Where Can I Send An Asbestos Sample?
Can I send an Asbestos sample?
Yes, in many cases you can send a sample for asbestos testing by post or courier, but it must be properly packaged and labelled according to safety guidelines.
Asbestos
Survey
Asbestos
Removal
Asbestos
Management
Asbestos
Testing
How to prepare a sample
- Whenever a sample is collected, it should be labelled with a unique identifier that is also recorded in the survey documentation, records and site plans so that the sample origin can be traced at a later date. The sampling position at the site may also be labelled with the same identifier. Visual records such as marked-up plans and/or photographic records showing the location and extent of the sample are also effective ways of recording the sampling position and the location of the ACMs
- Spray coatings and bulk materials If the coating is encapsulated, it can be pre-injected with liquid around the sampling area then carefully cut with a sharp knife or scalpel to lift a small flap to retrieve a sample. If the spray coating is not covered, both wetting (spraying surface and injection) and shadow vacuuming may be necessary to reduce airborne emissions. As spray coatings are generally homogeneous, a surface sample should suffice.
- For pipe insulation, the area to be sampled should be fully wetted first: injection techniques are recommended. Samples are taken with a core sampler which should penetrate to the full depth of the pipe insulation. Proprietary types are available, but laboratory cork borers are also suitable. It should include a plunger to remove the sample from the borer. The sample point hole should be made safe after sampling (eg covered with tape or filled with a suitable inert filler), if the pipe is to remain in place and the surface was originally intact. This helps to keep the insulation in good condition and to prevent dispersal of asbestos. The borer should have a wet wipe pushed down to form a plug inside the borer and another wrapped around the outside. The borer is then used to take a full-depth sample of the insulation. The inner wet wipe is used to seal the surface of the insulation where the borer enters and disturbs the insulation. The outer wet wipe is used to clean the outside of the borer as it is withdrawn, and the contaminated wet wipe can be placed in the sample bag. The sample is removed by using the plunger to push the sample out into the polythene bag, complete with the wet wipe.
- When collecting a sample, it's crucial to don protective gear such as gloves and a mask to prevent inhalation or direct contact with potentially hazardous materials. Place the collected sample into a clean, sealable plastic bag. Label the bag clearly with the date, sample location, and any other relevant details. This meticulous approach ensures the safety of the person collecting the sample and the integrity of the sample itself, which is vital for accurate analysis.
- Gaskets, rope, seals, paper, felts and textiles samples can be taken using a sharp knife to cut a representative portion from the material.
- Once a sample has been safely obtained, it must be placed in a sealed, clearly labeled plastic bag to prevent any asbestos fibres from being released into the air. This precaution is crucial to minimise the health risks associated with asbestos exposure, including respiratory issues and long-term lung conditions. Following collection, the sample should be sent to a certified laboratory specialising in asbestos analysis. The laboratory will then conduct detailed examinations to identify the specific types of asbestos present, providing the necessary information to determine the appropriate safety measures and removal procedures if required. It is imperative to follow all safety guidelines and use proper personal protective equipment (PPE) throughout the sampling and analysis process to protect oneself and others from potential asbestos exposure.
- Ensure you double bag the sample and secure tightly. Then simply post your sample or drop it into our HQ office in Benfleet, Essex!
What Can You Test
- Textured coatings (Artex)
- Corrugated cement roofs and asbestos sheets
- Adhesives
- Floor tiles
- Walls and boards
- Soffits and fascias
- Boiler flues and water tanks
- Roof Panels
- External cladding panels
Free Quotation
London Asbestos will provide a no-obligation free quotation for all your asbestos work needed.
- 24hr Emergency Call out
- Asbestos Surveys
- Asbestos Removal
- Asbestos Management
- Asbestos Testing
- Full Company Insurance
- 48 Hour Testing Response Time
FAQs
Asbestos waste should only be handled by a licensed disposal site. DO NOT attempt to dispose of asbestos yourself.
It can be difficult to identify asbestos. If you are unsure, then we recommend booking a survey and testing.
You should contact a licensed professional to survey the property and advise you on the safest option moving forward.
You should book a survey if your property was built before the year 2000.
You will need to have an inspection to ensure the safety of the property.
The purpose of an asbestos survey is to identify asbestos containing materials