Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used in various industries for its heat-resistant properties and strength. However, it was discovered later that asbestos exposure can cause serious health problems such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. As a result, governments all over the world have banned the use of asbestos and imposed strict regulations related to its handling and disposal. But, how do you know if your property contains asbestos? This is where asbestos testing comes into play.
Who should get asbestos testing?
Asbestos testing is recommended for anyone who owns or is planning to purchase a property built before 1980. This is because many building materials such as insulation, flooring, ceiling tiles, and roofing shingles used in construction before that period may contain asbestos. Asbestos testing is particularly important if you are planning any renovations, repairs or demolitions in such a property. In such cases, you should not start any work until the asbestos testing is done.
How asbestos testing is done?
The process of asbestos testing involves collecting samples from suspected areas or materials and sending them to a laboratory for analysis. Surveys may also be carried out to identify any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in the building. The samples are then analyzed using polarized light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy or phase-contrast microscopy. The laboratories use highly specialized equipment and trained personnel to conduct the testing, and the process usually takes about 24-48 hours, depending on the laboratory.
What happens if asbestos is found on my property?
If the asbestos testing results indicate that asbestos is present in your property, immediate action is required. You should hire a licensed and certified asbestos abatement contractor to carry out the necessary removal and disposal of the ACMs. The contractor will seal off the area, use protective clothing, and specialized equipment to remove the asbestos safely. After the removal, the contractor should give you an asbestos clearance certificate indicating that your property is free of asbestos and safe for habitation.
Why you should hire a professional asbestos testing company?
Testing for asbestos should be done by a certified asbestos testing company or laboratory. This is because the process requires specialized equipment, training and experience to ensure accurate results. Moreover, the company should have proper accreditation and certifications to show that they adhere to the industry’s standards and regulations. Hiring a non-certified company or attempting to do the testing yourself could lead to inaccurate results, exposure to asbestos fibers, and legal liabilities.
How much does asbestos testing cost?
Asbestos testing costs vary depending on the size of the property, the number of samples and the complexity of the analysis required. On average, the cost of testing can range from $200 to $800 for a residential property. This might seem expensive, but considering the potential health risks, legal liabilities and the cost of asbestos abatement, it is a small price to pay for peace of mind.
Conclusion:
Asbestos testing is an essential process that is required to ensure that your property is safe from the harmful effects of asbestos. By hiring a professional asbestos testing company, you can guarantee accurate results, compliance with industry standards, and legal protection from any future liabilities. If you are planning to buy, renovate, or demolish a property built before 1980, it is imperative that you get an asbestos test done. The cost of testing is a small price to pay compared to the potential health risks and legal liabilities that can arise from exposure to asbestos.
