HSE publish 'HSG 264 Asbestos: The survey guide'
31 March 2010
The HSE has recently published
'HSG 264 Asbestos:
The survey guide'.
Type 1, 2 & 3 surveys are now a
thing of the past. There are now only two types of survey for
asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).
Management
survey
The Management Survey purpose is
required to manage ACMs during the normal occupation and use of
premises. The duty-holder can make a Management Survey where
the premises are simple and straightforward. Otherwise, a
surveyor is needed.
A Management Survey aims to ensure
that:
1. nobody
is harmed by the continuing presence of ACMs in the premises or
equipment;
2. that
the ACMs remain in good condition; and
3. that
nobody disturbs it accidentally
The Survey must locate ACMs that could
be damaged or disturbed by normal activities, by foreseeable
maintenance, or by installing new equipment. It involves
minor intrusion and minor asbestos disturbance to make a Materials
Assessment. This shows the ability of ACMs, if disturbed, to
release fibres into the air. It guides the client, eg in
prioritising any remedial work.
Refurbishment /
demolition survey
The Refurbishment / demolition Survey
is required where the premises, or part of it, need upgrading,
refurbishment or demolition. The Survey does not need a
record of the ACMs condition. Normally, a surveyor is needed
for Refurbishment / demolition Surveys.
A Refurbishment / demolition Survey
aims to ensure that:
1. nobody
will be harmed by work on ACMs in the premises or
equipment;
2. such
work will be done by the right contractor in the right
way
The Survey must locate and identify all
ACMs before any structural work begins at a stated location or on
stated equipment at the premises. It involves destructive
inspection and asbestos disturbance. The area surveyed must
be vacated, and certified 'fit for reoccupation' after the
survey.