Asbestos presence testing in buildings
There are six main types of asbestos belonging to two groups: serpentines and amphiboles. These two categories of asbestos differ in their structure and chemical composition. The different types of asbestos vary in their physical characteristics and applications, but all pose potential risks to human health when inhaled as fibers released into the air. In Canada, the import, sale, use, and manufacture of products containing asbestos in any form has been prohibited since 2018.
Serpentines:
- Chrysotile (white asbestos): The most used type of asbestos. It comes in the form of coiled fibers and is often used in building materials such as roofing and insulation.
Amphiboles:
- Amosite (brown asbestos): Frequently used in insulation materials, siding panels, and certain types of cement.
- Crocidolite (blue asbestos): Known for its long, thin fibers. It has been used in insulation materials and certain textile products.
- Tremolite: This form of asbestos is rarely used commercially, but it can occur naturally in certain rocks and minerals, sometimes leading to unintentional exposure.
- Actinolite: Similar to tremolite, actinolite is also rarely used commercially, but can occur in natural materials.
- Anthophyllite: This form of asbestos is rare and has also had few commercial applications.
OUR METHOD
01
RELEVANCE
It is recommended that asbestos testing be carried out when the presence of this potentially hazardous material is suspected. Before undertaking renovation or demolition work in buildings constructed before asbestos was banned, testing is essential to detect its possible presence in building materials. During a real estate transaction, a pre-purchase or pre-sale inspection may include asbestos testing to identify any potential risks to future occupants or to anticipate decontamination costs during renovations. Asbestos testing is performed by trained and accredited professionals.
02
PROCESS
A thorough visual inspection is carried out to identify materials that may contain asbestos.
Samples of these suspect materials are taken in a methodical and safe manner using specific tools to prevent asbestos fibers from being dispersed into the air.
These samples are hermetically sealed and sent to an accredited laboratory for detailed analysis.
In the laboratory, various techniques, such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM) or energy-dispersive optical microscopy (EDOM), are used to identify the presence and type of asbestos in the samples.
03
INTERPRETATION
OF RESULTS
The results are then interpreted to determine whether the materials contain asbestos and to assess the level of health risk. Areas of the building containing asbestos are identified.
