How Do Asbestos Test Kits Work In Devon?

Asbestos testing is an essential step in ensuring that a building is safe for occupation. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in many building materials before it was linked to respiratory diseases such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are still found in many buildings, particularly those built before the 1990s. It is essential to have these materials tested for the presence of asbestos to protect the health of inhabitants.

For homeowners, the most common way to test for asbestos is by using an asbestos test kit. In this article, we will explore how asbestos test kits work in Devon, South West England.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon: The Asbestos Testing Company In Devon

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we are a professional testing company, providing asbestos testing services in Devon and its surrounding areas. We strongly advise property owners to test any suspected asbestos-containing materials or structures in their homes, offices or commercial premises.

Our asbestos testing service is performed by our expert team of licensed asbestos assessors. They have the necessary qualifications, training and experience to correctly identify and sample suspected asbestos materials, including those that pose a low risk or are difficult to reach, for analysis at an accredited laboratory.

Our service will help you adhere to the safety regulations and guidelines set forth by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). We are committed to providing you with accurate and timely asbestos testing results that will guide you on the appropriate action to take for your safety.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has been used in building materials since the early 1900s, primarily due to its durability and fire-resistant properties. Asbestos became widely used in the UK after the Second World War, the peak use was in the 1960s and 1970s.

Asbestos-containing materials, commonly referred to as ACMs, may be found in various areas of a building, especially those built before the ban of asbestos use in the UK in 1999. These include but are not limited to:

• Ceiling tiles
• Floor tiles
• Cement sheets,
• Pipes and pipe insulation
• Boilers/tilers/gaskets
• Roof shingles and felt
• Insulation

Unfortunately, breathing in the microscopic fibres of asbestos contained within these materials can lead to health complications, including asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer.

Asbestos is classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a Class 1 Carcinogen. Public awareness programmes have been structured to promote asbestos testing in homes and buildings to ensure the safety of people who might come into contact with any asbestos fibres.

The Importance of Asbestos Testing

Asbestos testing can help identify asbestos within the building structure, leading to the initiation of the appropriate remedial action. Asbestos remains within the body system after a critical mass has been accumulated, leading to long-term health complications. Therefore, it is vital to test ACMs in the property and ensure that they are either properly handled or removed and disposed of according to the set guidelines.

Testing for asbestos signals the presence of any harmful substance in the building, leading to the elimination of the risk associated with asbestos exposure. Asbestos testing is often required before any renovation or demolition activity takes place for public safety.

Asbestos Testing in Devon

Asbestos testing in Devon is accessible and affordable. Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon provides asbestos testing services across the south-west, using advanced equipment and industry protocols to ensure comprehensive results.

Our testing services are available for commercial, industrial and residential properties. Our team of professionals is adept at identifying the different types of asbestos, sampling, and conducting appropriate tests for fibre analysis.

The information from our asbestos testing services is relayed through a comprehensive report that indicates the level of asbestos in the property. The type of asbestos, the extent of any damage and the appropriate remediation actions needed. Our recommendations are based on the relevant legislation guiding asbestos cleanup and remediation activities.

How Do Asbestos Test Kits in Devon Work?

Asbestos test kits in Devon work by sampling the suspected asbestos-containing material and sending it to a laboratory for testing. Home asbestos test kits in Devon are widely available and have made testing more accessible and convenient.

Asbestos test kits are designed for homeowners, DIY enthusiasts and contractors who wish to identify asbestos-containing materials within a property. Our kits are easy to use, and customers can sample and dispatch the suspected ACMs to our accredited laboratory for analysis.

What is Included in a Home Asbestos Testing Kit?

A home asbestos testing kit contains all the necessary equipment to collect suspected ACM samples safely. Homeowners can obtain asbestos testing kits from Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon that generally come with:

• Detailed instruction manuals explicitly designed to show the steps to follow while conducting the test.
• Safety gear like gloves, masks, and disposable overalls - to protect against inhalation of any harmful fibres.
• Sample bags and labels for identifying the sample.
• Prepaid postage labels are included, with which customers can send the sample to the laboratory to be analysed.

How to Conduct an Asbestos Test Using At-Home Kits

Asbestos test kits work best when the homeowner or contractor follows the instructions. We have outlined a general guide for anyone interested in collecting asbestos samples using an at-home kit.

Step 1: Equipment preparation

Before starting the sample collection, ensure that you have all the necessary equipment as outlined in the instruction manual. Put on protective gear, including gloves, respirator, and overalls, to minimise the risk of asbestos exposure.

When collecting samples, ensure that the chosen area is moist, and there is minimal disturbance to the material to prevent the release of asbestos fibres.

Step 2: Collect the Sample

The process of collecting the sample requires you to use a tool like a knife or screwdriver to remove a relatively small piece of the suspected ACM material. Place the sample in the labelled and sealed bag provided with the kit. Be careful not to break or damage the sample.

Step 3: Send the Sample to the Laboratory

Seal the sample bag and place it in another sealable plastic bag. Place the newly sealed bag, along with the instruction sheet, in the box or envelope provided in the kit. Affix the prepaid postage label and dispatch to the laboratory for analysis.

Step 4: Receiving the Results

After two to three days, the laboratory will send the test results to the customer. If the sample contains asbestos, the report will give recommendations on the remedial action needed.

In Conclusion

Asbestos testing is an essential step in ensuring that a building is safe for habitation. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we provide professional asbestos testing services in Devon, ensuring that the highest standards are maintained during analysis.

Homeowners can undertake testing for themselves, using at-home asbestos testing kits, sold through our company. By following the instructions provided in the kit, customers will be able to collect samples from the suspected ACM, send them to our lab for analysis and receive an accurate report on the presence and levels of asbestos in their property.

To learn more about our asbestos testing services, you can call us on 01962 458066, or email us at [email protected], or visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-devon.co.uk.