How To Have Asbestos Tested In Sussex

Are you concerned about the presence of asbestos in your property? Asbestos is a hazardous material that can cause serious health issues, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. If you suspect that your property contains asbestos, it's essential to have it tested by a professional to ensure the safety of you and your family.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we are a trusted asbestos testing company in the Sussex area. We have years of experience in identifying and testing asbestos in properties of all types, and our team is committed to providing high-quality service to our customers.

In this guide, we will walk you through the process of having asbestos tested in Sussex, including what to expect from the test, how to take samples, and what to do if you find asbestos in your property.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials in the UK until the 1990s. It was highly valued for its heat resistance and durability, and was used in a wide range of products, including insulation, ceiling tiles, and roofing materials.

Unfortunately, asbestos is also highly toxic and has been linked to numerous health problems, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. When asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed, they release fibres into the air, which can be inhaled and cause long-term damage to the lungs.

Why Test for Asbestos?

If your property was built before the 1990s, there is a high chance that it contains asbestos. Asbestos was commonly used in building materials until it was banned in the UK in 1999, meaning that any property constructed before this time may contain asbestos.

Testing for asbestos is important as it allows you to identify and remove any hazardous materials from your property. If you suspect that your property contains asbestos, it's essential to have it tested as soon as possible to ensure the safety of you and your family.

How to Take Samples for Asbestos Testing

If you suspect that your property contains asbestos, you may need to take samples for testing. It's important to note that asbestos is extremely hazardous, and you should take appropriate precautions when taking samples to avoid exposure to fibres.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we recommend that you hire a professional to take samples for testing. However, if you choose to take samples yourself, you should follow these guidelines:

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including a respirator mask and gloves.
• Wet the area to be tested with water to minimise the release of fibres.
• Carefully remove a small sample of the material, using a sharp tool such as a knife or chisel.
• Collect the sample in an airtight container, such as a plastic bag or jar, and label it carefully.

It's important to remember that if you're not confident in your ability to take samples safely, you should hire a professional asbestos testing company to do the job for you.

Asbestos Testing Methods

There are two main methods for testing asbestos: liquid sample testing and sample analysis under a microscope. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we use both methods to ensure accurate and reliable results.

Liquid Sample Testing

Liquid sample testing involves dissolving the sample in a liquid and examining it under a microscope. This method is commonly used for testing materials that cannot be easily examined under a microscope, such as floor tiles or textured coatings.

Sample Analysis Under a Microscope

Sample analysis under a microscope involves examining the sample under a microscope to identify the presence of asbestos fibres. This method is commonly used for testing materials that can be easily examined under a microscope, such as insulation or drywall.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we use polarised light microscopy (PLM) to analyse samples under a microscope. This method is highly accurate and enables us to identify even small amounts of asbestos fibres.

What to Do if Asbestos is Found

If asbestos is found in your property, it's important to take action to ensure the safety of you and your family. Depending on the location and extent of the asbestos, there are a few options:

Encapsulation

Encapsulation involves sealing the asbestos-containing material with a special sealant to prevent fibres from becoming airborne. This is a temporary solution, and the asbestos will need to be removed eventually.

Removal

Asbestos removal involves the complete removal of the hazardous material from your property. This is the most effective long-term solution and ensures that your property is safe from asbestos fibres.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we offer affordable and reliable asbestos removal services in the Sussex area. Our team is fully qualified and experienced in the safe removal of asbestos, and we use the latest equipment and safety procedures to ensure a safe and efficient service.

Contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex for Asbestos Testing

If you suspect that your property contains asbestos, it's essential to have it tested as soon as possible. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we are a trusted asbestos testing company in the Sussex area, and we offer affordable and reliable services to our customers.

To arrange for asbestos testing in Sussex, please contact us on 01273 978238 or email us at [email protected]. You can also visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-sussex.co.uk for more information about our asbestos testing and removal services.