What Is An Asbestos Inspection?

An asbestos inspection is when a building is analysed for the presence or location of asbestos-containing materials (ACM). ACM are materials that contain more than 1% of asbestos.

Suspected ACM material must be sampled and analysed before it can be identified officially as an ACM. Asbestos inspections also involve re-examining a facility to detect the presence of additional ACM.

The Types Of Samples In An Asbestos Inspection

During an asbestos inspection, there are a few different samples that need to be taken to confirm that a suspected ACM is an ACM. This includes thermal system insulation, surfacing material and miscellaneous material.

Miscellaneous

Miscellaneous materials are those which are not surfacing materials like linoleum, ceiling tile or floor tile. When it comes to homogenous materials, an adequate number of samples must be collected and analysed to identify whether the material is ACM. However, if an asbestos inspector has determined certain homogenous materials as non-asbestos containing, these do not need to be analyzed.

Surfacing

Surfacing material includes materials like ceiling textures, troweled-on plasters and spray-applied fireproofing. A minimum of three samples must be taken from homogenous materials of 1000 square feet or less, seven samples from homogenous materials more than 5000 square feet and at least five samples from homogenous materials greater than 1000 but less than 5000 square feet.

Thermal System Insulation

Thermal system insulation (TSI) relates to materials such as vermiculite, furnace gaskets, ductwork insulation, pipe insulation and boiler insulation. A minimum of three samples are required from each homogeneous material of TSI. Besides, a minimum of one sample from patched TSI is less than six square feet.

Furthermore, with regards to pipe fittings, samples are also needed to identify if the material contains asbestos.

If you need an asbestos inspection for a property, please do not hesitate to call us at 0800-272-378 or send an email to office@0800asbestos.com. We are available 24/7 and take pride in the removal of asbestos and preventing people from being exposed to this harmful material.

0800 Asbestos has over 25 years of experience in the industry and has worked with some of the largest development companies in the UK.