What is a Management Asbestos Survey?
A Management Survey is used to locate, as far as reasonably practicable, asbestos- containing materials (ACMs) within a building that will continue in normal use. It records where materials have been identified, the type of material and its condition, so that the building can be managed safely day to day.
It is not intended to cover areas that will be disturbed by construction work. Where refurbishment or demolition is planned, a more intrusive survey is required.
When is a Management Survey required?
- The premises are occupied and will continue to be used normally
- Routine maintenance and minor repairs take place within the building
- No asbestos information currently exists for the property
- Existing information is incomplete, undated or unreliable
- A property is being acquired, let or added to a portfolio
Who is responsible for managing asbestos?
Responsibility usually sits with the person or organisation responsible for maintaining or repairing non-domestic premises — often the owner, landlord, managing agent or occupier, depending on the terms of the lease.
If you are unsure who holds the duty for your property, OJ can talk through the arrangement before a survey is arranged.
What areas of the property are inspected?
The surveyor inspects accessible areas of the building, including areas that are reasonably reachable during normal occupation.
- Occupied rooms, circulation areas and welfare facilities
- Plant rooms, risers and service cupboards
- Accessible ceiling voids and roof spaces
- External elements where accessible
- Areas subject to routine maintenance
What does the survey involve?
The surveyor attends the property, inspects accessible areas, records suspected asbestos-containing materials and assesses their condition. Sampling may be carried out where appropriate. Disruption to occupiers is kept to a minimum and access arrangements are agreed in advance.
What will the report include?
The survey information sets out where materials were identified, their condition and recommended actions, supported by photographic records and location information. Report content can vary depending on the property and the scope agreed.
What happens if asbestos is identified?
Identifying asbestos does not automatically mean it must be removed. Materials in good condition and unlikely to be disturbed can often be managed in place, with monitoring and clear labelling or recording. The survey information will set out the recommended next steps for each material identified.
How does this support your asbestos management plan?
The findings provide the factual basis for an asbestos register and management plan — what is present, where it is, what condition it is in, and what should happen next. This information can then be shared with maintenance staff and contractors before work is carried out.
When should the survey be reviewed or re-inspected?
Asbestos information is normally reviewed periodically so that condition records stay current, and updated if the building changes or work is carried out. OJ can discuss a suitable review interval for your property.
Why choose OJ?
- Straightforward advice on which survey is appropriate before work begins
- Clear reporting written for property professionals, not just specialists
- Experience working around occupied commercial premises
- Nationwide asbestos surveying across the UK
- Part of the wider OJ Health & Safety consultancy
