- Asbestos is a mineral fiber created to be a fire-resistant additive to common building materials, most notably fiber board and insulation. Unfortunately, when asbestos fibers are released into the air they can stay afloat for long periods of time. When inhaled, they can cause lung damage and create cancers. While many asbestos materials once used have been removed, some still remain, especially in older buildings.
- Asbestos cannot be tested simply by looking at it. The actual fibers that make up asbestos are too small to see with the human eye, and since the fibers were once used in so many building materials, it is very difficult to confirm a particular material unless the specific brand and model is known. If asbestos is suspected, samples are taken and sent to a lab. Two different kinds of samples are taken: particle samples and air samples. The materials are wetted down and clipped, then sealed in a plastic bag and labeled.
- Only certain laboratories have government approval to conduct asbestos testing. These laboratories must have both the proper equipment and certified personnel who can perform the proper tests. Usually some type of yearly training is required, often administered by the state.
- PLM stands for polarized light microscopy. PLM devices are the most reliable way to test samples for the presence of asbestos fibers. By analyzing the refraction of light through the sample, the device is able to pinpoint not only the presence of asbestos, but how much asbestos is in the sample and what type it is.
- Since asbestos tests often determine how a contractor must proceed with construction work or whether a building can be used for a certain purpose (such as a school), it is often important that testing is conducted quickly. Most labs promise results back within 24 hours. Since no lengthy chemical processes are involved in asbestos tests, the method itself does not take long.
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