Asbestos survey,
risk assessment and
clearances
Asbestos is a collective name for minerals composed of long, thin, fibrous crystals. In the past, asbestos was widely used as a building material because of its unique properties – strong, durable and heat resistant. Commonly-used types are white asbestos (chrysotile), blue asbestos (crocidolite) and brown asbestos (amosite). It was not until later that the health hazards of asbestos fibers were discovered. To prevent health risks, expert asbestos surveys and asbestos removal in accordance with the latest legislation and guidelines are indispensable.
In many cases, having an asbestos survey conducted by a certified company such as SGI Compliance is mandatory. This applies to demolition or renovation of buildings constructed prior to 1994. Or if a property owner wishes to have asbestos removed. The asbestos survey may also be part of a Risk Inventory & Evaluation (RI&E). Asbestos fibers are not perceptible to the naked eye. Yet based on their experience, SGI Compliance’ asbestos experts can identify suspect asbestos-related situations. They subsequently draw up an inspection plan providing a structured approach for the on-site asbestos survey. All the asbestos-containing materials are identified and (air) samples are analysed in SGI Compliance’ asbestos laboratories. In our reports we describe our findings in detail.
Asbestos risk assessments are subject to the NEN 2991 standards. A NEN 2991 exposure survey is recommended in case of suspected asbestos-related risks. Examples are non-bonded or damaged applications, asbestos emergencies or fire. A NEN 2991 exposure survey objectively identifies asbestos risks. SGI Compliance is certified for conducting NEN 2991 exposure surveys and has the right people, knowledge and equipment, including Scanning Electron Microscopes in our accredited laboratories.
The asbestos survey is conducted in accordance with the Dutch Certification Scheme for Process Certificates for Asbestos Surveying and Removal. Based on the results a risk class is allocated. This determines whether an asbestos validation survey for potential downscaling is advisable. Validation survey investigates the potential concentrations of asbestos fibers released during removal work, to determine whether the work may be allocated a lower risk class and safety regime. The SCi-548 protocol governs the assessment of airborne asbestos concentrations during asbestos removal at project level. SGI Compliance’ asbestos experts adopt a structured approach when conducting the validation survey: from baseline and validation measurements to cleaning, final inspection and clearance, in accordance with the ISO 14966, NEN 2939 and NEN 2990 quality standards. In our reports we describe our findings in detail.
The limits for exposure to asbestos fibers in the workplace were lowered in 2017. Only two risk classes remain. Class 1 covers work involving fiber concentrations below the limit and class 2 covers work exceeding the limits. Class 2A covers amphibole asbestos. For this class, the final measurement must conform with specific requirements and can only be performed using SGI Compliance’ unique Scanning Electron Microscopy method. The final inspection of risk class 2A removal is a visual inspection of the containment: the isolated enclosure formed using plastic sheeting. If no traces of asbestos debris or dust are detected, air pumps are placed, and adhesive samples are taken. The air and adhesive samples are analysed using the Scanning Electron Microscope. If the samples meet the standards – ISO 14966 for air, and NEN-ISO 16000-27 for adhesive samples – the containment is approved, thus finalising the asbestos removal.
SGI Compliance has its own accredited asbestos laboratories in which hundreds of asbestos samples are analysed every day. Our own professional courier service picks up the material/bulk, soil, dust/adhesive and air samples, which are analysed for the presence of asbestos or ceramic fibers. Our laboratories can be used for on-site testing as well. These mobile laboratories are also used for independent and accredited inspections, air sampling, risk analyses and clearance inspections after asbestos removal. Private individuals who would like to have a one-off asbestos survey conducted, can use our webshop to order the analysis of a piece of material.
SGI Compliances uses different technologies to analyse asbestos samples: Stereo Microscopy or Polarised Light Microscopy for materials, and Scanning Electron Microscopy for air and dust samples. SGI Compliance is the only asbestos research laboratory in the Netherlands that has four Scanning Electron Microscopes (SEMs). SEMs secure highly accurate analysis results. Air samples are taken using special gold coated filters. These are then analysed using a SEM to determine the presence of asbestos fibers (the quality) and the concentrations thereof (quantity). The SEMs are also used for other applications, such as independent quality testing or forensic fire investigations.
The asbestos sample analysis process is entirely facilitated online: from registration to reporting. In our highly secure online database, the analysis results are recorded in real time. The results are also sent to the client in pdf format.
Removal of asbestos is not always necessary, but it is mandatory to assess and control asbestos-related risks in a building. For this reason, asbestos risk management is often integrated in the policy plans of property managers, Health & Safety departments and QHSE managers. SGI Compliance offers support: by assessing and reporting the risk level, consultancy, an asbestos management plan and a digital asbestos management system.
After having conducted the asbestos survey mandatory for demolishing or renovating buildings constructed before 1994, asbestos removal is usually the next step. Asbestos (removal) may also play a part in selling a property. In both cases, SGI Compliance can take on the entire process. From policymaking and strategy to investment estimates. From asbestos survey and soil testing – in accordance with the client’s requirements – to technical implementation plans, management plans, communication and public relations. SGI Compliance can take on the coordination or act as the risk-bearing main contractor of demolition and removal work. For the entire process or subprocesses. We manage and secure the process with a clear and thorough plan of approach: preliminary investigation, planning, tendering, supervision and data management. The unique Work Planner tool Webshop offers digital, step-by-step support in accordance with the approved codes of practice*).
*) Dutch Certification Scheme for Process Certificates for Asbestos Surveying and Removal
Fire, explosion, storm and water damage, or simply the inadvertent processing (sawing) of asbestos-containing materials, may result in the release of asbestos fibers. We call such events asbestos incidents. To ensure the safety and prevent further contamination, acting quickly and decisively is vital. Since December 2016, these actions have been guided by the Dutch Institute for Safety’s ‘Guide to dealing with asbestos contamination incidents’ ‘Handreiking Aanpak Asbestincidenten’ by the Instituut Fysieke Veiligheid. The guide covers the following steps:
SGI Compliance has a 24/7 emergency response service to deal with asbestos incidents and emergencies. We offer support with all the previously-mentioned steps and our mobile Scanning Electron Microscope to determine the nature and extent of the asbestos contamination on site. Asbestos removal and final inspections are part of the service. In addition, SGI Compliance supports owners, fire brigades and other emergency services, environmental agencies and local councils with advice, communication and public relations.