hidden
We have many years of experience in the industry.
We have many years of experience in the industry.
Then please contact us, we would love to hear from and give any advice that you may need. The information you supply us will be kept in the strictest confidence and will not be passed on to any third parties.
Read More
Asbestos, a mineral known for its heat resistance and durability, was once extensively used in various construction materials due to its favourable properties. However, it has since been recognised as a major health hazard, linked to severe respiratory illnesses and cancer. To ensure public safety and compliance with asbestos regulations, Leeds has taken significant steps towards asbestos surveying. This comprehensive surveying process is vital to identify, assess, and manage asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) within buildings, thereby safeguarding the health of its residents and visitors.
Leeds's rich architectural heritage includes numerous buildings constructed during the time when asbestos was widely used in the construction industry. Before its dangers were fully understood, asbestos was integrated into roofing, insulation, flooring, and even decorative features. As a result, a significant portion of Leeds's buildings may contain asbestos, posing potential risks to occupants and workers.
Asbestos exposure can lead to severe health conditions, such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. These diseases often have long latency periods, making them challenging to diagnose and treat. Consequently, national and international agencies, including the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the World Health Organisation (WHO), have implemented stringent regulations to control asbestos-related hazards.
To identify and assess the presence of ACMs within buildings, asbestos surveying is crucial. Surveyors carry out comprehensive inspections, identifying potential sources of asbestos and determining its condition. This information allows building owners, occupants, and management to develop appropriate management plans and take necessary steps to mitigate health risks effectively.
In Leeds, two primary types of asbestos surveys are conducted:
a) Management Surveys: These surveys aim to identify and assess the presence of ACMs within buildings. The surveyors will take representative samples and maintain a register of all identified ACMs. Building owners then use this information to create a comprehensive asbestos management plan.
b) Refurbishment and Demolition Surveys: Conducted before major refurbishment or demolition work, these surveys are more intrusive and aim to identify any hidden ACMs that might be disturbed during construction activities. This information is crucial for ensuring proper safety measures are implemented during such work.
Leeds emphasises the importance of engaging qualified and competent asbestos surveyors to carry out these inspections. Such professionals possess the necessary knowledge, training, and equipment to conduct surveys safely and accurately. They adhere to guidelines outlined in HSE's "Surveying, Sampling, and Assessment of Asbestos-Containing Materials" (HSG 264) document.
When ACMs are identified, effective asbestos management becomes paramount. Building owners and managers must decide whether to remove or manage the asbestos in situ. Removal is considered the most effective way to eliminate the risk, but it must be conducted by licensed asbestos removal contractors. In cases where removal is not practical, safe encapsulation and regular monitoring are implemented.
The significance of asbestos surveying extends to Leeds's public buildings. Schools, hospitals, government offices, and commercial premises are subject to these inspections. Ensuring the safety of staff, students, and the public is a top priority, and regular surveys are conducted to maintain a safe environment.
Asbestos surveying comes with challenges, such as accessing difficult-to-reach areas and correctly identifying asbestos types. However, advancements in technology, such as remote inspection tools and advanced lab analysis techniques, have improved the accuracy and efficiency of surveys.
Beyond professional surveyors, it is essential for construction workers, maintenance staff, and anyone working in buildings to receive asbestos awareness training. This education empowers individuals to recognise potential ACMs, take precautionary measures, and report any concerns promptly.
Asbestos surveying plays a crucial role in safeguarding public health and ensuring compliance with asbestos regulations in Leeds. By identifying and managing ACMs, the city takes significant steps towards reducing the risks associated with asbestos exposure. Through ongoing vigilance, commitment to safety, and advancements in surveying technology, Leeds remains at the forefront of asbestos management, providing a safer environment for its residents and visitors alike.
In recognition of her activism on behalf of individuals who suffered from asbestos-related diseases, a blue plaque has been installed close to June Hancock's previous residence in Leeds.
Hancock, who was raised in proximity to the JW Roberts asbestos factory in Armley, became one of numerous people impacted by the dangerous dust emitted by the facility. Her groundbreaking lawsuit against the factory in 1994 paved the way for justice for countless others. The Leeds Civic Society has commemorated her efforts with a plaque near her old home on Salisbury View.
Address: 30 Salisbury View, Armley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS12 2AU