How Do You Test For Asbestos?
If you require asbestos testing it is important that you don’t attempt to gather the sample yourself. Our team of asbestos consultants are all fully qualified to British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS) nationally recognised standards for working with asbestos.
If you require for an asbestos sample to be sent away for testing then get in touch. We can safely collect your sample. All asbestos testing samples will be sent off to a UKAS accredited laboratory for testing. You will receive an email within 24 hours of collection.
What Does Asbestos Testing Involve?
- Dampening the sample
- Placing in a self-sealing polythene bag
- Placing this in a second self-sealing bag
- Correctly labelling
- Dropping the sample off to a UKAS accredited laboratory
How Long Does It Take?
Once we have collected and analysed single or multiple samples of suspected asbestos in a UKAS accredited laboratory we will perform an analysis certificate which is emailed to you within 24 hours of sampling.
Should I Use An Asbestos Testing Kit?
While they’re readily (and increasingly) available online, there are various reasons why it’s not always a great idea to use a DIY asbestos testing kit. Of course, these home kits can seem quick, easy and relatively inexpensive, and it’s understandable that people are looking to save money, especially in the current climate. However, anyone opting to do their own asbestos testing needs to understand the potential pitfalls.
It’s common knowledge that asbestos is an incredibly dangerous substance that can cause significant health problems for anyone who is exposed to it. Asbestos, which is a mineral fibre that occurs in rock and soil, is known for its fibre strength and heat resistant qualities. Asbestos has been widely used in construction materials and manufactured goods. Exposure to asbestos is known to cause or be associated with lung cancer, mesothelioma (a cancer that is found in the lining of the lung, chest, abdomen, and heart), and asbestosis.
Although asbestos testing kits seem like the most inexpensive option at first, it’s often the case that the added lab testing fees cost significantly more than you’d expect. This added fee elevates the cost to about what you’d spend on a home inspection by Blue Star Asbestos.
Home asbestos testing kits can prove to be a real false economy, despite the obvious initial temptations. And you’ll always be safer calling in a professional – unfortunately, asbestos is a deadly enemy, and genuinely isn’t something you want to take any chances with.
The Next Steps…
Asbestos removal
If the Asbestos testing results show evidence of asbestos then it is highly important that it is left alone and is handled by a licensed contractor as soon as you can. Check your local council for guidance and help on handling and removing asbestos waste.
Don’t try to repair or try to remove asbestos yourself if you haven’t had any training. If you are planning to bring in any builders, maintenance workers or contractors for DIY or maintenance, you should inform them of any asbestos materials in your home before they start work.
If you have already damaged or disturbed asbestos through decorating or DIY work, don’t try to clean it up yourself. Attempting to clean the affected area will cause the microscopic fibres to flow into the air, therefore spreading the asbestos even more.
Do I Need An Asbestos Test?
You may need an asbestos test if a full survey is not required. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012) was introduced to combat the high mortality rates associated with asbestos exposure in the UK. The legislation aims to reduce human exposure to asbestos through asbestos management surveys.
However, sometimes a full survey isn’t needed, in which case you may be able to have an asbestos test. We recommend testing prior to purchasing an older facility, and depending on the asbestos-containing materials present, re-inspections every 6 to 12 months. Additionally, if you already own an older building that has never been inspected, it is a wise investment to start now.
Our expert team are based in Portsmouth, Hampshire and can give you the best advice on the next steps you should take in regards to testing, surveys and samples. Get in touch with us on 02392 811788 or use the contact form at the bottom of the page and we will be able to guide you through the best options.
