Rank: Forum user 
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I would like some advice from people in the asbestos surveying indusry or in the working in the asbestos surveying role. I am in the middle of studying for my NEBOSH pg dip and have the possibility of taking a job doing asbestos surveying. Its a trainee role and I would qualify in around 8 months from now. I plan on finishing my NEBOSH Dip but am wondering whether it would be a good idea to take the job doing the asbestos surveyor job.
I say this as I dont particularly want to work in an industry that is fairly high risk as I really dont know enough about the job its requirements and its hazards. Also I think if I didnt take this asbestos surveying job Id try and get a job managing risks using my NEBOSH Dip.
I think wondering about taking this job stems from what was said at the interview which was "if you take this job, it is almost certain that you will contract an asbestos related disease and die a slow and painful death". I myself thought that that was a quite harsh thing to say at an interview and would wish anyone`s thoughts on the above.
all feedback would be helpful
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Rank: Forum user 
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Hi,
I did asbestos surveying at the start of my career and found it very beneficial. It took me to some very interesting locations (BBC Television Centre, Elstree Studios, Offshore Oil Production Platforms, etc.). I met some interesting 'characters' in the removal side, and learned all the tricks that competitor companies used to get a air clearance test 'pass'. It also provide an introduction to the wider field of occupational hygiene field doing personal dosimetry, stack sampling, noise monitoring, etc. Risk wise, there is no reason why, if you understand the risks and use the appropriate precautions/PPE, it should give you that level of concern for your health.
As I've often said on this forum, experience is extremely valuable. The NEBOSH Dip on its own is no guarantee of employment. The Dip plus experience is what you should be striving for.
Regards,
Ross
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Rank: Forum user
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Hi Speirs24790, i have a small company specialising in asbestos surveys, as a trainee surveyor you will be little more than a labourer ! and possibly on less money that a site labourer, once you "Qualify" thats to say pass the BOHS 402 or its equivelent and then work as an assistant surveyor "for a suitable period" and supply a couple of completed survey reports that name you as an assistant you may then be "qualified" !!
in short, the scope for gaining general experience is limited and the long term reward at the moment is not good, the salarys that the big companies are paying are terrible.
A junior position at a HSE orientated company would be far better for you.
hope this helps
GJ
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Rank: Forum user
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There is no substitute for experience, thats for sure. The comments made by Ginga john are spot on though. You just have decide whats best for you. Gaining experience in one of the most regulated industries cannot hinder you although I am biased and never intended to get into the asbestos industry.
I am currently doing NEBOSH General Certificate and the experience and knowledge of this industry will hopefully help me greatly. Next stop Diploma.
The statement made at your interview worries me though, what kind of (ir)responsible organisation would make such sweeping, alarmist and downright stupid remarks?
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Rank: Super forum user
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Hi Speirs.
The comment made to you at interview is indicative of an employer who does not make the right efforts to prevent its surveyors from being exposed to dangerous levels of asbestos exposure.
p
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