How often should asbestos inspections be conducted in older buildings?

Conducting asbestos inspections periodically, especially before renovation or demolition, is essential in older buildings for several reasons. Asbestos was commonly used in construction materials before its health risks became widely recognized. Over time, building materials can deteriorate, and this deterioration may release harmful asbestos fibers into the air.

Performing inspections before any renovation or demolition activities allows for the identification of asbestos-containing materials and helps to assess their condition. This proactive approach ensures that proper safety measures can be implemented to manage or remove asbestos safely, reducing the risk of exposure to both workers and occupants of the building. Furthermore, many regulations mandate the inspection of asbestos-containing materials prior to any work that may disturb them, reinforcing the necessity of this practice.

While other options suggest different frequencies for inspections, they may not adequately address the immediacy and necessity of identifying asbestos risks before construction activities that might disturb such materials. Regular inspections, as suggested in the correct answer, are vital for ensuring health and safety within older buildings.