What is an asbestos survey and why are they important?
An asbestos survey is an important process carried out in buildings to identify the presence and condition of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). These surveys are essential for ensuring the safety of occupants and for complying with health and safety regulations, as asbestos can pose serious health risks if disturbed.
Recent concerns over Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) have heightened the need for structural inspections to determine whether this material, which has a limited lifespan and potential for failure, is present in public and private buildings. This case study outlines the survey that we carried out at a medical practice, highlighting both asbestos observations and the assessment of roof and ceiling structures.
How can we help?
The works requested included a RAAC survey, specifically requiring the engineer to identify any flat roof type spaces and to inspect above false ceilings to establish whether the construction was timber or concrete. This inspection was also intended to provide reassurance to the practice about the nature of the building’s construction and any associated risks, while ensuring compliance with current health and safety obligations.
The building we investigated was a two-storey, brick-built property with a pitched roof. Both floors were fully inspected as part of the assessment, with particular attention paid to areas where RAAC or concrete panels might be present. The inspection confirmed that no concrete was identified within the building structure.
During the course of the survey, the engineer did identify the presence of asbestos within the textured decorative coatings (commonly known as Artex). The asbestos found in this material does not pose an immediate hazard provided it remains undisturbed. This finding was explained to the client with the important caveat that any future refurbishment, drilling, or disturbance of the coatings would require further management and safe handling in accordance with Control of Asbestos Regulations.
Further inspection of the roof was carried out, and the engineer was able to confirm that the roof structure is timber-framed. No evidence of RAAC or other concrete elements was identified. This finding provided reassurance to the client that the building does not pose the immediate risks associated with RAAC structural failure, which has been the subject of increased regulatory and media scrutiny.
What Improvements Can Be Made For Future Management?
It was noted during the survey that the asbestos register for the building was not available for review at the time of inspection. This represents an administrative gap that should be addressed to ensure accurate record keeping and compliance with statutory requirements. The photographs taken during the visit support the survey findings and provide a clear record of the inspection. The combination of a confirmed timber roof, absence of RAAC, and manageable asbestos presence ensures that the building can continue to be occupied safely, provided asbestos management procedures are observed.
