Laboratory Services
International independent contracting laboratory which provides services to a diversified client list.
Our Core Services
BATTA Labs specialize in Asbestos Analysis, Lead Analysis, Mold Analysis, Target Analyte Lists (TAL) Metals, and Target Compound List (TCL) VOCs and SVOCs. Our laboratory staff consists of analytical chemists, laboratory technicians, Microscopists, and Industrial Hygienists. Our experienced laboratory personnel are equipped to provide you with fast, accurate sample turnaround, every time! See below for a list of our lab's capabilities.
Asbestos Testing Services Include:
- Airborne
- Bulk Building Materials
- Settled Dust and Respirable Fibers
- Soil, Sediment and Vermiculite
- Water Samples TEM
Asbestos and Fibrous Analysis - Air Testing, Soil Testing, Water Testing
We perform testing on all types of sample matrices including air, water, and soil. We are a full-service Asbestos Laboratory capable of TEM, PLM and PCM analysis. Our analysts and Senior Staff are trained in the latest Federal (EPA and ISO) and State methods for all asbestos analytical parameters. Our Soil testing capabilities include moisture content measurement, particle size analysis (including capabilities of sieve analysis and hydrometer analysis) and soil/rock aggregates milling that meets the CARB 435 method.
Asbestos Bulk and Air Sample Analysis:
• Asbestos Laboratory Licensed for PCM, TEM, PLM Analysis
• NVLAP Certificate of Accreditation for Airborne Asbestos Fiber Analysis
• NVLAP Certificate of Accreditation for Bulk Asbestos Fiber Analysis
• AIHA Accreditation for Industrial Hygiene
Lead Testing Services Include:
- Lead-based Paint Air Sample Analysis
- Lead-based Paint Chip Analysis
- Lead in Soil Analysis
- Lead in Water Analysis
- Lead Dust Wipe Samples Analysis
- Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure
Lead Analyses in Air, Soil, and Bulk Matrices
Our chemistry division specializes in Lead Analysis as well as RCRA Heavy Metals Analysis. We are an AIHA-accredited environmental laboratory which is capable and certified to perform lead analyses in air, soil, bulk matrices. Using Graphite Furnace and Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy, we analyze paint chip, dust, soil, and TCLP samples and is able to provide fast, accurate turn-around times while also keeping costs low.
Our Laboratories are accredited for Lead in surface coatings such bas Toys etc for CPSC method through the National Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program (NLLAP) and is a successful participant in the AIHA Environmental Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program (ELLAP).
Lead-Based Paint Analyses:
• AIHA Accreditation and NLLAP Accreditation for Environmental Lead
Mold Testing Services Include:
Non-Viable (Non-Culturable)
- Bioaerosols: Airborne Fungal Spore Identification
- Tape / Swab / Bulk: Direct Transfer Fungal Spore Identification
There are two major categories of mold analysis: viable and non-viable. Sometimes referred to as culturable and non-culturable, the analytical work for non-categories which rely on the identification of spores (or conidia) by light microscopy to classify the molds present.
Though guidance documents exist, there are no accepted national standards or benchmark values to compare against to define exposure limits, accepted ambient levels or successful remediation clearanc
Microbiological and Mold Analyses
• Recognized and accredited as a AIHA EMLAP laboratory
Asbestos Testing Services Include:
- Airborne
- Bulk Building Materials
- Settled Dust and Respirable Fibers
- Soil, Sediment and Vermiculite
- Water Samples TEM
Asbestos and Fibrous Analysis - Air Testing, Soil Testing, Water Testing
We perform testing on all types of sample matrices including air, water, and soil. We are a full-service Asbestos Laboratory capable of TEM, PLM and PCM analysis. Our analysts and Senior Staff are trained in the latest Federal (EPA and ISO) and State methods for all asbestos analytical parameters. Our Soil testing capabilities include moisture content measurement, particle size analysis (including capabilities of sieve analysis and hydrometer analysis) and soil/rock aggregates milling that meets the CARB 435 method.
Asbestos Bulk and Air Sample Analysis:
• Asbestos Laboratory Licensed for PCM, TEM, PLM Analysis
• NVLAP Certificate of Accreditation for Airborne Asbestos Fiber Analysis
• NVLAP Certificate of Accreditation for Bulk Asbestos Fiber Analysis
• AIHA Accreditation for Industrial Hygiene
Lead Testing Services Include:
- Lead-based Paint Air Sample Analysis
- Lead-based Paint Chip Analysis
- Lead in Soil Analysis
- Lead in Water Analysis
- Lead Dust Wipe Samples Analysis
- Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure
Lead Analyses in Air, Soil, and Bulk Matrices
Our chemistry division specializes in Lead Analysis as well as RCRA Heavy Metals Analysis. We are an AIHA-accredited environmental laboratory which is capable and certified to perform lead analyses in air, soil, bulk matrices. Using Graphite Furnace and Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy, we analyze paint chip, dust, soil, and TCLP samples and is able to provide fast, accurate turn-around times while also keeping costs low.
Our Laboratories are accredited for Lead in surface coatings such bas Toys etc for CPSC method through the National Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program (NLLAP) and is a successful participant in the AIHA Environmental Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program (ELLAP).
Lead-Based Paint Analyses:
• AIHA Accreditation and NLLAP Accreditation for Environmental Lead
Mold Testing Services Include:
Non-Viable (Non-Culturable)
- Bioaerosols: Airborne Fungal Spore Identification
- Tape / Swab / Bulk: Direct Transfer Fungal Spore Identification
There are two major categories of mold analysis: viable and non-viable. Sometimes referred to as culturable and non-culturable, the analytical work for non-categories which rely on the identification of spores (or conidia) by light microscopy to classify the molds present.
Though guidance documents exist, there are no accepted national standards or benchmark values to compare against to define exposure limits, accepted ambient levels or successful remediation clearanc
Microbiological and Mold Analyses
• Recognized and accredited as a AIHA EMLAP laboratory
ENVIRONMENTAL SITE ASSESSMENT AND DUE DILIGENCE
Acquiring and developing land can be a slippery slope of liability and unfortunate surprises. Every Site is different, and all contain unique challenges that may not be immediately obvious. BATTA Environmental works tirelessly with commercial and residential real estate developers and construction firms to ensure that a site is ready for the next step. Our field personnel and laboratory experts are the best in the business, and will provide clear and concise reporting at all steps of the process. We have performed investigations and assessments on hundreds of properties, and are fully compliant with all state and EPA environmental regulations.
We offer:
- Phase I, II and III Environmental Site Assessments (ESA)
- Environmental Impact Statements
- Brownfields Redevelopment
- Groundwater Remediation Design
- Construction Oversight
- Underground Storage Tanks (UST) Management
- UST Tightness Testing
- Leaky Underground Storage Tank Site Evaluations
- Hydrogeologic Investigations
- Groundwater Monitoring
- Soil Sampling
- Landfills
- Gases, Leachates, and Groundwater Samples
- Geologic Boring-Log Descriptions
- Site Specific Health and Safety Plan Preparation
- Parameter Trend Analysis
- Ex-Situ Soil Bioremediation Design
- Remediation Management
ENVIRONMENTAL INVESTIGATIONS AND REMEDIATION
In recent years, increased government involvement in environmental issues has led to stricter regulations and the necessity for more comprehensive approaches to environmental issues. BATTA Environmental is the Mid Atlantic Region’s premier environmental consulting firm. Our experience with investigative and remediation procedures is unsurpassed due to our highly knowledgeable and qualified staff. BATTA’s field and laboratory staff work together to address the issues quickly and efficiently. Our Professional Engineers, Geologists and Industrial Hygienists have developed countless remediation and EHS plans.
We offer:
- Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESA)
- Phase II Intrusive Investigations
- Remedial Investigations | Feasibility Studies
- Phase III Remediation Project Management
- Remediation Designs | Implementation | Management
- Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessments
- Brownfield Property Investigations | Redevelopment
- Underground Storage Tank (UST) Assessments, Testing, and Closure Management
- Above-ground Storage Tank (AST) Assessments, Testing, and Closure Management
- NPDES Storm Water Sampling
- Soil Vapor Containment Assessments
- Hydrogeological Investigations
- Hazardous Waste Site Characterization
COMPLIANCE-DRIVEN ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
BATTA’s team of experts will help to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations in regards to environmental issues. We are qualified to prepare SWPPPs, Erosion and Sediment Control Plans, long-term stewardship plans, reports, permits, etc. Navigating government regulations can be tricky business. BATTA will help to minimize the reisk of an environmental incident, and keep you compliant.
We offer:
- RCRA Compliance Audits
- RCRA Hazardous Waste Audits and Oversight
- Waste Management Characterization and Consulting
- Spill Prevention Plans, Control and Counter Measures
- Technical Support for Agency Environmental Programs
- UST/AST Services- Inspections, Tightness Testing, etc.
- Environmental Management Systems (EMS) Reviews, Audits and Development
- Ground Water Monitoring and Reporting
- HAZMAT Transportation and Disposal
- Third Party Reporting
- AHERA (Asbestos) Management, Surveillance and Re-inspections
- Long Term Stewardship Inspections
- LEED Building Commissioning
Batta Laboratories
BATTA Laboratories is an independent contracting laboratory which provides services to a diversified client list including Fortune 500 companies, Federal and State Agencies, Small business and even homeowners. BATTA Labs specialize in Asbestos Analysis, Lead Analysis, Target Analyte Lists (TAL) Metals, and Target Compound List (TCL) VOCs and SVOCs. Our laboratory staff consists of analytical chemists, laboratory technicians, Microscopists, Industrial Hygienists, and Toxicologists. Our experienced laboratory personnel are equipped to provide you with fast, accurate sample turnaround, every time! See below for a list of our lab's capabilities.
BATTA Laboratories is an independent contracting laboratory which provides services to a diversified client list including Fortune 500 companies, Federal and State Agencies, Small business and even homeowners. BATTA Labs specialize in Asbestos Analysis, Lead Analysis, Target Analyte Lists (TAL) Metals, and Target Compound List (TCL) VOCs and SVOCs. Our laboratory staff consists of analytical chemists, laboratory technicians, Microscopists, Industrial Hygienists, and Toxicologists. Our experienced laboratory personnel are equipped to provide you with fast, accurate sample turnaround, every time! See below for a list of our lab's capabilities.
All Laboratory Analysis
Our laboratories analyze environmental samples including drinking water, air, dust, soil, wipe, and more!
Ship Your Samples
Send your samples to us! Simply download the Chain of Custody form and mail it in with the samples. We will email you the results.
Chain of Custody
Click here to fill out the Chain of Custody form, include this with your samples and Voila! Your all set!Call for Pricing
We recommend you call 1(855)-862-2882 for sampling instructions and general laboratory pricing.
Explain Results
Trying to make sense of your lab test results? Learn more about what they mean - and what you need to do next.
Order Supplies
We are your one stop shop for environmental sampling, monitoring, and testing supplies.
Accreditations / Certificates
Our Laboratories have accreditations and certifications in almost every state and across the United States
Analytical Methods
Download our analytical methods. We always encourage our clients to make informed and technical decisions.
Batta Laboratories
BATTA Laboratories is an independent contracting laboratory which provides services to a diversified client list including Fortune 500 companies, Federal and State Agencies, Small business and even homeowners. BATTA Labs specialize in Asbestos Analysis, Lead Analysis, Target Analyte Lists (TAL) Metals, and Target Compound List (TCL) VOCs and SVOCs. Our laboratory staff consists of analytical chemists, laboratory technicians, Microscopists, Industrial Hygienists, and Toxicologists. Our experienced laboratory personnel are equipped to provide you with fast, accurate sample turnaround, every time! See below for a list of our lab's capabilities.
Asbestos Testing Services Include:
- Airborne
- Bulk Building Materials
- Settled Dust and Respirable Fibers
- Soil, Sediment and Vermiculite
- Water Samples TEM
Asbestos and Fibrous Analysis - Air Testing, Soil Testing, Water Testing
We perform testing on all types of sample matrices including air, water, and soil. We are a full-service Asbestos Laboratory capable of TEM, PLM and PCM analysis. Our analysts and Senior Staff are trained in the latest Federal (EPA and ISO) and State methods for all asbestos analytical parameters. Our Soil testing capabilities include moisture content measurement, particle size analysis (including capabilities of sieve analysis and hydrometer analysis) and soil/rock aggregates milling that meets the CARB 435 method.
Asbestos Bulk and Air Sample Analysis:
• Asbestos Laboratory Licensed for PCM, TEM, PLM Analysis
• NVLAP Certificate of Accreditation for Airborne Asbestos Fiber Analysis
• NVLAP Certificate of Accreditation for Bulk Asbestos Fiber Analysis
• AIHA Accreditation for Industrial Hygiene
Lead Testing Services Include:
- Lead-based Paint Air Sample Analysis
- Lead-based Paint Chip Analysis
- Lead in Soil Analysis
- Lead in Water Analysis
- Lead Dust Wipe Samples Analysis
- Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure
Lead Analyses in Air, Soil, and Bulk Matrices
Our chemistry division specializes in Lead Analysis as well as RCRA Heavy Metals Analysis. We are an AIHA-accredited environmental laboratory which is capable and certified to perform lead analyses in air, soil, bulk matrices. Using Graphite Furnace and Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy, we analyze paint chip, dust, soil, and TCLP samples and is able to provide fast, accurate turn-around times while also keeping costs low.
Our Laboratories are accredited for Lead in surface coatings such bas Toys etc for CPSC method through the National Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program (NLLAP) and is a successful participant in the AIHA Environmental Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program (ELLAP).
Lead-Based Paint Analyses:
• AIHA Accreditation and NLLAP Accreditation for Environmental Lead
Mold Testing Services Include:
Non-Viable (Non-Culturable)
- Bioaerosols: Airborne Fungal Spore Identification
- Tape / Swab / Bulk: Direct Transfer Fungal Spore Identification
There are two major categories of mold analysis: viable and non-viable. Sometimes referred to as culturable and non-culturable, the analytical work for non-categories which rely on the identification of spores (or conidia) by light microscopy to classify the molds present.
Though guidance documents exist, there are no accepted national standards or benchmark values to compare against to define exposure limits, accepted ambient levels or successful remediation clearanc
Microbiological and Mold Analyses
• Recognized and accredited as a AIHA EMLAP laboratory
ENVIRONMENTAL SITE ASSESSMENT AND DUE DILIGENCE
Acquiring and developing land can be a slippery slope of liability and unfortunate surprises. Every Site is different, and all contain unique challenges that may not be immediately obvious. BATTA Environmental works tirelessly with commercial and residential real estate developers and construction firms to ensure that a site is ready for the next step. Our field personnel and laboratory experts are the best in the business, and will provide clear and concise reporting at all steps of the process. We have performed investigations and assessments on hundreds of properties, and are fully compliant with all state and EPA environmental regulations.
We offer:
- Phase I, II and III Environmental Site Assessments (ESA)
- Environmental Impact Statements
- Brownfields Redevelopment
- Groundwater Remediation Design
- Construction Oversight
- Underground Storage Tanks (UST) Management
- UST Tightness Testing
- Leaky Underground Storage Tank Site Evaluations
- Hydrogeologic Investigations
- Groundwater Monitoring
- Soil Sampling
- Landfills
- Gases, Leachates, and Groundwater Samples
- Geologic Boring-Log Descriptions
- Site Specific Health and Safety Plan Preparation
- Parameter Trend Analysis
- Ex-Situ Soil Bioremediation Design
- Remediation Management
ENVIRONMENTAL INVESTIGATIONS AND REMEDIATION
In recent years, increased government involvement in environmental issues has led to stricter regulations and the necessity for more comprehensive approaches to environmental issues. BATTA Environmental is the Mid Atlantic Region’s premier environmental consulting firm. Our experience with investigative and remediation procedures is unsurpassed due to our highly knowledgeable and qualified staff. BATTA’s field and laboratory staff work together to address the issues quickly and efficiently. Our Professional Engineers, Geologists and Industrial Hygienists have developed countless remediation and EHS plans.
We offer:
- Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESA)
- Phase II Intrusive Investigations
- Remedial Investigations | Feasibility Studies
- Phase III Remediation Project Management
- Remediation Designs | Implementation | Management
- Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessments
- Brownfield Property Investigations | Redevelopment
- Underground Storage Tank (UST) Assessments, Testing, and Closure Management
- Above-ground Storage Tank (AST) Assessments, Testing, and Closure Management
- NPDES Storm Water Sampling
- Soil Vapor Containment Assessments
- Hydrogeological Investigations
- Hazardous Waste Site Characterization
COMPLIANCE-DRIVEN ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
BATTA’s team of experts will help to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations in regards to environmental issues. We are qualified to prepare SWPPPs, Erosion and Sediment Control Plans, long-term stewardship plans, reports, permits, etc. Navigating government regulations can be tricky business. BATTA will help to minimize the reisk of an environmental incident, and keep you compliant.
We offer:
- RCRA Compliance Audits
- RCRA Hazardous Waste Audits and Oversight
- Waste Management Characterization and Consulting
- Spill Prevention Plans, Control and Counter Measures
- Technical Support for Agency Environmental Programs
- UST/AST Services- Inspections, Tightness Testing, etc.
- Environmental Management Systems (EMS) Reviews, Audits and Development
- Ground Water Monitoring and Reporting
- HAZMAT Transportation and Disposal
- Third Party Reporting
- AHERA (Asbestos) Management, Surveillance and Re-inspections
- Long Term Stewardship Inspections
- LEED Building Commissioning
Wholesale Pricing Available
BULK DISCOUNTS
We offer volume discounts and custom pricing to our commercial clientele.
Give us a call for your custom pricing now.
Our laboratories analyze environmental samples including drinking water, air, dust, soil, wipe, and more!
Ship Your Samples
Send your samples to us! Simply download the Chain of Custody form and mail it in with the samples. We will email you the results.
Chain of Custody
Recycle has everything you need to build an outstanding website for your environmental business or project.Call for Pricing
Because no sample is equal we recommend you call for sampling instructions and general laboratory pricing.Client Portal
We care about your experience and our friendly support team is always ready to answer your questions.
Explain Results
Trying to make sense of your lab test results? Learn more about what they mean - and what you need to do next.
Order Supplies
We are your one stop shop for environmental sampling, monitoring, and testing supplies.BETTER SERVICE STARTS HERE
See what our customers have to say!
![MESSAGES LOG IN EXPLORE HELP US EDIT wikiHow logo to do anything... Home» Categories » Home and Garden » Home Maintenance ArticleEditDiscuss How to Test for Asbestos Author Info|Reader-Approved Explore this Article Checking for Signs of Asbestos Having the Area Tested Dealing With Asbestos Article Summary Questions & Answers Related Articles References Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral composed of thin, tightly packed fibers. Due to its strength, asbestos used to be commonly used in the manufacturing of insulation, fireproofing, and other construction materials. Unfortunately, asbestos has been found to pose a serious health risk when its fibers become loose and airborne, since breathing them in can cause scarring of the tissue lining the lungs (mesothelioma) and even lung cancer. You can check for signs of asbestos on your own, but testing should be done by a certified professional using special equipment. If asbestos is present, hire a contractor to repair or remove the materials that contain it to ensure the safety of people using the building. Part 1 Checking for Signs of Asbestos Image titled Test for Asbestos Step 1 1 Determine when the building in question was constructed. Asbestos was widely used between 1920 and 1989, after which the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began regulating materials containing asbestos. Asbestos can most commonly be found in buildings, but also in gas heaters, hair dryers, some clothing and automotive brakes. Walls, flooring, pipes, textured paints, insulation, fireproofing materials, pipes, electric wiring, and even chalkboards constructed between 1920 and 1989 may contain asbestos. If the building was constructed between 1920 and 1989, chances are something in the building was constructed with materials containing asbestos. Few materials made today are constructed with asbestos. Items that do contain asbestos are now labeled as such.[1] Image titled Test for Asbestos Step 2 2 See if there are signs of disturbed asbestos materials. You can't tell whether an item contains asbestos just by looking at it. Instead, look for warning signs that construction materials are degrading. Asbestos isn't dangerous when it's still in good condition, but when it starts to break down and the fibers are released in the air, it becomes toxic. Look for signs of older materials that have become worn out or damaged. Disintegrating pipes, insulation, walls, tiles, vinyl flooring, stovetop pads, and other older materials that have been present in the building since its construction are signs to look out for. Look for cracks, dusty areas and spots where the material seems to be in the process of breaking down and falling apart. 3 Decide whether to get the area tested. If you don't see signs of construction materials degrading, you might not need to get the area tested, since asbestos is only dangerous when it becomes airborne. However, if you do see signs of degrading materials, or if you simply want to err on the side of safety, you should opt to get the area tested by a professional who has been certified to test for and handle asbestos safely.[2] Another scenario in which you might want to get the area tested is if you plan to do new construction work or replace old materials. Even if the materials are still in good shape, they'll get disturbed during the construction process and may release fibers into the air. While you could purchase the equipment required to conduct asbestos testing, it is not recommended that you try this on your own. Asbestos testing should be conducted by someone who has gone through training and knows how to handle the material without causing a health hazard for the occupants of the building. If you haven't been trained, you could end up disturbing the asbestos and breathing it in or putting other people at risk of doing so. Part 2 Having the Area Tested 1 Hire a contractor to do the testing. Contact an EPA-approved contractor who is trained and licensed in handling asbestos to analyze the suspected particles, as well as filing the necessary paperwork required by the EPA. If you were to collect the samples yourself, you'd still have to give the samples to an EPA-certified laboratory for analysis, and give them the protective gear you wore during the collection for proper disposal. The EPA has provided a list of certified contractors by state at http://www2.epa.gov/asbestos/state-asbestos-contacts. Federal law does not require asbestos testing done in single-family, detached homes to be conducted by an accredited professional, although some individual states require it.[3] If you're interested in completing an asbestos professional training program, contact your state or local health department or regional EPA office for more information. 2 Prepare for the area to be tested. Since the act of testing for asbestos can disturb the material and potentially create a hazard, you should take a few precautions to ensure everyone's safety before the certified contractor conducts the test. Prepare the building as follows: Stop any air conditioning, fans, or ventilation systems that could circulate asbestos in the air. Plan to close off the area; don't let anyone in or out of the room being sampled during the collection. If the testing is being done in a home, it might be prudent to have everyone leave the house at the time of the testing. 3 Understand the testing procedure. When you hire an EPA-certified contractor to come to your house to test for asbestos, a certain protocol will be followed to maximize safety. Anyone in the room at the time of testing should put on protective clothing and gear, including protective gloves, boots, and clothes which can be disposed of after collecting samples, and a face mask including a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter. The contractor will probably use the following testing method: Plastic sheeting will be laid sheeting below the area where samples will be taken and secured with tape. The area to be tested will be sprayed with water to keep loose fibers from getting in the air. A tool is used to cut into the substance to be tested to get a sample of fibers. A small sample of the material which might be or contain asbestos is placed in a sealable container to be sent to a lab for testing. The area where the sample was taken is patched with plastic sheet, drywall, or tape to prevent suspected fibers from spreading. Protective gear clothing contaminated by the material is placed in a sealed container to be disposed of properly. 4 Wait for test results. The material sample should be sent to an asbestos analysis lab accredited by the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) at the National Institute of Standards and technology (NIST). A list of laboratories is available at http://www.nist.gov/. If the sample tests positive for asbestos, you'll need to decide whether to repair the area or remove the materials that contain asbestos from the property. Part 3 Dealing With Asbestos 1 Have the disturbed material repaired. Repairs to materials that contain asbestos usually involved either sealing or covering the area to prevent fibers from being released into the air. With such a dangerous carcinogen present, it might seem strange to repair it instead of removing it, but repair is actually the safest option. Removing the materials tends to disturb them more, posing a greater health risk, while repairing the materials to contain the asbestos allows you to live with the materials safely. Repairs should be conducted by a certified professional to ensure they are done properly. In most cases, a special sealant or covering is applied to the area to keep it from breaking down. Floors containing asbestos might be covered with new flooring to keep fibers from entering the air. Repairs are less expensive than removal, and usually the best all-around option. However, if the materials are already quite damaged, and they'll eventually need to be removed, it's better to spring for removal right away. Applying a sealant or covering can make it more difficult to remove the materials later.[4] 2 Live safely with materials that contain asbestos. After repairs have been conducted, it's still important to be careful around the materials that contain asbestos. Be cautious around the materials in question so you don't end up disturbing them and releasing the asbestos fibers. Take the following measures to live safely with asbestos: Keep activities to a minimum in the areas that have asbestos. For example, if the walls in your basement contain asbestos, don't spend more time than necessary there.[5] Don't saw, sand, scrape, drill, or otherwise damage materials that contain asbestos, even after sealant has been applied. Don't use abrasive cleaning materials on materials that have asbestos. Don't vacuum or sweep debris on the floor that might contain asbestos. If further damage occurs, have it repaired by a professional. 3 Consider asbestos removal. If you'd simply prefer not to have asbestos-containing materials in the building, you can opt for removal instead of repair. Hire a contractor who has been trained by the EPA. The removal process is more dangerous than the repair process, and if done improperly it can pose a serious health risk to individuals using the building.[6] Community Q&A Question Can I sue someone who neglected to reveal the presence of asbestos when a contract was negotiated? wikiHow Contributor Community Answer Yes, but you'd need to prove the person was aware of the issue. Not Helpful 1 Helpful 20 Question I have asked a vendor if I can have an asbestos survey done on a property I recently put an offer on. I have already been told the garage contains asbestos on the roof, but he won't allow a survey to be carried out. What can I do? wikiHow Contributor Community Answer I would say that's a good reason for you not to purchase the house. The vendor should be open and honest and should not have a problem with you wanting to inspect any aspect of the house before you buy it. If he doesn't allow it, that's shady. Not Helpful 1 Helpful 18 Question Should every room with popcorn ceilings be tested? wikiHow Contributor Community Answer If it was built before 1989 and has no documentation available from the contractor who installed it, it is a good and inexpensive idea. Then you will know, at least, not to disturb it in any way, but I would recommend sealing or removal by a certified contractor. Not Helpful 1 Helpful 13 Question I have been in rooms that have a very odd smell. I know there is asbestos in the rooms. But I have been in rooms that have asbestos and it doesn't smell. Does asbestos smell? wikiHow Contributor Community Answer Asbestos is odorless, as it is an inert mineral. If the smell is musty and the room feels damp then you are probably smelling mold, which in itself can cause health issues. Not Helpful 3 Helpful 12 Question What does it cost to have a sample tested? wikiHow Contributor Community Answer I saw a test at Home Depot for $7 and then a $40 fee to the lab doing the testing. Not Helpful 34 Helpful 68 Question How do I test for asbestos? Do I need to test the dust? wikiHow Contributor Community Answer Normally, asbestos surveyors make use of an air-sampling pump to draw the suspected asbestos from the surrounding air and analyse it in a laboratory for the presence of asbestos. Not Helpful 4 Helpful 13 Question Can flooring containing asbestos be covered with wall to wall carpeting as a solution? wikiHow Contributor Community Answer Asbestos is only an issue when it is fragmented and the particles become airborne. If it's a rental property and there is a legal obligation to remove asbestos, you may be opening yourself up to litigation or even criminal charges. If it's a private residence, I don't see an issue as long as the flooring is kept intact. Not Helpful 7 Helpful 18 Question I believe where I am working has asbestos. Everyone is getting sick and my boss has done nothing. I have reported this to OSHA. If I have a picture can you tell if it is asbestos? wikiHow Contributor Community Answer That's not how asbestos works. It takes years for the damage to show and be experienced. Maybe the building has mold or sick building syndrome -- look up the effects of these and see if they resonate with your experience. Not Helpful 14 Helpful 28 Question Does a popcorn ceiling contain asbestos? wikiHow Contributor Community Answer The key words here are "Possible asbestos containing materials" - which is almost everything with which a house is built. You need to take a sample to a lab, where staff will look at the material under a very special and expensive microscope. Then and only then can they declare whether or not the material in question does contain asbestos fibers. Not Helpful 7 Helpful 14 Question How can I identify asbestos insulation visually? wikiHow Contributor Community Answer You can't identify it without special equipment. You can identify material that might contain or might be asbestos, but you will only know for sure by sending a sample of it to be tested. Not Helpful 5 Helpful 11 Show more answers Unanswered Questions What equipment do I need to test for asbestos? Answer this question Flag as... Can I paint over a popcorn ceiling if it might contain asbestos? Answer this question Flag as... What's the address, forms, and proper way to send samples for asbestos testing? Answer this question Flag as... Are there any ways to test for asbestos in the air without calling in a professional? Answer this question Flag as... We have a house built in 1904 that we want to demolish. If it contains asbestos when we test it, where in Saskatchewan do we have it taken to? Answer this question Flag as... Show more unanswered questions Ask a Question What do you need to know? We'll do our best to find the answer. Submit Can you answer these readers' questions? On How to Grow Roses from Seed, a reader asks: I bought a black rose, and does it follow the above method or does it have slight variations? Your answer... On How to Apply for Free Personal Grants, a reader asks: How do I apply for a grant to improve an early child development school for disadvantaged children? Your answer... On How to Care for Gardenias, a reader asks: The top of my gardenia bush it top heavy. Should I cut it back and if I do, can I replant the top? Your answer... Video EditRelated wikiHows How to Recognize Asbestos How to Identify Asbestos in Plaster How to Stop Secondhand Smoke Coming Into Your Apartment How to Detect Carbon Monoxide How to Test for Mercury How to Become a Health Inspector How to Become an Environmental Scientist How to Reduce Radon How to Recognize the Symptoms of Toxic Poisoning How to Report Black Mold How to Control Environmental Pollution Risks in a Hospital How to Manage Environmental and Multiple Chemical Sensitivity How to Reduce Your Chemical Intake How to Prevent Secondhand Smoke from Entering Your Garage References ↑ http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Safety-Education/Safety-Guides/Home/Asbestos-In-The-Home/ ↑ http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Safety-Education/Safety-Guides/Home/Asbestos-In-The-Home/ ↑ http://www2.epa.gov/asbestos/protect-your-family#professionals ↑ http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Safety-Education/Safety-Guides/Home/Asbestos-In-The-Home/ ↑ http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Safety-Education/Safety-Guides/Home/Asbestos-In-The-Home/ ↑ http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Safety-Education/Safety-Guides/Home/Asbestos-In-The-Home/ Made Recently Uploaded 2 years ago Uploaded 2 years ago Uploaded 2 years ago Uploaded 3 years ago Add a photo Article Info wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 14 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. Together, they cited 6 references. Categories: Home Maintenance | Environmental Health In other languages: Español: analizar la presencia de asbesto, Português: Testar Contaminação por Amianto, Italiano: Effettuare un Test per l'Amianto, Русский: проверить асбест, Français: détecter la présence d'amiante, Deutsch: Asbest testen, Nederlands: Controleren op asbest, Bahasa Indonesia: Menguji Asbes, العربية: الكشف عن معدن الأسبستوس, Tiếng Việt: Thử nghiệm tìm amiăng PrintEditSend fan mail to authors Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 382,636 times. Did this article help you? Yes No 81% of readers found this article helpful. 47 votes - 81% Click a star to add your vote Co-authors: 14 Updated: 30 weeks ago Views: 382,636 BL Bleu Lee May 19, 2017 "Now I know that I can at least have myself tested to see if I've been exposed to asbestos since I can't find any..." more Share yours! More success stories Related Articles How to Recognize Asbestos How to Identify Asbestos in Plaster How to Stop Secondhand Smoke Coming Into Your Apartment How to Detect Carbon Monoxide Did this article help you? Yes No Home About wikiHow Jobs Terms of Use Site Map Mobile view](https://battaenv.com/wp-content/uploads/Copy-of-Untitled-2-700x394.png)
