Asbestos

Question 1

How do you manage asbestos risk?

Answer 1

At Shear’s Way, I recommended an asbestos refurbishment and demolition survey due to the building’s age. This ensured compliance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

Question 2

What are your responsibilities regarding asbestos?

Answer 2

To identify the risk, ensure surveys are undertaken, and prevent exposure by following appropriate procedures.

Question 3

What is asbestos?

Answer 3

A group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals previously used in construction for insulation, fire resistance, and durability.

Question 4

Why is asbestos dangerous?

Answer 4

When disturbed, fibres become airborne and can be inhaled, leading to diseases such as:
• Asbestosis
• Lung cancer
• Mesothelioma

Question 5

What legislation governs asbestos in the UK?

Answer 5

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

Question 6

What are the main types of asbestos?

Answer 6

Chrysotile (white)
• Amosite (brown)
• Crocidolite (blue)

Question 7

Where is asbestos commonly found in buildings?

Answer 7

• Insulation boards (AIB)
• Pipe lagging
• Sprayed coatings
• Floor tiles
• Roof sheets (cement)
• Ceiling tiles

Question 8

What is the duty to manage asbestos?

Answer 8

A legal duty under Regulation 4 requiring those responsible for non-domestic premises to identify, manage, and control asbestos risk.

Question 9

What are the two main types of asbestos survey?

Answer 9

1. Management Survey – identifies asbestos during normal occupation
   
   2. Refurbishment & Demolition (R&D) Survey – required before intrusive works

Question 10

When is an R&D survey required?

Answer 10

Before any refurbishment or demolition works that could disturb the building fabric.

Question 11

What is an asbestos register?

Answer 11

A document recording the location, condition, and risk of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).

Question 12

What is an asbestos management plan?

Answer 12

A plan outlining how ACMs will be monitored and managed to prevent exposure.

Question 13

What would you do if you suspect asbestos during an inspection?

Answer 13

I would stop the inspection in that area, avoid disturbing the material, and recommend an asbestos survey by a qualified specialist.

Question 14

How do you manage asbestos risk on a project?

Answer 14

By ensuring appropriate surveys are undertaken, reviewing findings, and ensuring control measures are implemented before works commence.

Question 15

Can asbestos be left in place?

Answer 15

Yes — if it is in good condition and not likely to be disturbed, it can be managed in situ with regular monitoring.

Question 16

When must asbestos be removed?

Answer 16

When it is damaged, deteriorating, or will be disturbed by planned works.

Question 17

Who is allowed to remove asbestos?

Answer 17

Licensed contractors are required for higher-risk asbestos (e.g. insulation, AIB), while some lower-risk materials may be removed by trained non-licensed contractors.

Question 18

What would you do if a contractor starts work and discovers asbestos?

Answer 18

Stop the works immediately, secure the area, and arrange for a specialist assessment. Works should not resume until it is safe.

Question 19

What if the client wants to proceed without a survey to save time?

Answer 19

I would strongly advise against it, explaining legal requirements and health risks. Proceeding would breach regulations and expose parties to significant liability.

Question 20

What if asbestos is identified mid-project?

Answer 20

Stop affected works, assess the risk, engage a licensed contractor if required, and review programme and cost implications.

Question 21

What are the risks of not managing asbestos properly?

Answer 21

Serious health risks, legal penalties, project delays, and reputational damage.

Question 22

How does asbestos impact programme and cost?

Answer 22

It can cause delays due to surveys, removal works, and compliance procedures, as well as increased project costs.

Question 23

Tell me about your experience with asbestos.

Answer 23

At Shear’s Way, I identified the risk of asbestos due to the building’s age and recommended an asbestos refurbishment and demolition survey prior to tender. This ensured compliance with regulations and allowed risks to be managed before construction.

Question 24

Why was that important?

Answer 24

It prevented unexpected delays, ensured contractor safety, and allowed accurate pricing and planning.

Question 25

What is the biggest mistake surveyors make with asbestos?

Answer 25

Assuming asbestos is not present or failing to commission the correct survey before works.

Question 26

What is your role as a surveyor regarding asbestos?

Answer 26

To identify risk, ensure appropriate surveys are undertaken, and ensure compliance with regulations — not to diagnose or remove asbestos myself.