How To Test Concrete For Asbestos In Devon

Asbestos has been used in construction materials like cement and concrete for many years, but as we now know, asbestos is a dangerous substance that can cause serious health problems like lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis. Therefore, it is important to test any concrete you are planning on working with for asbestos content, especially if it was manufactured before 2000 when the use of asbestos in construction was banned. If you are planning on working with concrete in Devon, then Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon can help you with your testing needs.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon - Who Are We?

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a professional asbestos testing company in Devon. Our mission is to provide our clients with fast and affordable asbestos testing so that they can work with confidence, knowing that their materials are safe for use. Our team of experienced professionals has been providing top-quality asbestos testing and removal services for years, and we are committed to providing our clients with the best service possible.

Asbestos in Cement

Asbestos was commonly used in cement and concrete manufacturing before its dangers were fully understood. Asbestos cement was often used for things like roofing tiles, pipes, and wall and ceiling panels. Asbestos cement is made by mixing white asbestos fibres with cement, resulting in a hard, durable material.

Asbestos is not harmful when it is in its solid, intact state. The danger comes when asbestos fibres are released into the air. Over time, asbestos cement can break down, causing the release of dangerous fibres. This is why it is important to test any concrete or cement material for asbestos content before any work is done on it.

Getting Results Within 24 Hours

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we understand that time is of the essence when it comes to asbestos testing. That's why we offer a fast turnaround time of 24 hours for our results. With our speedy service, you can receive your results quickly and confidently move forward with your project.

Steps for Testing

Testing concrete for asbestos is a multi-step process that requires specific equipment and trained professionals. Here are the basic steps of the testing process:

Sampling

The first step in testing concrete for asbestos is to take a sample of the material. This involves taking a small chunk of the material and sending it to a lab for testing. It's important to take multiple samples from different areas of the material to ensure accurate testing.

Lab Testing

The samples will be taken to a lab where they will be tested for the presence of asbestos. The lab will use a process called Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) to identify any asbestos fibres in the sample. PLM is a powerful tool that allows for the accurate identification of asbestos fibres.

Results

The lab will issue a report detailing the results of the testing. If the test is negative, then no asbestos was found in the sample. If the test is positive, then the lab will detail the type and amount of asbestos present in the sample.

Asbestos in Screed

Screed is a type of cement that is used to cover a floor or create a smooth, level surface. As with other cement products, screed can contain asbestos. It's important to test any screed material for asbestos before any work is done on it.

Suitable Samples

Samples taken for testing should be representative of the material being used. That means taking multiple samples from different areas of the material to ensure accuracy. It's important to ensure that the samples are not contaminated and that they are properly sealed and labeled.

Asbestos Removal

If you discover that your concrete or screed material contains asbestos, then it's important to consult with a professional asbestos removal company like Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon. Our team of experienced professionals can safely and efficiently remove any asbestos-containing material from your site. We are committed to providing our clients with the best service possible, and we always follow all safety and environmental regulations.

Conclusion

If you are planning on working with concrete or screed in Devon, then it's important to have the material tested for asbestos content. Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon can provide you with fast and reliable asbestos testing services. With our speedy turnaround time and experienced team of professionals, you can work with confidence, knowing that your materials are safe for use. Contact us today at 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected] to learn more about our services.