History

• How asbestos use changed with time
• How asbestos regulations have changed and the impact this has had on the use of asbestos in buildings and how this may affect identification.
• Phased prohibition of different types of asbestos fibres and products

Buildings

• Why asbestos was used in buildings
• Why and where asbestos was used in buildings and techniques to be used to identify and locate it
• What buildings are likely to contain asbestos and where

Legislation, Health and Safety

• The different asbestos regulations and guidance documents relevant to their role being performed
• How regulations apply in different workplaces and environments

Technical Procedures

• The collection and monitoring of airborne asbestos fibres
• How to collect and analyse samples using microscopy
• How to perform buildings inspections for the presence of asbestos
• The requirements of The Health & Safety Executive, United Kingdom Accreditation Service and other technical documentation

Skills

An Asbestos Surveyor and Analyst is able to:

Equipment

• Operate a range of sampling equipment to identify asbestos
• To maintain, calibrate and repair measuring and sampling equipment
• To use different types of microscopes suitable for the analytical work being performed
• To use specialist plant and machinery for the task being undertaken

Asbestos Surveying

• Undertake surveys suitable for the management of asbestos in buildings
• Undertake surveys for the refurbishment or demolition of buildings
• Provide information about asbestos risks to property managers
• Provide guidance to property owners and managers on actions to be taken when asbestos is present

Asbestos Laboratory Identification

• Analyse samples for the presence of asbestos fibres in a range of materials using chemical preparation, morphologically and composition
• Report on the presence of the regulated asbestos types found within samples

Asbestos Air Monitoring

• Undertake the collection of air samples including personal, background, reassurance and clearance sampling
• Perform fibre counting using Phase Contrast Microscopy and calculate and report on the findings of this analysis
• Undertake the necessary additional checks required to ensure the samples meet regulatory requirements, such as visual inspections of work areas and enclosures

Reporting & Risk Assessments

• Review and assess method statements and risk assessments
• Document findings and report on those findings

Behaviours

An Asbestos Surveyor and Analyst will:

Impartiality & Integrity

• Act in a professional manner demonstrating both impartiality and integrity as per HSE and UKAS requirements

Environment Awareness

• Be environmentally aware, showing a willingness to minimise their impact upon the working environment in line with guidance provided by HSE

Collaboration & Communication

• Display a willingness to work within a team to achieve an end goal and to provide the necessary support in reaching that goal
• Be customer-focussed, understanding the importance of ensuring information is delivered clearly and in an easy-to-understand way for customers and employers need to ensure information is clear to members of the public and employers

Independence

• Be able to work alone and make decisions necessary to ensure a satisfactory outcome is achieved within the regulatory framework

Continuing Personal Development

• Be proactive in their own development and willing to commit to lifelong learning and development

Confidentiality & Customer Service

• Maintain the confidentiality of information and provide high levels of customer service