Medical Symptoms and Facts

Should you suspect that your home may contain asbestos in any or all of its common applications, it is a good idea to have your home tested by a professional immediately. Most asbestos removal companies can identify whether or not asbestos is present by studying a sample of the infected material. Results can usually be determined in a matter of hours and removal services are also offered by many testing companies. Usually, asbestos can be contained and safely removed from affected sites limiting and preventing future asbestos exposure and reducing the risk of contracting malignant mesothelioma along with several other lung conditions.

Some asbestos testing companies may require that a sample of materials be provided for testing. Before acquiring a sample of any materials suspected to contain asbestos, be sure to have the proper protective equipment needed to eliminate exposure. A disposable type suit, gloves and a dust mask can help to prevent inhalation of any airborne asbestos particles. Also, be sure to shut off the heating or cooling systems as these may cause particles of asbestos to become airborne and increase the possibility of exposure. It is also important to use a mixture of water and detergent in a spray bottle to moisten the material that is to be sampled.

Slightly wetting the materials will help to keep any dislodged particles of asbestos from becoming airborne and more dangerous. Any materials that are being sampled for asbestos testing should be placed in a clean container and the outside of the container and the area that the sample was collected from should be thoroughly cleaned with a damp cloth in an effort to remove any dislodged particles of asbestos.