Asbestos Services

Bulk Sampling

Bulk sample analysis involves the examination of a representative sample of a material thought to contain asbestos.

The sample is initially examined by eye, and then a more detailed examination is undertaken using a low power microscope. Fibres observed in these examinations are categorised on the observable physical characteristics and, on this basis, are drawn from the sample and placed in the appropriate Refractive Index (RI) liquid.

Once mounted in the correct RI liquid, the fibres are then positively identified as one of the six regulated asbestos types on the basis of their detailed optical properties using polarised light microscopy.

As necessary, one or more representative sub-samples may be prepared for further examination. A good example of the need to take sub-samples is with vinyl floor tiles, where the tile itself might contain asbestos or the adhesive layer might also contain asbestos.

Asbestos Management

Knight Surveys Ltd. provide a complete asbestos management service to ensure that clients fully comply with your duty to manage under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

This involves not only locating the presence of asbestos and carrying out any remedial actions that are required, but knowing how to manage the materials on an on-going basis. We are able to manage all stages of any asbestos remediation work which is required as part of the project.

This management process involves the following:

Priority Assessments – the likelihood of an incident occurring with each asbestos containing material

Risk Assessments – the severity of risk combined with the likelihood of risk

Asbestos Management Plan

PRIORITY ASSESSMENTS

Initially this requires a material assessment. This will tell you the Severity of the Risk posed by each of the suspect materials. The next step is another test called the Priority Assessment, which will establish the Likelihood of an incident occurring with each of the ACMs.

The Priority Assessment must be carried out, at least in part, by the Duty Holder because, while the Duty Holder can nominate someone else to do all or part of the work, the legal responsibility cannot be delegated. It can be useful for the person who carried out the survey to assist with the Priority Assessment.

RISK ASSESSMENTS

The Severity of the risk of each Asbestos containing material, established in the Material Assessment, is used with the Likelihood of the risk, established by the Priority Assessment, to generate individual Risk Assessments for each material.

The Risk Assessments can then be used to decide what action to take, from immediate removal to annual monitoring.

ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PLAN

The Asbestos Management Plan is produced from the actions detailed in the Risk Assessment. This plan will include details of what is to happen to each of the asbestos containing material, when it is going to happen, who is responsible for each action and to whom those people are accountable.

The Management Plan will also detail the various types of training that is required, which members of staff need which training and who is to provide it. The Plan will also detail the Permit to Work Scheme and detail the Monitoring and Reviewing of the Asbestos Survey and the Management Plan.

MONITOR AND REVIEW (REINSPECTIONS)

If your asbestos survey and register shows that your building contains ACMs, then these materials will have to be reviewed, typically, annually.

Usually this involves a reinspection of the ACMs identified in the asbestos register to check the Material Assessment is still applicable. This process is then followed through the Priority Assessment, Risk Assessments and Management Plan, to ensure that everything is up to date and operational.

Qualitative Face Fit Testing

Completed by Gemma Ackers

Face Fit Testing should be carried out on all individuals to ensure the RPE is suitable by means of a tight fitting face seal.

We are able to visit your premises for groups of employees or we have two centres located at:-

• Houldsworth Business and Arts Centre, Houldsworth Street,
  Reddish SK5 6DA
• Carrington Business Park, Manchester Road,
  Carrington M31 4DD

Both centres are located within easy reach of the motorway networks.

RPE fit testing should be conducted by a competent person and you should take steps to ensure that person who carries out the fit test is appropriately trained, qualified and experienced, this is where we are leading the way.

Contact us now to book a fitting session.

Convenient locations near to major motorways.

Please call 0161 333 0767 or click here to post an enquiry.