28 Jan 2025
Given that asbestos was banned in Ireland in 2000, you might expect the dangers associated with the hazardous material to be on the decline. However, that’s not the case, as it still lingers in the approximate 80% of buildings in Ireland that were built in the 20th century.
Any property that was built or refurbished before the ban could still house asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), posing a serious risk to life if disturbed. Exposure is linked to asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, which is why an asbestos survey is necessary before any subsequent work on these buildings can commence.
So, Who Needs an Asbestos Survey?
If you own, manage, or are responsible for a commercial, industrial, or residential building constructed in Ireland before 2000, you should consider an asbestos survey. This is especially important before renovation, demolition, or maintenance work, as disturbing ACMs can release dangerous fibres into the air.
In Ireland, there are two primary types of asbestos surveys:
Management Survey – This is a standard survey carried out to identify and assess the presence of asbestos in a building. It is essential for ongoing property management to ensure that asbestos materials remain undisturbed and in a safe condition.
Refurbishment/Demolition Survey – If any construction, renovation, or demolition work is planned, this more intrusive survey is required to locate asbestos materials that could be disturbed during the project.
How Do You Arrange an Asbestos Survey in Ireland?
Only licensed and accredited professionals can legally carry out asbestos surveys. As such, you should look for surveyors certified by recognised bodies such as the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) or reputable environmental consultancies in Ireland.
Of course, you could find a professional like this yourself, but the easiest way is to trust OHSS’s asbestos surveying services for both residential and commercial properties in Ireland. Our expert analysts can conduct thorough inspections to identify and assess the presence of ACMs or lack thereof, while also ensuring safety and compliance with all relevant regulations.
Always Trust the Experts When It Comes to Asbestos
An asbestos survey is a vital step in ensuring the safety of building occupants and workers and it represents just one way in which we’ve been protecting people across Ireland from the dangers of asbestos since 2001. Complemented by our asbestos risk assessment and fibre monitoring services, our full offering ensures that you’re always in very good hands.
To find out more about this or our occupational hygiene services, take a good look around our website. Alternatively, to speak directly to our team about your needs, just call 01 6905907 and we’ll be happy to help however we can.