Asbestos Commercial Management Survey | Romford

Location: Romford, Essex
Survey Type: Asbestos Management Survey (Compliance with CAR 2012)
Survey Date: 19/08/2025

Project Overview:

An Asbestos Management Survey was conducted at a commercial/industrial unit in Romford, Essex, specifically to assist the duty holder in fulfilling their statutory obligations under the Controlof Asbestos Regulations 2012. The primary aim was to systematically identify and assess the condition of any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that could be impacted during routine operations, day-to-day use, or standard maintenance activities within the premises. The survey was designed to be non-intrusive, focusing on accessible materials, and provides the essential information needed to develop and maintain a robust Asbestos Management Plan for the property.

Survey Methodology:

The survey involved a meticulous visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property, including:

• Office spaces
• Warehousing
• Loading bays
• Service areas
• External elevations

Suspect materials were identified, their condition was carefully recorded, and representative samples were collected and sent to a UKAS-accredited laboratory for definitive analysis. Any materials commonly known to contain asbestos, but not sampled, were presumed to be ACMs. The inspection aimed to be comprehensive without causing undue disruption to the building’s operations.

Key Findings:

The survey confirmed the presence of the following asbestos-containing materials within the commercial unit:

• Asbestos Cement Roof Sheeting: The main roof of the warehouse section was constructed using corrugated asbestos cement sheets. These were observed to be largely intact but showing signs of age and some minor moss growth.
• AIB Partition Walls: Non-load-bearing partition walls within the old office sections of the unit were identified as Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB). These panels were generally in good condition but susceptible to damage if disturbed.
• Asbestos Cement Rainwater Goods: The external gutters and downpipes on the warehouse elevation were found to be constructed from asbestos cement. They appeared to be intact but aged.
• Bitumen Flashing: Black bitumen flashing around roof penetrations and on parapet walls contained asbestos fibres.

Conclusion & Recommendations:

The presence of these identified ACMs necessitates a structured approach to management to ensure ongoing compliance and the safety of all site occupants. The following recommendations are critical:

1. Develop an Asbestos Management Plan: The duty holder must establish and maintain a comprehensive Asbestos Management Plan. This document should integrate the Asbestos Register and outline procedures for managing the identified materials.
2. Inform and Train Personnel: All employees, maintenance staff, and visiting contractors must be made aware of the presence and location of ACMs. Appropriate asbestos awareness training should be provided to those who might disturb them.
3. Regular Monitoring: All identified ACMs, particularly the roof sheeting and AIB partitions, should be subject to regular visual inspections (at least annually) by a competent person to monitor their condition and assess any deterioration.
4. Controlled Work Procedures: Strict control measures must be in place before any work is carried out that might disturb an ACM. A ‘permit to work’ system is recommended for such activities.
5. Future Refurbishment/Demolition: Any planned future refurbishment, demolition, or major intrusive work on the building will require a more detailed Refurbishment and Demolition Survey of the specific work areas prior to commencement.

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