Clients Ask: What’s The Process For Asbestos Inspection And Testing?

Sometimes when a disaster (water, fire or flood) calls for major restoration, or when families are making renovations to their house, a contractor may indicate that Asbestos testing is required. When that happens, there are many questions. What’s involved? How long will it take? Who should we use to do the testing? Is my family in danger before testing is done? This article may answer many of your questions. Please give us a call if you have other concerns.

Asbestos inspection and testing are critical processes for ensuring the safety of environments where asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) may be present. The inspection process typically begins with a thorough visual examination of the premises by a certified asbestos inspector, who identifies suspect materials that may contain asbestos. These materials can range from insulation and floor tiles to roofing and pipe cement. Once potential ACMs are identified, samples are carefully collected without causing unnecessary exposure or disturbance, which could release asbestos fibers into the air.

The collected samples are then sent to a specialized laboratory for analysis, where they are examined for the presence of asbestos fibers. If asbestos is detected, the laboratory will determine the type and concentration of asbestos present, which is crucial for assessing the risk and planning the appropriate remediation measures. The results from the laboratory analysis guide the recommendations for either removal, encapsulation, or ongoing management of the asbestos materials, depending on their condition and potential for disturbance.

Qualified Professionals. It’s important to note that asbestos inspection and testing should only be conducted by qualified professionals who have the training and equipment to safely perform these tasks. The process is governed by strict regulations and guidelines to protect the health of the inspectors, occupants, and the general public. For instance, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have set forth standards for asbestos testing to minimize the risk of asbestos exposure, which is known to cause serious health issues such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

When seeking an asbestos professional, it is essential to ensure that they have the proper qualifications and training to handle asbestos safely and in compliance with all regulatory standards. The qualifications to look for include:

1. Accreditation: The professional should be trained and accredited under the EPA Asbestos Model Accreditation Plan (MAP), which mandates specific training disciplines such as Worker, Contractor/Supervisor, Inspector, Management Planner, and Project Designer.
2. State Licensing: Most states, including Colorado, require asbestos professionals to be licensed. Check with your state’s regulatory agency to confirm that the professional has a valid license to perform asbestos-related work.
3. Education: Some states require a degree in a related field such as architecture, industrial hygiene, engineering, or building system design, or a combination of education and experience in related fields.
4. Experience: Look for professionals with experience in asbestos inspection, planning, supervision, or cost estimation of asbestos projects. This experience ensures that they are familiar with the best practices and safety protocols for handling asbestos.
5. Refresher Training: Asbestos professionals must take annual refresher training to stay updated on the latest safety practices and regulatory changes. This ongoing education is crucial for maintaining their accreditation and ensuring the highest level of safety.
6. Laboratory Affiliation: If testing is required, ensure that the professional is affiliated with a laboratory accredited by the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) for analyzing asbestos samples.
7. Insurance: Verify that the asbestos professional carries liability insurance, which can protect you in case of accidental contamination or other issues arising from the asbestos work.
8. References: Ask for references or case studies from previous projects. This can provide insight into the professional’s track record and the quality of their work.
9. Compliance Record: Check if the professional has a history of compliance with OSHA and EPA regulations. A good compliance record indicates a commitment to safety and adherence to legal requirements.
10. Communication Skills: The professional should be able to clearly explain the procedures, risks, and steps involved in the asbestos work. Effective communication is key to understanding the process and any potential risks.
11. Detailed Reports: A qualified professional should provide detailed inspection and testing reports, including the scope of work, findings, and recommendations for managing or removing asbestos.
12. Emergency Procedures: Inquire about the professional’s emergency procedures in case of accidental disturbance of asbestos during the inspection or removal process.

By ensuring that an asbestos professional meets these qualifications, you can have confidence in their ability to perform the necessary work safely and effectively. Conduct thorough research and choose a professional with a strong reputation and the necessary credentials to manage asbestos-related tasks.

Asbestos inspection and testing involve a methodical approach to identifying, sampling, and analyzing materials for asbestos content. This process is essential for maintaining safe living and working environments and must be carried out with precision and care by accredited professionals.

Experienced Professionals. Owned and operated by a degreed environmental engineer, Paragon Environmental understands and appreciates OSHA, EPA and CDPHE guidelines involving asbestos removal. Your concern is his concern. He understands the risk to family and personal health. He’ll make sure your project is treated carefully and with the utmost expertise. Give us a call at 303-529-1257.