Small installation projects can still disturb building materials. Data cabling, CCTV, access control, Wi-Fi, fire alarms and other systems often require drilling, fixing, opening ceilings or creating service penetrations. Before work in an older London building, contractors should have suitable asbestos information for the materials and routes they may disturb.
Why a small drilling job can matter
The physical work may be limited, but a drill or fixing can penetrate wall boards, textured coatings, panels, ceiling materials or other components. Cable routes may also pass through risers and voids that were not accessible during earlier inspections.
Define the route before checking the asbestos information
Mark proposed equipment positions, drilling points, cable routes, ceiling access and penetrations. Then compare these locations with the asbestos register and relevant survey drawings.
Do not assume a general register covers concealed materials
A management survey is intended for normal management and foreseeable maintenance. If the installation requires intrusive access into areas or materials that have not been adequately assessed, further investigation may be needed before work.
For ceiling work, see our guide to asbestos ceiling tiles and drilling or removal.
Typical installation activities to check
- Drilling walls or ceilings for fixings.
- Opening suspended ceilings.
- Running cables through risers or boxed services.
- Creating wall or floor penetrations.
- Installing cameras, alarms, sensors and access-control equipment.
- Mounting network cabinets or electrical equipment.
Give contractors usable information
Relevant asbestos locations and limitations should be available before the installer starts. If the intended route changes on site, check whether the new route remains covered by the available information. Our contractor asbestos-information guide explains the wider handover process.
Need an asbestos check before drilling or cabling?
Tell us the London property type, proposed installation and areas to be disturbed so the survey enquiry can be considered around the actual work.