Asbestos Management Commercial Survey – Clacton-On-Sea

Location: Clacton-On-Sea, Essex
Survey Type: Asbestos Management Survey (Compliance with CAR 2012)
Survey Date: 1/11/2025

Project Overview

We were recently appointed to carry out a commercial asbestos management survey at a motor vehicle repair and servicing garage in Clacton-On-Sea, Essex. The building, comprising a main workshop area with corrugated metal cladding and adjoining office/reception facilities, required a comprehensive asbestos assessment to support safe operational practices and ensure full compliance with current health and safety regulations.

Survey Methodology

Our surveyor conducted a thorough visual and sampling inspection across all accessible areas of the premises – including the main workshop floor, vehicle inspection pits, office spaces, WC facilities, storage areas, plant rooms, and the external building envelope. The survey was completed in accordance with HSG264 guidance, with all suspect materials sampled and analysed by a UKAS-accredited laboratory. The work was carefully scheduled to minimise disruption to the garage’s day-to-day operations.

Key Findings

• Roof Sheeting: Corrugated asbestos cement roof panels were identified across the main workshop area. The material showed some weathering consistent with age but remained structurally sound with no significant breakage.
• Wall Panels: Asbestos cement wall cladding was detected on sections of the exterior elevations. The panels were in fair condition with minor surface wear.
• Window Panels: Asbestos insulating board (AIB) was found within window surrounds in the office area. The material was sealed and painted with no visible damage.
• Soffit Panels: Asbestos cement soffit boards were identified along the roofline perimeter. The material was intact with no signs of delamination.
• No asbestos detected in floor coverings, partition walls, or electrical fittings within the occupied workspace.

Conclusion & Recommendations

To ensure the site is managed safely and in full compliance with regulations, the following strategic actions are recommended:

1. Roof & Cladding Monitoring: The asbestos cement roof and wall panels should be subject to annual inspections to assess condition and identify any deterioration requiring remedial action by a licensed contractor.
2. Ongoing Management: All identified ACMs should be incorporated into the site’s asbestos management plan with periodic condition assessments.
3. Staff & Contractor Briefing: All personnel and contractors must be made aware of the asbestos register before undertaking any maintenance, repair, or modification works.
4. Future Works: Should refurbishment, re-roofing, or demolition be planned, a refurbishment and demolition survey will be required to fully assess all concealed materials and coordinate safe removal.

By diligently following these recommendations, the duty holder can effectively manage asbestos risks, ensure regulatory compliance, and provide a safe working environment for staff, contractors, and customers.

Outcome

The completed management survey provided the garage owner with a detailed asbestos register and practical management framework, giving them confidence that their premises meet HSE requirements. The facility can now be operated and maintained safely, with all asbestos-containing materials clearly identified, assessed, and risk-managed in accordance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.