Asbestos, a once widely used construction material, has a dark legacy due to its severe health risks. Often found in older buildings, asbestos exposure can lead to fatal diseases like mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. If you own, manage, or work in a building constructed before 2000, conducting an asbestos survey is not just a safety measure—it’s a necessity. Here’s how an asbestos survey can protect lives and contribute to a healthier environment.
What Is an Asbestos Survey?
An asbestos survey is a detailed inspection aimed at identifying the presence and condition of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) within a building or property. It evaluates how much asbestos is present, where it is located, and whether it poses a risk to human health. There are typically two types of surveys:
Management Surveys assess the day-to-day condition of asbestos in a building to ensure safe occupancy.
Renovation and Demolition Surveys are performed before major construction or demolition work to prevent harmful exposure during those activities.
Properly conducted surveys not only safeguard occupants but also ensure compliance with regulatory standards designed to protect public health.
Why Is an Asbestos Survey Necessary?
Although asbestos use has been banned in many regions for decades, its prevalence in older buildings remains a concern. Studies show that 90,730 deaths in 2019 alone were linked to asbestos-related diseases globally. Without proper measures, this number is set to increase due to the long latency period of asbestos-related illnesses, which can span 20–50 years. Ignoring asbestos risks today could mean serious health crises in the future.
Benefits of an Asbestos Survey
Conducting an asbestos survey yields significant benefits, both immediate and long-term. Here’s why it’s vital for health, safety, and peace of mind:
- Protects Occupants from Dangerous Exposure
Fibers released from damaged asbestos materials pose a major health risk. Once airborne, asbestos fibers can be easily inhaled, causing irreversible damage to the lungs and other internal organs. An asbestos survey determines areas of risk, helping property owners take timely action to mitigate exposure. This proactive measure could save lives by preventing devastating health impacts.
- Ensures Compliance with Legal Standards
Many countries enforce strict regulations regarding the handling and management of asbestos. Property owners are required to identify ACMs and implement control measures to minimize risk. By completing an asbestos survey, you ensure compliance with these laws, avoiding potential fines, legal liabilities, and reputational damage.
- Reduces Health and Financial Costs
Treating asbestos-related diseases costs billions annually worldwide. These costs often fall on public health systems and individuals. A single asbestos-related illness can cost a family hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical bills. Conducting an asbestos survey now not only prevents health issues but also avoids the financial burden associated with managing exposure-related crises later.
- Facilitates Safe Renovation and Demolition
When renovating or demolishing an older building, asbestos fibers can easily be disturbed. An asbestos survey identifies ACMs beforehand, enabling trained professionals to remove or secure them safely. This reduces risk to workers and ensures projects proceed without unforeseen health hazards.
- Promotes Peace of Mind
Having an asbestos-free building boosts confidence for property owners, tenants, and stakeholders. Whether the building is residential or commercial, knowing that every precaution has been taken for safety fosters trust and security among all occupants.
