Do you want your home or building checked for potential asbestos? Here are some questions to ask an asbestos testing company before hiring them.
Asbestos was a common building material used up until the 90s when it was discovered to pose a variety of health concerns related to its exposure. Breathing in asbestos fibers in the air has been linked to lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other serious conditions. This makes professional asbestos testing an important health and safety procedure.
If you don’t know anything about the processes involved in inspection, then it is difficult to identify a reputable asbestos testing company. Given the high stakes, you want to be sure you are hiring someone who will do the job properly.
The good news is that there are a few questions you can ask to make sure you are hiring someone who will perform a quality assessment. Doing so will address all your safety concerns and give you the peace of mind that your home or business is free from contamination. Keep reading to learn more.
ASK ABOUT QUALIFICATIONS
A lot of people do not realize that most uses of asbestos are not banned. Unless the fibers become airborne, it is harmless to come into contact with the material. That’s why it’s so important to hire professionals who can distinguish threats from innocuous situations.
Technicians performing the inspection should be certified by the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA). You also might ask if their laboratory technicians are compliant with the National Institute for Occupations Safety and Health (NIOSH).
ASK ABOUT TYPES OF TESTING
There are several different methods used to identify asbestos in a building, depending on the situation. The most common is an air test, which uses a microscope to assess the concentration (if any) of airborne asbestos particles.
Simply because asbestos is not currently present in the air does not mean there is no threat. A further inspection and full analysis of building materials by an asbestos testing company can identify any presence of asbestos in your home or business.
ASK ABOUT COST AND WHAT THE PRICE INCLUDES
The cost of asbestos testing and removal can vary based on location, as well as the size and scope of the project. Some companies offer inspection only. Others may combine it with removal, which involves labor and waste disposal costs.
The important thing is to ask what you will be getting for your money and if discounts are available if remediation is necessary. A reputable company will be upfront with you about prices and the availability of services.
FIND AN ASBESTOS TESTING COMPANY NEAR YOU
Remember that asbestos is a dangerous material, so do not run the risk of exposure until a proper inspection has been carried out.
BC Hazmat Inspections is an asbestos testing company that has a solid reputation for providing safe, efficient inspection and analysis for homes and businesses. Reach out to us today for a free quote or to learn more about our testing services.
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