions are being based on data supported by reliable and accurate information and will help minimise the risk to workers and building occupants.
The Value of Professional Support
Trying to locate or handle asbestos without expertise is dangerous and risk serious legal consequences. It should be noted that all surveyors and assessors do not just locate ACM, they also provide comprehensive advice on handling and managing ACM as well.
Employing accredited professionals ensures:
- Adherence to UK asbestos law,
- Correct results and risk assessments from the survey,
- Peace of mind for building owners, contractors and facilities managers.
How We Can Help
At Scopus Asbestos Compliance Ltd, we specialise in helping property owners and businesses stay safe during renovation and demolition projects. Our services include:
- Refurbishment and demolition surveys
- Asbestos demolition surveys
- Sampling and testing
- Licensed asbestos removal and management advice
Whether you are planning a small refurbishment or a complete demolition, we provide clear, professional guidance every step of the way.
Conclusion
Asbestos is not a risk to take lightly. Before carrying out any renovation, refurbishment, or demolition work, the correct survey is essential to keep people safe and ensure compliance. By working with qualified professionals, you protect both your project and your health.
