Asbestos was commonly used in construction materials, automotive parts, and textiles for its insulating properties before its hazardous nature was discovered. Asbestos is linked to lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other respiratory diseases. Because of its harmful effects on health, it is important to have the proper asbestos testing process done before companies and individuals proceed with any renovation or demolition projects. In this blog post, we’ll delve into how the asbestos testing process works, its importance, and what to look for in a professional testing service provider.
Why Asbestos Must Be Tested For
Asbestos can be present in buildings, especially those that were constructed during the 1980s or earlier, in a variety of materials such as insulation, roofing tiles, and flooring tiles, among others. The asbestos testing process is important because inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause serious health problems like lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other respiratory diseases. This is why it is illegal to use asbestos in any new construction or renovation projects. Despite its being banned, asbestos can be found in some old buildings, and that is why testing is necessary.
How Asbestos is Tested?
Asbestos testing is executed by a licensed and competent service provider who uses specialized equipment to detect the presence of asbestos fibers. The testing itself may involve taking samples from suspect materials, those that might have asbestos. These samples will undergo laboratory testing, and the results will present whether or not the material contains asbestos.
Importance of Hiring a Professional Asbestos Testing Service
A professional asbestos testing service provider is knowledgeable and experienced in identifying asbestos in materials. Professional asbestos testers understand the complexity of the process and safety issues involved in the testing. A professional asbestos testing service provider can offer expert advice on what to do with any asbestos-containing materials, and they can ensure you prioritize your safety and that of anyone doing the construction work. Hire a reputable asbestos company that is licensed for its expertise and want to ensure that your family and employees will be safe from asbestos.
Cost of Asbestos Testing
The cost of asbestos testing will vary depending on the location of the building, the size of the building, the number of materials to check, among other factors affecting the testing process. In general, asbestos testing costs range anywhere between $300 to $1,000, but could sometimes go beyond that. In any case, it is not advisable to pick a company based solely on the cost of testing. As we have mentioned, it is better to go for reputable and licensed asbestos testing service providers.
What to Look for in a Professional Asbestos Testing Service
There are several things to consider when choosing a professional asbestos testing service, some of which include; their experience, certification, reputation, and the laboratory testing used. When choosing a company, check for their previous works and look for their reviews. You may reach out to people who had previously worked with them and ask for their experiences. It is essential to check for certifications to know if the company is authorized to operate in your area. You can also ask for laboratory tests references to know the assurance of the accuracy of the testing results.
Conclusion:
In summary, asbestos testing is an essential process that ensures your safety and that of those who work with you. Working with a professional and licensed asbestos testing service provider will be the soundest decision in your asbestos testing journey. With the points we’ve discussed in this post, it will be easier for you to know what to look for in a professional asbestos testing service and the significance of professional asbestos testing services. Always stay safe and prioritize your health by undergoing proper asbestos testing procedures.
