How Do You Test A Plastered Surface For Asbestos In Devon?

Welcome to the landing page of Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, a leading asbestos testing company in Devon. In this article, we will be discussing the topic of how to test a plastered surface for asbestos in Devon.

Asbestos was commonly used in building materials, especially in the construction industry, due to its durability and fire-resistant properties. It is found in products such as cement, tiles, and ceiling tiles, among others. Even the common building material, plaster, can contain asbestos.

Asbestos is a serious health hazard, and exposure to asbestos fibres can cause a range of diseases, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Asbestos is prohibited from being used in new construction materials, but it can still be found in buildings that were constructed before the ban.

Therefore, it is essential to test building materials for the presence of asbestos, especially if they were constructed before the asbestos ban. In Devon, asbestos testing is crucial as the city has a substantial concentration of older buildings.

What Is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials due to its strength, durability, and resistance to heat and fire. It was commonly used in construction materials such as cement, tiles, insulation, and plaster.

Asbestos fibres are invisible to the naked eye and can easily be inhaled if disturbed. The inhalation of asbestos fibres can cause serious health problems, such as mesothelioma and lung cancer.

Asbestos was used extensively in the construction industry until the 1980s, where it was banned in the UK. However, buildings constructed before this time may still contain asbestos.

How To Check For Asbestos In Plastered Surfaces

It is crucial to test for asbestos in plastered surfaces as this was a common material used in building construction. If you suspect that your plastered walls or ceilings may contain asbestos, there are a few steps that you can take to test for its presence.

The safest option is to contact a professional asbestos testing company in Devon, such as Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, who can safely and accurately test your building materials for the presence of asbestos.

However, if you choose to test for asbestos yourself, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some steps to follow when testing for asbestos in plastered surfaces:

Step 1: Identify the plastered surfaces that may contain asbestos

Before you start any testing, you need to identify which plastered surfaces may contain asbestos. Asbestos was commonly used in building materials until the 1980s. Therefore, any building materials used before this time have the potential to contain asbestos.

Step 2: Wet the surface to be tested

Before taking any samples, it is essential to wet the surface to be tested with a spray bottle or water. Wetting the surface controls the release of asbestos fibres, making it safer to take a sample.

Step 3: Use protective gear

It is essential to use protective gear when testing for asbestos. Protective gear includes a disposable overall or coveralls with a hood and a respirator mask fitted with P3 filters.

Step 4: Take a sample

Once the surface has been wetted and you are wearing protective gear, you can take a sample of the plastered surface. Use a sharp knife or chisel to scrape off a small sample into a sealable bag.

Step 5: Label the sample

It is essential to label the sample clearly with the location, date, and description of the area sampled. This information will help you to identify where the sample was taken and when it was collected.

Step 6: Send the sample for testing

Once you have collected the sample, you can send it to a UKAS-accredited laboratory for analysis. It is crucial to use a reputable laboratory to ensure that the results are accurate and reliable.

Why Choose Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon?

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we are committed to providing our customers with high-quality asbestos testing services. We have a team of highly trained professionals who can safely and accurately test your building materials for the presence of asbestos.

We use the latest equipment and techniques to ensure that our testing services are reliable and efficient. Our team of experts will provide you with a detailed report outlining the results of the testing, so you know exactly what you are dealing with.

We understand that dealing with asbestos can be stressful and overwhelming, which is why we offer affordable prices and a friendly and professional service. We are always available to answer any questions you may have, and we will work with you to find the best solution for your needs.

Conclusion

Testing for asbestos in plastered surfaces in Devon is crucial to ensure the safety of people who use those buildings. Asbestos testing should be conducted by professionals who have the expertise and equipment to do the job safely and accurately.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we offer affordable and reliable asbestos testing services throughout Devon and the South West of England. If you suspect that your plastered walls or ceilings may contain asbestos, please contact us on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected], and we will be happy to help.