When planning a demolition, safety should always be the top priority. While many factors contribute to a successful and secure demolition, one crucial step stands out—conducting an asbestos survey. This process is not just a precautionary measure; it’s a vital step to protect workers, surrounding communities, and the environment. Let’s explore why carrying out an asbestos survey is essential before starting any demolition project.
Understanding Asbestos and Why It Matters
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials due to its durability and fire-resistant properties. Unfortunately, research has shown that asbestos exposure poses severe health risks, including lung diseases such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and even lung cancer. Despite being banned in many countries, asbestos still exists in older structures, hidden in roofing, insulation, flooring, and siding materials.
During a demolition, disturbances to materials containing asbestos can release harmful fibers into the air. These airborne fibers are microscopic and can travel significant distances, putting not only your crew but also nearby residents and workers at risk. This makes identifying asbestos before demolition imperative.
Benefits of Conducting an Asbestos Survey
- Protects Health and Well-being
The primary benefit of an asbestos survey is ensuring the health and safety of everyone involved. Demolition generates dust and debris, and without knowing if asbestos is present, workers might unknowingly inhale hazardous fibers. Early identification through a survey allows for safe handling and removal, significantly reducing exposure risks.
Not conducting a survey could result in widespread fiber release, leading to dire long-term health consequences. For communities and neighboring properties, containing asbestos prevents accidental contamination that could endanger the lives of others.
- Compliance with Regulations
Many regions require asbestos testing and surveys before demolishing or remodeling a building. By conducting an asbestos survey, you ensure compliance with local laws and regulations. This helps you avoid legal troubles, hefty fines, and project delays. Demonstrating adherence to safety regulations also boosts your reputation as a responsible entity, underscoring your commitment to ethical practices and employee welfare.
- Avoids Unnecessary Costs
Overlooking asbestos during demolition preparations can have significant financial repercussions. If asbestos is discovered mid-project, all work will need to halt until testing, removal, and containment procedures are carried out. This delay can drastically increase labor costs, equipment expenses, and operational downtime—expenses that could have been prevented through an initial asbestos survey.
Additionally, handling asbestos without proper precautions increases the likelihood of health claims or lawsuits, further amplifying financial risk. An asbestos survey is a cost-effective preventative measure.
- Enables Safe Disposal
Part of dealing with asbestos safely involves ensuring it is disposed of correctly. An asbestos survey identifies where asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) exist, enabling safe extraction and transportation to licensed disposal sites. This prevents improper disposal, which can result in environmental damage and regulatory violations.
- Facilitates Efficient Demolition Planning
By understanding whether asbestos is present and where it’s located, contractors can plan a safer and more efficient demolition process. With this information, workers know which areas to approach cautiously, which materials need special attention, and how much time and resources are required for removal. Efficient planning reduces risks, enhances workflow, and ensures the project stays on schedule.
- Contributes to Sustainable Practices
The environmental impact of demolitions is often an overlooked concern. By responsibly identifying, handling, and removing asbestos, you minimize its harmful effects on the environment. Safe asbestos disposal prevents fiber release into the air and contamination of soil and waterways, aligning your project with eco-friendly and sustainable practices.