Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that has been used in a variety of products, including building materials, insulation, and automotive parts, because of its durability, tensile strength, and ability to resist heat and chemicals. However, Asbestos has also been identified as a human carcinogen, meaning it can cause cancer. When inhaled, the fibers of Asbestos can become lodged in the lungs and can lead to serious health problems, including mesothelioma, a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, as well as lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. As a result, the use of Asbestos has been heavily regulated in many countries.
There are several ways to identify Asbestos in materials:
Visual inspection: Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) often have a characteristic appearance, and an experienced Asbestos professional may be able to identify ACMs by sight. However, this method is not always reliable, as Asbestos fibers may be hidden within a material or mixed with other substances.
Sampling and testing: The most accurate way to identify Asbestos is to collect a sample of the material in question and have it tested in a laboratory. This can be done by taking a small piece of the material and sending it to a laboratory for analysis, or by using a portable Asbestos testing kit that allows the sample to be collected and tested.
Expert assessment: Asbestos professionals, such as Asbestos abatement contractors or industrial hygienists, may be able to identify Asbestos based on their knowledge and experience. They may also use specialized equipment, such as PLM microscopes and SEM and TEM techniques to help identify Asbestos.
It is important to note that Asbestos can only be definitively identified through laboratory testing, as it cannot be accurately identified through visual inspection or expert assessment alone. If you suspect that a material may contain Asbestos, it is important to have it tested by a qualified professional.
There are several types of Asbestos surveys that can be conducted to identify the presence of Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in a building or other structure:
Management survey: A management survey is a comprehensive survey that is conducted to identify all ACMs in a building, assess their condition, and determine the appropriate course of action for managing them. This type of survey is typically conducted on a whole building or an entire area within a building.
Refurbishment and demolition survey: A refurbishment and demolition survey is a more detailed survey that is conducted before any refurbishment or demolition work is carried out on a building. This type of survey is designed to identify all ACMs that may be disturbed or removed during the work.
Reassessment survey: A reassessment survey is conducted to reassess the condition of ACMs that have been previously identified and managed in a building. This type of survey is typically conducted when there are significant changes to a building or when ACMs are found to be in poor condition.
Specific or limited survey: A specific or limited survey is a focused survey that is conducted to identify ACMs in a specific area or on a specific type of material. This type of survey may be conducted when only a specific area or material needs to be assessed, rather than the entire building.
It is important to note that the type of Asbestos survey that is appropriate will depend on the specific needs and circumstances of the building or structure being surveyed. A qualified Asbestos professional should be consulted to determine the most appropriate type of survey for a given situation.
If you have any Asbestos related concerns, contact us to see how Anthesis Consulting Middle East can help you:
Charles Faulkner (Head of Environment, Health and Safety, and Asbestos Team Leader)
Phone: +971 (0) 50 5541 320
Email: Asbestos@anthesisgroup.com