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Laboratory Asbestos Testing Services

About

Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once widely used in construction and other industries. However, asbestos is now known to be a serious health hazard, and its use has been banned in many countries. If you are concerned that your property may contain asbestos, it is important to have it tested by a qualified professional.

There are six main types of asbestos: chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, anthophyllite, tremolite, and actinolite.

Chrysotile is the most common type of asbestos and is found in most asbestos-containing materials. Crocidolite and amosite are the most dangerous types of asbestos and are associated with the highest risk of developing lung cancer and mesothelioma.

Testing

Why is asbestos testing important?

Asbestos can cause a number of serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. These diseases can be fatal, and there is no cure. Asbestos exposure can also cause other health problems, such as difficulty breathing, coughing, and wheezing.

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Types of test

What are the different types of asbestos testing?

There are two main types of asbestos testing: bulk testing and air testing.

Bulk testing is used to identify the presence of asbestos in materials such as insulation, ceiling tiles, and flooring.

Air testing is used to measure the level of asbestos fibres in the air.

Following a successful UKAS extension to scope audit Igne now undertakes asbestos in soils analysis along with asbestos bulk samples.

The extension to scope to include asbestos in soils analysis was for analysis stages 1 & 2 (initial screening and Gravimetric analysis). Procedures that were developed and validated were in accordance with the “Standing Committee of Analysts, The Quantification of Asbestos in Soil (2017)” and “The Analysts guide for Sampling, Analysis and Clearance Procedures, HSG248. A2”. 

Grant of accreditation was also dependent on the satisfactory completion of three rounds of AIMS external proficiency scheme, this was achieved on publication of associated test reports. No points were accrued during the completion of the three rounds and a classification of “good” was achieved. Alongside AIMS, three rounds of AISS (Asbestos in Soils Scheme) were also completed.

Services

Asbestos services provided by Igne:

Igne’s asbestos laboratory has been accredited to provide the following services:

  • Asbestos Bulk Samples
  • Asbestos in Soils (Initial Screening and Gravimetric Quantification)

Both methods are accredited for the use of Stereo and plain polarized light microscopy (PLM).

close up of asbestos

Bulk

Asbestos Bulk Samples Testing

Asbestos bulk samples testing is a process to determine the presence and type of asbestos in bulk materials, such as insulation, ceiling tiles, and flooring. This is important because asbestos-containing materials can release asbestos fibres into the air when they are disturbed.

The process of asbestos bulk samples testing typically involves the following steps:

  1. Sample collection: A sample of the bulk material is collected from the area of interest. The sample should be collected from a representative area of the material and should be large enough to be analysed.
  2. Sample preparation: The bulk material sample is prepared for analysis by breaking it down into smaller pieces. The sample is then sieved to separate the different particle sizes.
  3. Microscopic analysis: The bulk material sample is then analysed under a microscope to identify the presence of asbestos fibres. If asbestos fibres are found, the analyst will identify the type of asbestos and the percentage of asbestos in the sample.
    In some cases, additional analytical methods, such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM) or X-ray diffraction (XRD), may be used to confirm the presence of asbestos or to identify the type of asbestos.

The results of asbestos in soils analysis and asbestos bulk samples testing can be used to determine the risk of asbestos exposure and to develop appropriate management plans. For example, if asbestos is found in soil, the area may need to be fenced off or covered to prevent people from coming into contact with the asbestos fibres. If asbestos is found in bulk materials, the materials may need to be removed or encapsulated to prevent the fibres from being released into the air.

Soil

Asbestos in Soils Analysis

Asbestos in soils analysis is a process to determine the presence and type of asbestos in soil samples. This is important because asbestos is a known carcinogen and can cause serious health problems, such as lung cancer and mesothelioma.

The process of asbestos in soils analysis typically involves the following steps:

  1. Sample collection: A representative sample of soil is collected from the area of interest. The sample should be collected from a depth of at least 10 cm and should be representative of the different types of soil in the area.
  2. Sample preparation: The soil sample is prepared for analysis by removing any large rocks or debris. The sample is then sieved to separate the different particle sizes.
  3. Microscopic analysis: The soil sample is then analysed under a microscope to identify the presence of asbestos fibres. If asbestos fibres are found, the analyst will identify the type of asbestos and the percentage of asbestos in the sample.

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Preparation

How to prepare for asbestos testing

If you are having your property tested for asbestos, there are a few things you can do to prepare:

  • Identify any areas where you suspect asbestos may be present. This may include attics, basements, and crawl spaces.
  • If you are planning to have any renovation or demolition work done, it is important to have the area tested for asbestos before the work begins.
  • If you are selling your home, you may be required to have an asbestos inspection.

What to do if asbestos is found

If asbestos is found in your property, it is important to take steps to manage the risk of exposure. This may involve removing the asbestos or encapsulating it to prevent the fibres from being released into the air.

Igne

Why choose Igne for asbestos testing?

Igne is a leading provider of asbestos testing services.

Our laboratory is UKAS accredited, which means that our results are accurate and reliable. We also have a team of experienced and qualified technicians who can safely and efficiently test your property for asbestos.

Call us today for a free consultation

If you are concerned that your site or property may contain asbestos, please contact us today for a free consultation.

We will be happy to answer any of your questions and help you determine the best course of action.

For a free consultation

Call us today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the cost of asbestos testing?

A: The cost of asbestos testing will vary depending on the size and complexity of your property. However, we offer competitive rates and we will work with you to develop a testing plan that meets your budget.

 

Q: How long does it take to get my asbestos test results?

A: We typically provide asbestos test results within 2-3 business days.

Q: What should I do if asbestos is found in my property?

A: If asbestos is found in your property, you should contact a qualified asbestos removal contractor. They will be able to safely and efficiently remove the asbestos from your property.

 

Q: Do I need to have my property tested for asbestos before selling it?

A: In some cases, you may be required to have your property tested for asbestos before selling it. This will vary depending on the location of your property and the laws in your area.

For more information regarding our asbestos testing solutions, contact Igne today