In 29th January 2010 the HSE released HSG 264 Asbestos: The survey guide, this document updates and replaces MDHS 100. HSG 264 is aimed at those conducting Surveys, those who commission surveys and those with responsibilities for managing asbestos in accordance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations (CAR) 2006. Some key points of HSG 264 are:-

UKAS Accreditation demonstrates Technical Competence for undertaking asbestos surveys.Type 1 & 2 Surveys are replaced by Management Surveys and Type 3 surveys are replaced by Refurbishment and Demolition Surveys.Further emphasis and importance has been placed on the Surveying Planning Phase of a survey to reduce any caveats and areas of no access as far as is reasonably practicable.Survey Report and Asbestos Register format have been detailed.A Survey Strategy has been detailed for both non-domestic and domestic properties.Shield Environmental Services are currently in the process of reviewing and amending all internal procedures and paperwork from compliance MDHS 100 to the new HSG 264 Asbestos: The Survey Guide. Relevant changes to procedures and paperwork will be implemented as soon as practicable and in strict accordance with instructions received from United Kingdom Accreditation Service:-

'UKAS have taken the decision to allow a three month transition period for Inspection Bodies to review, consider and implement the enhanced guidance in HSG 264 before schedules are amended to display the new HSE guidance. Updated schedules will all be issued by UKAS at the same time, 3rd May 2010.'
Should you require any further information in relation to the new guidance then please do not hesitate to contact either Jason Hocking or Jon House on 01179 606 366.