Type 1 - Location and Assessment Survey
(Presumptive Survey)

The purpose of a Type 1 survey is to locate, as far as reasonably practical, any suspected ACMs in the building and assess the risk. All areas must be accessed and inspected (including; above false ceilings and inside risers, service ducts, lift shafts etc.) or they will be presumed to contain asbestos.

Type 2 - Standard Sampling, Identification and Assessment Survey
(Sampling Survey)

The purpose and procedures used in this survey are the same as the Type 1 survey. With the Type 2 survey, however, representative samples are collected and analysed for the presence of asbestos.

Samples from each suspected ACM are collected and analysed to confirm or negate the surveyor's judgement. Sampling may take place with the survey or, in the case of some larger surveys, as a separate exercise following completion of a Type 1 survey.

Type 3 - Access Sampling and Identification Survey
(Pre-Demolition/ Major Refurbishment Survey)

Type 3 survey is used to locate and describe, as far as reasonably practical, all ACMs in the building and involving, if necessary, destruction inspection to gain access to all areas, however difficult to reach.

During this survey, potential ACMs will be identified and an estimate made of their volume and surface area. This survey is designed to be used as a basis for tendering the removal of ACMs from the building prior to demolition or major refurbishment.

A Type 3 survey does not assess the condition of the asbestos other than to note areas of damage or where additional asbestos debris could possibly be found.

The type of survey required will depend on the individual circumstances of the client. At Tamg we can advise you on the type of survey most appropriate to your needs.

We also ensure that whichever survey is used, it conforms to a standard. Otherwise interpretation of the survey reports is difficult and the management plan produced may not adequately minimise the risks involved. By using the MDHS standard, at Tamg we meet guidelines laid down by the Health and Safety Executive.