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Our laboratory is a fully independent asbestos testing service, in operation since 1989. We analyze over 5,000 samples per year, providing you with fast, accurate results. Our analysts are trained and certified at McCrone Research Institute.
Asbestos analysis is normally categorized into one of two types:
Bulk Samples
A bulk sample is a solid quantity of insulation, floor tile, building material, etc. suspected of containing asbestos fibres that will be analyzed for asbestos content and quantity. For sampling guidelines and instructions, please download our Sampling Instructions & Information.
When submitting an asbestos sample, a Chain of Custody document normally accompanies your sample. This form documents the caretakers of the sample as it travels from its original location to the laboratory for testing. For your convenience in submitting bulk samples for analysis, you can print and fill out Asbestos Testing Form (Chain of Custody) ahead of time.
Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) is the most popular technique for bulk building materials analysis. The light microscopy method uses the unique quality of polarized light to observe mineral specific optical properties. In this way, PLM can differentiate asbestos from non-asbestos fibres and further classify the various types that compose the asbestos mineral family. Furthermore, the technique allows us to record the identity of the non-asbestos fibrous component of your bulk building material sample on request.
The PLM procedure provides an economical technique for screening large numbers of samples. However, as with Phase Contrast Microscopy, there are limitations to light microscopy testing due to the magnification employed and due to other interferences present in the building material matrix (ex: tar and petroleum binding components, sub-micron particulate adhering to the surface of asbestos mineral, etc.).
Because of these limitations, some regulatory bodies have recommended (some requiring) further analysis of bulk building materials by TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy).
Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) represents the most sophisticated technology available for characterizing asbestos minerals. Using magnifications routinely at 20,000X or greater and employing powerful chemical (EDXA) and mineralogical (SAEDP) tools, the TEM can differentiate not only asbestos from non-asbestos fibres, but also can classify the several species of different asbestos minerals. However, the sample preparation and analysis process requires much longer than PLM or PCM and the equipment involved is extremely expensive. For this reason, TEM costs substantially more. We offer you TEM analysis services on bulk and airborne samples through partnerships with our associate laboratories.
Airborne Samples
Monitoring air in and around work areas during asbestos removal is a critical step in ensuring your workers’ safety. We will sample your air quality and expedite analysis in our lab. Airborne samples can be taken either “occupational”, or “ambient”. Occupational samples are normally taken from a small apparatus attached to a worker while they are working, whereas ambient samples are taken from a larger stationary apparatus normally placed on the floor of the work space with a stand to elevate the sample. The same type of laboratory analysis can be applied to both types of samples.
Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM) is widely used to measure fibre concentrations of air samples. This is sometimes done right at asbestos abatement sites. Air sampling is conducted for environmental monitoring, personnel monitoring, and clearance testing for abatement projects. It is used to show your compliance with limits set by WorkSafe BC, NIOSH, and other regulatory agencies.
The PCM technique has the advantage of fast turnaround time and low cost. Although PCM is the most widely used technique, it cannot distinguish asbestos fibres from other fibres (ex: gypsum, mineral wool, fibreglass, cellulose etc.). Consequently, an analysis by PCM indicating high fibre counts does not necessarily indicate elevated levels of asbestos. Likewise, low fibre counts by PCM can not conclude an asbestos free environment. PCM merely provides an index of the total airborne fibres present in a given size range.
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