As the duty holder of any non-domestic premises and certain parts of domestic premises, it is your responsibility to carry out inspections and ensure no hazardous materials or substances are present. This information needs to be recorded on a register for the life of the premises and should be made available to any visiting contractor to prevent accidental exposure.
To ensure this work is done properly, it is recommended that you consider hiring asbestos consultants. These guys perform site audits to identify the location, extent, accessibility, type and condition of hazardous substances like asbestos. As part of the service, good asbestos consultants include the location and quantity of each substance, methods for monitoring the substance and methods of removal, handling, storage and disposal.
A good consultant will also carry out clearance inspections at the end of the demolition or
removal work.
Ideally, asbestos consultants should be hired independently of any asbestos removal contractors to ensure there is no conflict of interest or bias in the audit and subsequent reports.
In choosing asbestos consultants it is recommended they have a strong background in:-
- Building architecture and construction
- Mechanical systems layout and operation
- Knowledge of historical use and locations of asbestos
- Abatement options and techniques
- Sample testing and results interpretation
- Occupations health and safety and hygiene
- Asbestos clearance criteria
- Understanding of asbestos related diseases
- Knowledge of relevant codes and practice standards
If you intend to use the consultant to supervise any removal works, it is also important they show solid experience in project management, particularly in relation to asbestos removal.
If you are looking for quality asbestos consultants in your area contact your local authorities for some suggestions. Otherwise look in the Yellow Pages and ask for references from previous clients.
