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Asbestos management surveys are routine inspections conducted to identify, as accurately as possible, the presence and extent of any suspected asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in a building. These surveys aim to detect asbestos that could be damaged or disturbed during normal occupancy, including foreseeable maintenance and installation activities. They also assess the current condition and risk associated with the identified ACMs. The results of the management survey form the basis for the property's asbestos register. Typically, asbestos management surveys involve discreet intrusive work and minor disturbance. The survey may include sampling and analysis to verify the presence or absence of ACMs, but it can also involve assuming the presence or absence of asbestos. The survey can be completed using a combination of sampling and presuming ACMs, or solely through presumption.

A refurbishment and demolition survey is required before any refurbishment or demolition work begins. This survey aims to locate and describe, as thoroughly as possible, all ACMs in the area where the refurbishment will occur. It can also cover the entire building if demolition is planned. The survey is fully intrusive and may involve destructive inspection to access hard-to-reach areas. A refurbishment and demolition survey may also be needed before carrying out intrusive maintenance and repair work, or before plant removal and dismantling. According to The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (Regulation 7), all ACMs must be removed, as far as reasonably practicable, before major refurbishment or final demolition. Removing ACMs is also appropriate in smaller refurbishment projects involving structural or layout changes. The selection of the appropriate survey type is made during the initial planning stage, based on your specific requirements and the property's circumstances. This survey typically does not assess the condition of the asbestos, except to indicate areas of damage or where additional asbestos debris may be present.

The audit process in asbestos removal is a crucial yet underappreciated element of the industry. An audit is fundamentally a methodical examination of operations and practices to verify their adherence to regulatory standards. Within the realm of asbestos removal, an audit should encompass a comprehensive evaluation of the company's policies and procedures, the contractor's on-site activities, safety protocols, and disposal methods. The primary objective of the audit is to pinpoint any instances of non-compliance, offer constructive criticism, and ultimately guarantee that the work conducted meets safety requirements and industry standards. Although the audit process may appear daunting, it serves as a valuable asset for asbestos removal contractors. It presents an opportunity for self-assessment and advancement, while also streamlining the license renewal procedure. To begin with, external audits can pinpoint areas of non-compliance that might remain unnoticed during routine internal assessments. This allows contractors to address any issues proactively before they escalate into significant concerns. Furthermore, audits offer a structured framework for enhancement. The feedback obtained during an audit can steer contractors towards refining their operations and methodologies. This not only boosts their adherence to regulatory standards but also amplifies their overall efficiency and efficacy. Lastly, a successful audit can accelerate the license renewal process. By showcasing through an audit that they operate safely and in accordance with regulations, contractors are more likely to receive timely renewal of their licenses from the HSE.