You may be required to undertake an asbestos re-inspection on your property, but what is a re-inspection and what does the process entail? Our asbestos experts have answered the top 3 questions we get about asbestos re-inspection in this blog, so keep reading to find out more.
What is an asbestos re-inspection?
In the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, it states that:
“Any identified or suspected asbestos-containing material (ACM) must be inspected and its condition assessed periodically, to check that it has not deteriorated or been damaged”.
An asbestos re-inspection can help you adhere to this requirement by allowing the duty holder to keep a record of the condition of their asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). The ACMs will have been identified previously in an asbestos survey (be it a management survey or refurbishment and demolition survey) and the re-inspection calls for an asbestos professional to revisit the site to ensure the ACMs have not deteriorated over time.
As with any building materials, ACMs (when left over a time period) can become damaged or deteriorated. However, unlike most modern building materials, when ACMs become damaged they release asbestos fibres into the air which pose a serious risk to health. This is why asbestos re-inspections are a crucial part of asbestos management.
How often should I undertake an asbestos re-inspection?
Your asbestos management plan should detail how best to control your asbestos-containing materials, including how often you should re-inspect it. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 suggests that checks should occur “as far as reasonably practicable” but of course this changes for each situation.
The condition of your ACMs is a large contributing factor to how often they should be checked. For example, if your ACMs are likely to deteriorate quickly due to certain factors, they will need to be re-inspected far more frequently to ensure they do not pose any serious risk to health. ACMs that are present but in a good condition may need to be checked far less.
The location and building type will also feed into this. If the ACMs have been found in a busy, frequented area then the likelihood of visitors to your building coming into contact with it is heightened. Similarly, if your building is a block of flats, school or healthcare facility it is more likely to have a higher number of visitors.
Can I undertake the re-inspection myself?
It is recommended that you enlist the help of a trained asbestos professional to undertake your asbestos re-inspections. It is paramount that when choosing your asbestos re-inspection company you understand the complexity of the works required. A company with many years of experience dealing with complex projects and with relevant qualifications will be key.
It is not advised that you try and undertake the re-inspections yourself unless you are trained and competent.
Book your asbestos re-inspection today
Pillars Environmental are a team of dedicated asbestos professionals, helping duty holders across the North West remain compliant with legislation. With offices in Lancashire, Cheshire and Greater Manchester our experts can help with any re-inspection needs. Get in touch below for your free quote.
