In This Guide
Pre-Survey Planning and Site Assessment
Before the physical survey, your surveyor will gather information about the building including age, construction type, previous surveys, maintenance records, and planned activities. This desk study helps target the survey effectively and identify areas requiring particular attention.
Physical Inspection and Sampling
The surveyor systematically inspects the building, examining materials and taking representative samples for laboratory analysis. Sampling is designed to identify all material types present without unnecessary duplication. Expect sampling from ceiling tiles, floor tiles, pipe insulation, textured coatings, and other suspect materials.
Laboratory Analysis
Samples are analysed by a UKAS-accredited laboratory using polarised light microscopy (PLM) and other techniques. Analysis identifies whether asbestos is present and, if so, the type (chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite). Results typically take 2-5 working days, though urgent turnaround is available.
Risk Assessment and Prioritisation
The survey includes risk assessment of each ACM found, considering material type, condition, surface treatment, asbestos type, and potential for disturbance. This assessment generates priority scores that guide management decisions. Higher scores indicate materials requiring more urgent attention.
Survey Report Contents
Your survey report will include an executive summary, scope and limitations, detailed findings with photographs, laboratory certificates, floor plans showing ACM locations, risk assessments for each material, and recommendations. The report forms the basis of your asbestos register.
The Asbestos Register
The register is a summary document extracted from the survey report, designed for day-to-day reference and information sharing. It lists all ACMs, their locations, condition, risk ratings, and recommended actions. The register must be kept up to date and made available to anyone who needs it.
Management Plan Requirements
Following the survey, you need a management plan that sets out how identified ACMs will be managed. This includes monitoring schedules, procedures for safe working, emergency procedures, re-inspection intervals, and responsibilities. The management plan is a living document that must be reviewed and updated.
Need Expert Guidance?
Our BOHS-qualified surveyors can help you understand your specific requirements and ensure full compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a management survey take?
Survey duration depends on building size and complexity. A small office might take 2-3 hours; a large commercial building could take several days. Laboratory results add 2-5 working days for the complete report.
Will the survey be disruptive to building occupants?
Management surveys are designed to be minimally disruptive. Surveyors work around occupants and access requirements. Some areas may need temporary clearance for sampling. The surveyor will discuss access arrangements in advance.
What if some areas cannot be accessed during the survey?
Inaccessible areas will be noted in the report with recommendations for future investigation. These areas should be presumed to contain asbestos until proven otherwise. The duty holder must arrange access when possible.
How long is a management survey valid?
There is no fixed expiry date, but surveys should be reviewed whenever circumstances change. Re-inspection surveys (typically every 12-24 months) monitor condition. Full new surveys may be needed after significant building changes.
What qualifications should the surveyor have?
Surveyors should hold BOHS P402 as a minimum. The company should have quality management systems, professional indemnity insurance, and use UKAS-accredited laboratories. Ask for evidence of qualifications and accreditations.