Understanding the Asbestos Testing Process
Asbestos was widely used in construction materials because of its heat-resistant properties until the 1980s when it was discovered that it is a carcinogen. Many homes built before 1980 are likely to contain asbestos. The asbestos testing process is the first step in determining whether asbestos is present in your home, and it is best left to professional asbestos inspectors. In this blog post, we will explain the asbestos testing process, why it is important, and what happens after the testing is complete.
Step 1: Inspection of the Property
Professional asbestos inspectors will start the testing process by thoroughly inspecting your property. In most cases, they will gather samples of materials suspected of containing asbestos. They will take care of specific areas such as the ceiling, flooring, and walls. By taking samples from various areas, the inspector can identify which parts of the home contain asbestos and the level of contamination. It is essential to inform the inspector of any renovations or repairs done in the past as these could have disturbed the asbestos and made it airborne.
Step 2: Testing the Samples
The samples taken during inspection are then sent to a laboratory for testing. The samples are analyzed under a microscope, which determines if they have asbestos fibers. In some cases, the laboratory may also test the levels or type of asbestos found, which is crucial in determining the potential risk of exposure.
Step 3: Risk Assessment
Asbestos is dangerous when it becomes airborne and can be inhaled. Once the laboratory results are available, a risk assessment is done to determine the severity of the situation. The assessment considers the type of asbestos, the quantity found, and the condition of the material that contains asbestos. The asbestos inspector will determine if there is a risk of exposure and recommend the best course of action to manage or remove the asbestos.
Step 4: Management or Removal of Asbestos
If the asbestos is in good condition and not likely to become airborne, the inspector may recommend that the asbestos remain in place and be managed. On the other hand, if the asbestos is disturbed, the inspector may recommend its removal. Asbestos removal is not a DIY project and should only be performed by licensed and certified asbestos professionals. The asbestos inspector can recommend a trusted asbestos abatement company that can perform the safe removal of the asbestos.
Step 5: Post-Abatement Testing
After the removal or management of the asbestos, a post-abatement testing is done to ensure that the area is clean and free of asbestos fibers. The inspector will take samples from the area where the asbestos was removed and sent them to a laboratory for testing. If the results indicate the area is asbestos-free, then it is safe to occupy the area again.
Conclusion:
The asbestos testing process is essential in determining if your home is contaminated with asbestos and identifying its risk level. Professional asbestos inspectors use specialized equipment and techniques to detect asbestos fiber, assess the risk, and recommend the best course of action. It is vital to hire certified and licensed professionals to handle any asbestos-related issues to avoid the risk of exposure to this deadly material. Contact a professional asbestos inspection company if you suspect there is asbestos in your home as the earlier the asbestos is detected, the less costly it is to manage or remove it safely.