Asbestos Refurbishment School Survey

Project: Asbestos Refurbishment Survey

Location: Walthamstow, East London

Date of Survey: 31/07/2025

 

1. Project Objective

We were commissioned to carry out a commercial asbestos refurbishment survey at a local school in Walthamstow, East London. The objective was to identify the presence, type, and condition of any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) within the areas scheduled for planned refurbishment works. The survey aimed to ensure full compliance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and to provide the client with the necessary information to manage asbestos risks safely before the commencement of works.

2. Survey Methodology

Our qualified asbestos surveyors conducted a refurbishment survey in accordance with HSG264 Asbestos: The Survey Guide. The process involved:

• Full access to the areas affected by the planned refurbishment, including classrooms, corridors, storage areas, service risers, and plant rooms.
• Intrusive inspection techniques to access hidden materials, ensuring no potential ACMs were left unidentified.
• Bulk sampling of suspected asbestos materials for laboratory analysis by a UKAS-accredited facility.
• Risk assessment to evaluate the condition of ACMs and the likelihood of fibre release during refurbishment.
• Detailed photographic records and location plans to aid in identification and future management.

3. Key Findings

The survey identified:

• • Asbestos Insulating Board panels within a ceiling void in one classroom, in generally fair condition but requiring removal prior to works.
  • Textured coating containing chrysotile asbestos on some corridor ceilings.
  • Pipe lagging residues in a service riser, showing signs of deterioration.
  • No asbestos detected in the recently refurbished reception and entrance area.

4. Conclusion & Recommendations

The survey confirmed the presence of several ACMs within the proposed refurbishment zones. Before any works commence, we recommend:

1. Licensed asbestos removal contractors be engaged to remove all high-risk ACMs, including AIB and deteriorating pipe lagging, under controlled conditions.
2. Encapsulation or removal of the textured coatings where they might be disturbed during works.
3. Air monitoring during and after asbestos removal to verify safe reoccupation.
4. Update the school’s asbestos management plan to reflect the survey findings and ensure staff and contractors are aware of the asbestos locations.

Implementing these recommendations will ensure the safety of all building occupants, contractors, and visitors, while ensuring compliance with asbestos legislation.