What it means
Older buildings may contain asbestos in ceiling tiles, insulation, flooring and drywall compound, and lead in paint. A qualified consultant samples suspect materials, has them analyzed, and reports where they are and in what condition. Alberta occupational health and safety rules expect hazardous materials to be identified before work that could disturb them.
The survey produces a map and recommendations for handling or removal.
Why it matters
Disturbing a hazardous material without a plan can expose workers and occupants, shut down a project and create large unplanned costs. Surveys are especially important for renovation of older buildings and for work such as drilling, cutting or demolition in ceilings and walls.
Testing early gives time to plan removal, schedule it and price it properly.
How HSM handles it
HSM asks about the age and history of the building during the pre-lease review and recommends a survey where the building's age or condition calls for one. We share the report with our crews and include its findings in the hazard assessment and schedule.
Where abatement is required, we coordinate with licensed specialists, who perform that work, and sequence our own trades around them. Our electrical and mechanical crews are briefed on the locations of any materials before they work in ceilings or walls.
What to plan for
Ask the landlord whether a survey already exists for the building. If it does, we can review it and tell you whether more testing is advisable.
If a survey finds hazardous material, ask us for a plan with cost and schedule options. Early discovery usually keeps the effect modest.