If you're concerned about asbestos in your home, it's important to know how to test for asbestos in the air. Asbestos is a dangerous substance that can cause serious health problems, so it's important to take precautions if you think there may be asbestos in your air.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once used in a variety of building materials because of its durability and heat-resistant properties.
But asbestos exposure can lead to serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
So if you think there may be asbestos in your home, it's important to know how to test for it.
How to Test for Asbestos in the Air
There are two main types of air testing for asbestos: bulk sampling and fibre counting.
Bulk Sampling or PCM
Bulk sampling involves taking a sample and sending it to a lab for analysis. This type of testing is best suited for large pieces of material, like insulation or flooring tiles.
This method is also known as Phase contract microscopy (PCM). This method only measures the total number of fibres in the sample and does not differentiate between asbestos and other particles.
Usually, this method is best when you are fairly certain there is asbestos in the area as it can miss very small fibres.
Fibre Counting or TEM
Fibre counting involves collecting a sample of air and giving to a lab for testing.
This type of testing is best suited for small pieces of material, like pipe insulation or asbestos-containing cement.
A method of fibre counting is Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). This method is ideal for testing specifically for asbestos fibres and very small particles. 
How to Collect an Air Sample for Asbestos Testing
There are two main ways to collect an air sample for asbestos testing:
Personal Air Sampling Pump
This is a handheld device that you can use to collect a sample of air. Once you've collected the sample, you'll need to send it to a lab for analysis if you are doing your own testing.
The lab will be able to tell you how much asbestos is in the sample and whether it's a danger to your health.
Static Air Sampler
This is a device that you set up in the area where you think there may be asbestos. It will collect a sample of air over a period of time.
Static air sampler is the most accurate method usually collecting a sample over an 8 hour period. Most professional asbestos testing companies will use this method.
What to Look For in an Asbestos Testing Company
There are a few things you should look for when choosing an asbestos testing company:
– Choose a company that is accredited by the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) or American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA).
– Make sure the company uses qualified analysts who have experience in asbestos testing.
– Ask to see the company's quality control procedures including following the AHERA clearance testing methodology.
– Make sure the company has insurance in case of any damages.
Asbestos testing is an important way to protect your health and the health of your family. If you think there may be asbestos in your home, it's important to know how to test for asbestos in the air. With the right precautions, you can keep yourself and your family safe from the dangers of asbestos exposure.
