HSG 264 and Refurbishment and Demolition Surveys – A Brief Overview

Posted on March 31, 2010 with No Comments

Refurbishment and Demolition Surveys have been carried out as ‘Type 3’ surveys since the introduction of MDHS 100 in July 2001. This document provided advice and methodology for surveyors engaged in all asbestos survey types. However, the guidance for Type 3 Surveys was nominal which inevitably led to varying degrees of inspection procedures by the surveying companies.

The Health & Safety Executive have now issued Asbestos: The Survey Guide (HSG264) which was published on January 29^th January 2010. The new guidance is specifically aimed at surveyors who carry out asbestos surveys and those who commission the surveys. (Client / Duty Holders)

Cheap surveys! Exactly as it says on the tin!

Posted on March 31, 2010 with 4 Comments

Asbestos awareness has grown due to the remarkable increase in media and press coverage highlighting the potential health risks this naturally resulted in an increasing demand for asbestos surveys. Initially the flood gates open for every man and their granny to complete the 4 day P402 course and pass the multiple choice test that would qualify them to be a  Asbestos Surveyor and with very low overheads OMB’s (one man bands) started popping up here, there and everywhere, offering rock bottom priced cigarette packet asbestos surveys.

During my time in the industry, I have come to expect that approximately 50 percent of the time I will read a report that is substandard. More often than not, this isn’t due to any inability or laziness of the surveyor, but due to inexperience. Asbestos can be found in many hidden places and in many different materials. Experience in where to look and what to look for, is the crucial difference that make a great asbestos surveyor. Even then, it can never be guaranteed that all asbestos materials will be located, but you do stand a much better chance…

Demolition and Dismantling – Demolition/Refurbishment Surveys

Posted on March 31, 2010 with No Comments

All Change on Asbestos Front:

The rules governing the commissioning and carrying out of asbestos surveys has changed; and demolition contractors need to be aware of the new rules, according to Spectra Analysis Services’ Angela Chouaib.

Demolition and Dismantling magazine

To read the full article, download Demolition and Dismantling magazine and turn to Page 40

A Change is as good as a rest – Angela Chouaib moves to Spectra Analysis

Posted on March 1, 2010 with 2 Comments

As the Asbestos Industry morphs to accommodate the ever changing needs of the economy and clients; I too have also take steps to secure my future within the Industry. I proudly accepted a position in the Management Team at Spectra Analysis and I am extremely excited and positive about the challenges that face both me and the Industry as we come out of this gloomy Recession!