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Asbestos Sampling

Asbestos warning

Asbestos is a mineral fiber that has been used commonly in a variety of building construction materials for insulation and as a fire-retardant. Because of its fiber strength and heat resistant properties, asbestos has been used for a wide range of manufactured goods, mostly in building materials (siding, transite heat shields, transite ducting, various heat shields and insulation, HVAC canvas, drywall and joint compound, insulation, electrical insulation, insulation, boiler wrap, vermiculite, roofing shingles, ceiling tiles, floor tiles and mastic, and asbestos cement products), friction products (automobile clutch, brake, and transmission parts), heat-resistant fabrics, packaging, gaskets, and coatings.

When asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed by repair, remodeling or demolition activities, microscopic fibers become airborne and can be inhaled into the lungs, where they can cause significant health problems. When the insulation is in a friable state the risks for exposure increases and should be professionally abated.

Asbestos Sampling Offered:

  • Asbestos Air Sampling: PCM and TEM Asbestos sampling and testing
  • Bulk Sampling: Suspected Asbestos Materials sampling and testing

Most Common Sources of Asbestos Exposure:

  • Workplace exposure to people that work in industries that mine, make or use asbestos products and those living
    near these industries, including:
  •  The construction industry (particularly building demolition and renovation activities),
  •  The manufacture of asbestos products (such as textiles, friction products, insulation, and other building materials), and
  • During automotive brake and clutch repair work
  • Deteriorating, damaged, or disturbed asbestos-containing products such as insulation, fireproofing, acoustical materials, and floor tiles.

asbestos buildings boiler wrapEpa Website: Link...

Basic Information

Where You Live -- Get contacts for asbestos information in each EPA regional office and in the states.

Vermiculite -- Learn about asbestos-contaminated vermiculite products and asbestos contamination in Libby, Montana.

Naturally Occurring Asbestos -- Learn about reducing exposure to asbestos that is present in naturally-occurring rock formations in certain areas of the U.S., including California.

Asbestos in Schools / Asbestos en Escuela -- Read about EPA's program to keep children safe from asbestos found in school buildings. en español.

Asbestos in Your Home -- Read about what to do if you find asbestos in your home.

Asbestos in Products & Buildings -- Read EPA's publications on asbestos in products and buildings.

Asbestos Laws & Regulations -- Find links to the laws, EPA's regulations and policy guidance relating to asbestos.

For Asbestos Abatement Professionals -- Find out how you can take training to become an asbestos abatement professional and learn about state asbestos accreditation programs.