Asbestos tests are essential at any location where asbestos products may be found. For many years asbestos was commonly used in a variety of products, most often as an insulation material. Years later asbestos was found to be an extremely dangerous substance which can cause lung cancer and respiratory diseases. Homes or businesses with asbestos on the premises must be cleaned up, or in worst case scenarios, destroyed.

Materials that may contain asbestos must be left alone until they are professionally tested. Test results that indicate you have asbestos materials indoors must be taken seriously. All products containing asbestos should be removed and disposed of by a certified professional. There are a few things you should keep in mind when preparing to do an asbestos sampling:

1. Asbestos is made up of tiny fibers that can easily be inhaled. Always wear a protective mask over your face to avoid this.

2. The fibers can also cling to clothing or other surfaces, allowing for the possibility of asbestos fibers being inadvertently transported to other locations.

3. It can take years for the affects of asbestos inhalation to appear. Anyone who has found asbestos on their property should seek medical attention immediately.

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

Purchase an asbestos testing kit

An asbestos kit will allow you to carefully remove a portion of any material that you believe contains asbestos, and safely store and ship it to one of the many testing labs for asbestos across the nation. When you collect a sample, keep a protective mask on at all times, and follow the directions implicitly. Spray the material with water to help avoid allowing any fibers to break off, and cut out only the amount you need for the sample. The kits will include directions on how to obtain the sample and instructions on how to properly label and mail the package to a lab.

I recommend: Order an asbestos test from AsbestosTrouble.com or Air Tech International Corp.

Find asbestos testing specialists

Many companies provide asbestos testing services. Deliver the sample to their laboratories and they will examine it and let you know if it contains asbestos. Leave any potentially dangerous materials alone until you have received the results.

I recommend: Submit your samples to companies such as Western Analytical Laboratory Asbestos Testing Services, EMLab P&K or EMSL Analytical Inc.

Hire a local professional to retrieve samples for asbestos testing specialists

Unless you feel completely comfortable collecting a sample on your own, you may want to hire a contractor who will come to your home or business and collect the sample for you. Some local companies also offer asbestos testing services, or you can request the sample be left with you so you can mail it to a testing lab for asbestos.

I recommend: Find qualified professionals locally at ServiceMagic Inc., The Blue Book or 1800contractor.com.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Notify the Environmental Protection Agency if asbestos is found on your premises and explain what was found and how much.
• •  Make sure any testing lab for asbestos you deal with is officially licensed and certified.