Asbestos Air Monitoring Services
Independent air testing and monitoring for asbestos fibers by UKAS accredited analysts. Clearance certificates, background, and reassurance monitoring.
Professional Asbestos Air Monitoring
Asbestos Solutions AZ provides comprehensive air monitoring services performed by UKAS accredited analysts. Our testing ensures that airborne asbestos fiber concentrations are accurately measured and properly documented.
Air monitoring is essential for ensuring the safety of occupants and workers during and after asbestos removal work, confirming that fiber levels are below control limits and providing the necessary documentation for regulatory compliance.
Our independent analysts deliver impartial results and clear documentation to give you complete confidence in the safety of your premises.
Independent Subcontractor Services
To ensure complete impartiality and the highest testing standards, we engage independent UKAS accredited subcontractors for all our air monitoring services. These specialists work autonomously to provide unbiased results while strictly following all HSE guidance and regulatory requirements.
UKAS Accredited
Analysis performed to ISO 17025 standards
Fast Results
Rapid turnaround for minimal disruption
Our Air Monitoring Services
We provide a range of specialist air monitoring services to ensure safety and compliance throughout the asbestos management process:
Clearance Air Testing
Following asbestos removal work, we conduct the 4-stage clearance process to verify that the area is safe for reoccupation.
This includes a thorough visual inspection and air testing to confirm that fiber levels are below the clearance indicator of 0.01 f/ml, resulting in the issue of a certificate of reoccupation.
Background Air Monitoring
We conduct background air monitoring to establish normal airborne fiber levels before any asbestos work begins.
This provides baseline data for comparison with subsequent tests and can help identify any pre-existing airborne asbestos issues in buildings.
Leak Testing
During licensed asbestos removal work, we conduct regular leak testing outside enclosures to verify that control measures are effective.
This ensures that no asbestos fibers are escaping from the work area and provides ongoing assurance throughout the removal process.
Personal Monitoring
We provide personal air monitoring for workers to measure their exposure to airborne asbestos fibers during various activities.
This helps determine appropriate control measures, respiratory protection, and ensures compliance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
Reassurance Monitoring
Following completion of asbestos work or when there are concerns about potential fiber release, we provide reassurance monitoring.
This confirms that fiber levels remain below the clearance indicator and provides peace of mind for building occupants and managers.
Environmental Monitoring
We conduct environmental monitoring around sites where asbestos materials are being handled to assess any potential impact on surrounding areas.
This is particularly important for sensitive locations such as schools, hospitals or residential areas adjacent to asbestos removal sites.
Our Air Monitoring Process
We follow strict protocols to ensure accurate and reliable air monitoring results:
- 1
Sample Collection
We use calibrated air sampling pumps to draw a measured volume of air through a filter, capturing any airborne fibers. The sampling equipment is set up in accordance with HSG248 guidance and positioned in representative locations.
- 2
Filter Preparation
The filter is carefully prepared using the membrane filter method. It is mounted onto a microscope slide and made transparent using acetone vapor and triacetin mounting medium.
- 3
Fiber Counting
Our UKAS accredited analysts examine the prepared slides under a phase contrast microscope, counting the number of fibers according to standardized counting rules. This is performed in accordance with HSG248 Asbestos: The Analysts' Guide.
- 4
Result Calculation & Reporting
The fiber concentration is calculated based on the number of fibers counted, the area of the filter examined, and the volume of air sampled. We provide detailed reports containing all relevant information including fiber concentrations, sampling parameters, and compliance status.
The 4-Stage Clearance Process
Following licensed asbestos removal work, we conduct the 4-stage clearance testing procedure to ensure the area is safe for reoccupation:
Preliminary Check
Visual inspection to ensure the removal work has been completed as per the plan of work, the area is free from visible debris, and the enclosure is intact with operational negative pressure units.
Thorough Visual Inspection
Detailed examination of all surfaces within the enclosure to ensure removal is complete and the area is free from asbestos debris, dust, and waste. This is conducted under good lighting conditions and may involve checking multiple areas within the enclosure.
Air Monitoring
Air samples are collected within the enclosure under disturbed conditions (using a brush to agitate surfaces) to assess the concentration of airborne fibers. To pass, the result must be below 0.01 fibers/ml.
Final Assessment
Following successful air testing, the enclosure can be dismantled. A final visual inspection of the area is then conducted to ensure it is suitable for handover. Upon completion, a certificate of reoccupation is issued.
Certificate of Reoccupation
Upon successful completion of the 4-stage clearance process, we issue a certificate of reoccupation that comprehensively documents all aspects of the clearance procedure. This certificate is a legal requirement under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and provides evidence that the area has been properly cleared and is safe to reoccupy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about our asbestos air monitoring services.
How long does air monitoring take?
The duration depends on the type of monitoring required. For clearance testing, air samples are typically collected over a minimum of 2 hours with a flow rate to achieve at least 480 liters of air. Background monitoring may be conducted over 4-24 hours. Our analysts will determine the appropriate duration based on the specific requirements and site conditions.
What happens if air monitoring fails?
If air monitoring results exceed the clearance indicator of 0.01 f/ml during 4-stage clearance testing, the area will require further cleaning and another round of air testing. The enclosure must remain in place until satisfactory results are achieved. For other types of monitoring, appropriate actions will be recommended based on the results and the specific circumstances.
Is your air monitoring UKAS accredited?
Yes, all our air monitoring and analysis is conducted by UKAS accredited analysts in accordance with ISO 17025 standards. This ensures the highest level of accuracy and reliability in our results, and that all testing meets the requirements of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and HSG248 guidance.
How quickly can you provide air monitoring results?
For clearance testing, we typically provide same-day results to minimize disruption to your operations. For other types of monitoring, results are usually available within 24-48 hours. In urgent situations, we can provide expedited services with results available more quickly. Please discuss your specific requirements with our team.
Request Air Monitoring Services
Our UKAS accredited analysts provide reliable air monitoring services across the UK. Contact us today to discuss your requirements or to schedule air testing for your site.
- UKAS accredited analysts
- Rapid turnaround for results
- Comprehensive documentation
- Service across the UK
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