Proper asbestos testing equipment is key to the identification of asbestos, a mineral drawn from serpentine rock and found in the ductwork and floors of homes or businesses built prior to the 1970s. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) discovered its harmful effects on humans, such a Mesothelioma, after 60 years of use.

Manufacturers invented and produced asbestos testing equipment because it's unnoticeable when floating in the air. Invisible asbestos fibers release when replacing pipes, removing drywall or remodeling homes that contain asbestos products. There are several things to consider when you take on the task of using equipment for asbestos testing and removal. They are as follows:

1. Asbestos is only dangerous when disturbed. As long as the asbestos products are in good shape the customer is not at risk to inhale any harmful particles.

2. Asbestos abatement equipment is less expensive than asbestos removal equipment. If the material made from asbestos isn't cracked or crumbling then coat it in a heat-resistant paint to prevent the release of fibers.

3. Prevent the spread of asbestos dust by using an industrial vacuum with a micro-filtration filter to clean up the work area. Run the vacuum often to remove dust particles from the air.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use asbestos testing equipment to detect asbestos

Homes or businesses built prior to 1970 have a higher likelihood of being manufactured with asbestos containing products. Asbestos monitoring equipment detects the presence of this harmful mineral. There is asbestos test equipment available to meet the needs of every small business' budget.

I recommend: The Allegro Rotary Vane Sampling Pump not only tests for asbestos, but is also useful when testing for lead. It has a flow rate of 5 to 50 liters per minute and meets OSHA and AHERA standards. If cost is a major consideration, try the EMSL Diaphragm Sampling Pump, which has a flow rate of 3 to 15 liters per minute.

Apply asbestos abatement equipment to cover contaminated areas

Areas of asbestos that are in good condition, meaning they aren't cracked or flaky, are covered with a sealant, preventing the spread of the contaminated dust. This method can't be used on damaged surfaces.

I recommend: Fosters 32-22 Protektor Sealant is an inexpensive sealant that works well on small surface areas. When brushed on the surface it prevents the fallout of asbestos fibers. To prevent the spread of asbestos dust from contaminated plumbing wrap the pipes up with Lag-Kwik repair cloths.

Vacuum the air and surfaces to remove asbestos particles

Asbestos must be removed from the air and surfaces using an industrial vacuum with a micro-filtration system. A regular vacuum is incapable of removing the tiny asbestos particles allowing them to remain in the air and enter the respiratory system.

I recommend: The C-2000 Portable Air Filtration Unit by Temp-Air has a large variety of filter options making it perfect for asbestos abatement. If you plan to only use the vacuum one time, consider renting a Hurricane vacuum loader from Industrial Vacuum.

Remove asbestos from the home or contaminated business

Completely remove asbestos from large surfaces in the home or business using a high-powered water jet system. Small surfaces require scrubbing with a stiff nylon brush.

I recommend: NLB manufacturers the Spin Jet floor cleaner, which completely removes coating from large floor areas in a quick and efficient manner. To get the small areas such as inside ductwork or pipes, try the Static Dissipative Bowl Brush from Gordon Brush Manufacturing.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Educate yourself on the hazards of asbestos and safely using equipment for asbestos testing and removal. Learn about the dangers of asbestos on the OSHA website.
• •  Wear protective equipment when testing for and removing asbestos. This includes a half-face or full-face respirator with an ultra-fine filter to trap the fine asbestos particles.