How Do Labs Test For Asbestos in Devon?

If you suspect that your home or building may contain asbestos, it is important to have it tested immediately. Asbestos is a dangerous substance that can lead to serious health problems, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a certified asbestos testing company in Devon and we can help identify asbestos in your home or building.

About Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials in the past. It was used because of its durability and resistance to heat and flame. However, it was later discovered that asbestos exposure can lead to severe health problems. When asbestos fibers are released into the air, they can be inhaled and cause serious respiratory issues.

Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can still be found in homes, buildings, and other structures built prior to the 1980s. These materials can include insulation, roofing materials, flooring tiles, and more.

Asbestos Sampling

If you suspect that a material in your home or building may contain asbestos, Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon can take a sample for testing. We follow strict protocols to ensure the safety of our clients and our staff during the sampling process.

The sample will be collected using a small chisel, drill or other similar tool, and placed into a sealable container. The sample will then be labeled and properly sealed to prevent the fibers from spreading.

Asbestos Home Survey

Before taking a sample for asbestos testing, one of our experienced technicians will perform a survey of your home or building. During the survey, we will visually inspect areas where ACMs are commonly found, such as ceiling tiles, insulation, and pipes.

We will then make a list of suspected areas where ACMs may be present, and use our knowledge and experience to determine the best approach for testing. Our surveyors are fully accredited and will provide you with a report that includes all the findings and recommendations.

Accreditation and Assessment

For asbestos testing companies in Devon, accreditation is a vital aspect of the assessment process. We are accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) and follow strict guidelines for the analysis of asbestos samples. This ensures that our testings are accurate and reliable.

As part of our assessment process, we also provide support to our clients throughout the entire testing process. Our technicians will be on hand to answer any questions you may have and provide information on what to expect from the results.

Asbestos Containing Materials

As mentioned, ACMs can be found in many areas of your home or building. However, it is not always easy to identify whether a material contains asbestos simply by looking at it. The only way to be certain is to have it tested by a reputable asbestos testing company, such as Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon.

Some common ACMs that we test for include:

• Insulation
• Floor and ceiling tiles
• Roofing materials
• HVAC duct insulation
• Vermiculite insulation
• Pipe insulation
• Gaskets and packing materials

Asbestos Fibers in the Air

When ACMs are disturbed or damaged, they release asbestos fibers into the air. These fibers are microscopic and can be easily inhaled. Over time, this exposure can lead to serious health problems.

To determine the level of asbestos fibers in the air, we use a method called Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM). PCM is a technique that uses a microscope to count the number of asbestos particles in the air. The results help us determine the level of exposure and whether further action is required.

Getting Your Home Tested

If you suspect that your home or building contains asbestos, the first step is to contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon for a survey or sample. We will be happy to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.

Once we have taken a sample or performed a survey, we will forward the samples to an accredited laboratory for testing. The lab will analyze the samples and provide us with a report that outlines whether asbestos is present or not.

Asbestos Testing Laboratory

The laboratory that we send your samples to is also accredited by UKAS. They use analytical techniques to determine whether ACMs are present and at what concentration levels. The laboratory tests samples using polarized light microscopy (PLM) or Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) methods.

Once the results are available, we will provide you with a detailed report that outlines the findings. If asbestos is found, we will also provide recommendations on how to safely remove the asbestos from your home or building.

Next Steps

If you suspect that your home or building may contain asbestos, it is important to act quickly. Contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon today to schedule a survey or sample collection. With our experience, expertise, and state-of-the-art testing methods, we can help ensure the safety of you and your family or employees.

Contact Us

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is based in Devon, South West England. You can reach us at 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected]. Visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-devon.co.uk to learn more about our services and how we can help you.