Asbestos makes it look simple but poses a serious health risk, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Modern houses have a lesser chance of getting asbestos, but not zero. If your house was built before the 2000s, it is possible to contain asbestos in some form or another.
Want professional help to remove asbestos from your home – Contact us at 01843600765 or email us at info@allaboutasbestos.co.uk
Let us understand asbestos and the procedure of performing a DIY test.
What is Asbestos?
Let us understand what asbestos is and where you can find it in your house. Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals commonly used in building materials such as insulation, roofing, flooring, and textured coatings.
Asbestos can cause damage and release harmful asbestos fibre into the air, which, when inhaled, can lead to serious respiratory diseases and cancer.
DIY Asbestos Survey and Testing
If you want professional testing, connect with us at info@allaboutasbestos.co.uk or call us at 01843600765.
If you want to try a DIY test of asbestos, here is a step-by-step guide to performing the survey.
Step 1. Pre-requisite
Before starting the DIY test, ensure that you have all the necessary equipment, such as gloves, goggles and masks, to protect yourself from asbestos exposure.
Gather plastic sheeting, a water spray bottle, duct tape, a utility knife, and sample collection containers for the area.
Step 2. Identify area
Now, look for areas that may have asbestos. Common areas to check include insulation, ceiling tiles, pipe insulation, and flooring.
Look for signs of damage or deterioration, as these can release harmful asbestos fibres. For sampling and analysis, select the area where you can see the damage.
Step 3. Sample Collection
With caution, collect samples from suspected ACMs. Spray the area with water to minimise fibre release, then carefully cut a small piece using the utility knife.
After cutting the sample, please place it in a separate and sealed container. Avoid contact with skin or clothing. Repeat these steps for all the areas you wish to test.
Call us to collect and test your samples
Step 4. Prepare Sample
After sealing each container tightly, label each container with the location and date of collection. Ensure that samples are kept away from children and pets until sent out for testing.
Step 5. Choose a Testing Laboratory
Search for a certified asbestos testing laboratory near you. If you are using a store-bought DIY Asbestos Testing Kit, follow the instructions and ship the samples to the allocated laboratories.
Step 6. Sending Samples
When submitting samples, follow the instructions given by the DIY Asbestos Testing Kit or laboratory. Complete the procedure by filing out custody forms and permits. Now, samples are ready to be analysed.
Step 7. Await Results
Results typically take a few days to a week, depending upon the lab’s turnaround time. When received, carefully analyse the reports and understand the presence and absence of asbestos in the area.
Step 8. Take Action
If asbestos is detected, it is crucial to take appropriate action to address the issue.
Consult with professionals to find a bespoke solution for your house.
All About Asbestos has over 30 years of experience in the asbestos industry. It has undertaken industrial, commercial, and domestic works across various buildings.
Suggestions to Reduce Risk of Asbestos Exposure
Ensuring that your house remains free from asbestos contamination requires you to take proactive measures and perform regular maintenance. Here are some suggestions to reduce the risk of asbestos contamination:
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House History
Know the history of your house, including when and how it was built, its construction materials, and any renovations or repairs that have been performed.
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ACMs
Be cautious of Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) and regularly inspect for possible infections. Timely house maintenance can help take good care of these materials.
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Maintenance
Keep your house well-maintained and clean to prevent deteriorating and damaging materials that may contain asbestos. Address any water damage, leaks, or other issues promptly to minimise the risk, as the material in a later stage can become very friable.
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Encapsulation
Encapsulation involves applying a coating or seal to Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) to prevent the release of the fibres. It is suggested that you do not disturb ACMs if they are in good condition.
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Removal
If you are planning to remove or replace ACMs due to damage or deterioration, it is best to hire a certified asbestos abatement professional with impeccable skills to handle the job.
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Educate
Educate yourself about risks related to asbestos exposure. Residents must check the guidelines and regulations for healthy living and learn about the risks associated with exposure.
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Handle with Care
If you discover material containing asbestos, avoid disturbing them whenever possible. Do not drill, cut, sand or disturb material because this can release harmful fibres and cause diseases.
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Hire Professional
Whether it is cleaning or, removal, or inspection, always hire professionals because of their rich experience and varied equipment assessment and clearance can be done thoroughly.
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Monitor Air Quality
Residents are advised to regularly check their air quality using proper equipment to detect asbestos fibres. This could alert the residents in advance, and they can examine the possible cause in advance.
Conclusion
DIY asbestos testing kits can provide residents with valuable information about the presence of asbestos in their homes, but they are not as accurate as professional testing. While DIY testing can help in the short term, professional testing is suggested for in-depth home testing.
About Us
All About Asbestos specialises in safe asbestos abatement across Kent, London and surrounding areas. We follow strict HSE regulations to remove and dispose of dangerous asbestos materials from homes, offices, schools and more. Trust our local experts for efficient asbestos removal in the UK.
