Asbestos is the name given to a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals widely used in the manufacture of various building and refractory materials.
However, it has been described as a significant health hazard. Respiratory diseases associated with exposure to asbestos include asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. Therefore, to avoid such risks, it is essential to incorporate asbestos surveys as an important component of building security measures. Asbestos condition surveys indicate the location and condition of asbestos-containing chemicals to ensure that they can be effectively managed and/or removed to protect human health.
Here are the benefits:
Identifying asbestos-containing materials
The survey is conducted to ensure that a correct confirmation of the presence of asbestos in a building is obtained. Many buildings constructed before the 1980s may contain asbestos in insulation, flooring, ceilings or other structural material. In the following ways, the survey provides an important overview for structured risk management as it aims to identify the exact locations and types of asbestos. If this information is not obtained, the asbestos will remain invisible and may still pose a health risk to people occupying the building.
mitigating health risks
Regular surveys help reduce the various health problems caused by exposure to asbestos. If asbestos materials are tampered with or destroyed, fibres can be released into the environment and cause health problems if inhaled. World Health Organization organized The World Health Organization estimates that approximately 120,000 people die each year from asbestos-related diseases. These exposures are prevented through asbestos surveys that enable appropriate management or removal of asbestos, thus greatly reducing the risks to building occupants.
Required Audit
Asbestos surveys are also mandatory for compliance reasons. Different countries have comprehensive measures and policies regarding the use of asbestos. For example, in the United States, the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) requires schools to conduct asbestos inspections and develop management plans. Similarly, the Asbestos Control Regulations 2012 in the United Kingdom provide provisions for the management of asbestos in non-residential buildings. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in serious legal and financial consequences, making asbestos surveys a priority, not just as a health issue but also as a legal issue.
Economic benefits
Although asbestos surveys are a one-time expense, they provide multiple economic benefits. It is wise for companies to identify and deal with asbestos properly because it is costly in terms of health and legal compensation. Similarly, it can improve property prices and the marketability of buildings. From a company’s perspective, cost savings can eliminate many of the costs associated with illness, which can provide a healthier environment for the company where workers are more productive.
Conclusion
Asbestos surveys protect people’s health, meet legal requirements, and provide economic benefits. These surveys enable asbestos-containing materials to be identified and properly handled, helping to avoid the severe health effects of exposure to these materials. Given the high risks and major limitations that exist, proper and frequent asbestos inspections are critical for property owners and managers. The energy required to fund these surveys is well spent on health, safety, and the future prosperity of the company.
