Renovating older buildings carries risks often hidden behind walls, ceilings, and flooring. One of the most dangerous dangers lurking is asbestos, a once-common building material now known to cause serious health problems. To prevent unnecessary exposure and ensure the health of workers, pre-work asbestos survey are vital. This blog explores the benefits of conducting these surveys before any renovations begin, drawing on data and trends to highlight their importance.
Introduction
Renovation projects often uncover surprises, and for buildings constructed before the late 1980s, asbestos is one surprise no one wants to find unexpectedly. This naturally occurring mineral was prized for its fire-resistant properties, but is now recognized as a cause of lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other respiratory illnesses.
The risk isn’t hypothetical. Exposure to asbestos remains a threat for many renovation workers each year. Conducting pre-work asbestos surveys helps prevent accidental exposure, ensuring the project runs safely and smoothly. This blog examines the trending importance of these surveys, underscoring their benefits for worker protection with real statistics and relevant insights.
Understanding the Scope of the Risk
The Prevalence of Asbestos in Older Buildings
Numerous commercial and residential buildings erected before 1990 are likely to contain asbestos. Studies from national occupational safety bodies estimate that millions of homes and businesses still house asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) within insulation, tiles, pipes, and roofing.
A recent report showed upwards of 70% of structures built prior to 1985 may have some form of asbestos present. Renovation workers are at risk of exposure if they disrupt these materials, especially when unaware of their existence.
Health Impacts Backed by Numbers
An estimated 1.3 million construction workers in the US come into contact with asbestos during renovation or demolition projects every year. Occupational health statistics indicate that thousands still develop asbestos-related diseases, despite strict regulations introduced in the 1980s and 90s to reduce such cases.
Globally, the World Health Organization attributes over 100,000 deaths annually to asbestos-related diseases. A significant portion of these occur in the construction and renovation workforce.
The Benefits of Pre-Work Asbestos Surveys
Prevention of Accidental Exposure
The core benefit of a pre-work asbestos survey is simple but critical: it helps identify the location, quantity, and condition of any ACMs before renovation begins. This means workers aren’t blindsided by hazardous materials and can take steps to avoid or safely manage them.
Surveys dramatically reduce the risk of inadvertent disturbance, as teams know exactly where to expect asbestos and can put controls in place.
Support of Regulatory Compliance
Renovation projects are required by law to ensure worksites are safe from asbestos exposure. Pre-work asbestos surveys support legal compliance and keep renovation teams aligned with health and safety standards. Avoiding citations or legal action protects a company’s reputation and finances.
Optimized Project Planning
Unplanned asbestos discoveries can lead to costly delays and work stoppages. By conducting a survey at the outset, project managers can map out schedules, budget for any necessary remediation, and allocate resources with more confidence.
A survey reduces the surprise-factor that can throw renovation projects off course. Knowing what’s ahead allows teams to stay on timeline and budget.
Increased Worker Confidence and Morale
Knowledge is power, and when workers know a worksite has been thoroughly assessed for asbestos, their confidence in safety measures goes up. Morale among teams is stronger when they trust their managers have taken concrete steps to protect their health.
