How To Test The Air For Asbestos In Hampshire

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used extensively in building materials until the mid-1980s. Although it was widely used because of its heat-resistant properties, it is now known to be a carcinogen that can cause serious lung diseases. If your building was built before the 1980s, it is quite likely that it contains asbestos. In order to protect yourself and the health of others who may be affected by asbestos, it is imperative to regularly test the air for asbestos in Hampshire, South East England.

This landing page will guide you through the necessary steps to take in order to test the air for asbestos in your building in Hampshire. Whether you are a homeowner or manage commercial properties, it is essential to ensure the safety of yourself and others affected by asbestos.

Who We Are

Here at Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we are an asbestos testing and removal company based in Hampshire, South East England. Our aim is to provide a safe and reliable service for our clients, whether they require testing or asbestos removal services. We have over 30 years of experience in the industry, and our team of specialists are fully qualified and accredited professionals. We take pride in providing affordable services and aim to exceed customer expectations at every opportunity. Our phone number is 01962 458066 and our email is [email protected]. If you have any queries or require our services, do not hesitate to contact us.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of fine, durable fibres. It was widely used in construction during the 20th century in products such as insulation, cement, and vinyl floor tiles, among others. Today, we know that asbestos poses a significant health risk to humans when friable fibres are inhaled. These fibres can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. The UK has now banned the use of asbestos in construction materials, but many older buildings still contain asbestos.

Why Test The Air for Asbestos?

Asbestos can release fibres into the air when disturbed. This can occur during renovation work, building demolition or the natural deterioration of asbestos-containing materials. Asbestos fibres can pose a risk to those living or working in the area. Air testing for asbestos is the only reliable way to determine the concentration of asbestos fibres in the air. Testing can help to identify the presence of asbestos in the air, and potential sources that are causing contamination. Air testing can also help determine whether an area has been adequately cleaned after asbestos removal.

Types of Air Testing

Nonetheless, there are two types of air testing: personal monitoring and area monitoring. Personal monitoring involves wearing a personal air sampler that takes in air in the breathing zone of the person performing the test. This type of testing is used to determine the level of asbestos fibres inhaled by an individual while working in the affected area. Area monitoring measures the concentration of airborne asbestos particles in a specific area, which allows the identification of the mode and degree of workplace or environmental contamination.

Asbestos Air Sampling and Analysis

The process of asbestos air sampling and analysis can detect the presence of airborne asbestos fibres in a specific area. This must be performed by a qualified professional with the necessary accreditation to work with asbestos. Air sampling for asbestos requires specialised equipment such as an air pump and filter cassette. The air pump is used to draw a measured amount of air through the filter cassette and collect airborne particles. The filter is then analysed in a laboratory to quantify the concentration of asbestos fibres.

Clearance Air Test

If you have had asbestos removal work completed, it is essential to perform a clearance air test. A clearance air test is performed after the removal of asbestos is completed. It determines whether the air quality is such that the area is safe for reoccupation. This type of test is required if you plan to work or live in an area where asbestos has been removed.

Asbestos Enclosures

Asbestos enclosures are recommended when demolishing structures that may contain asbestos. These enclosures are designed to reduce asbestos exposure during and after the demolition process. They are constructed of a sealed, impermeable material, with a negative air pressure maintained within the enclosure throughout the demolition process. Asbestos enclosures ensure the safe containment of airborne asbestos fibres during the demolition process.

Monitoring Asbestos Fibres

Monitoring asbestos fibres is essential in the prevention of asbestos-related diseases. It is essential that any individual who comes into contact with asbestos regularly, have a medical examination every 3 years. Workers who handle asbestos must follow strict health and safety guidelines, including the wearing of appropriate protective equipment. Regular medical monitoring of employees working with asbestos ensures any health problems associated with asbestos exposure are detected and treated early.

Common Building Areas That Contain Asbestos

Asbestos can be found in many common building materials, including:

• Ceiling tiles
• Insulation
• Floor tiles
• Siding
• Roofing shingles
• HVAC duct insulation

It is essential to regularly test for asbestos in older buildings, as these materials may be present, and potentially hazardous to human health when they become friable.

Health Effects of Asbestos Exposure

As previously mentioned, exposure to asbestos can cause a range of diseases that affect the respiratory system. These diseases can range from asymptomatic to malignant. Common health problems caused by asbestos exposure include:

• Mesothelioma
• Lung cancer
• Non-malignant pleural disorders
• Asbestosis

It is important to test the air in your building for asbestos to ensure that no individuals are exposed to asbestos fibres, and are at risk of developing the above health complications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, asbestos testing and removal is essential to protect yourself and others from the harmful health effects of asbestos exposure. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we provide affordable, reliable services for asbestos removal and asbestos testing throughout Hampshire, South East England. We have a team of fully qualified professionals with years of experience in the industry. If you have any queries or require our services, do not hesitate to contact us. Protect yourself, protect others, and contact a professional asbestos removal and testing company today.