As GSA Messgerätebau GmbH, we offer accurate fibre measurements for asbestos fibers and their analysis. It is always advisable to have the sampling for asbestos measurement and analysis carried out by experts. Our measurement technicians will be happy to advise you on all questions relating to sampling and subsequent fiber measurements for asbestos fibers. Contact us at any time so that an individual measurement concept can be developed. As an accredited testing laboratory, GSA Gesellschaft für Schadstoffanalytik is a competent partner at your side.
What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring, fibrous and silicate mineral with a fiber diameter ranging from 0.1µm to 2µm. Due to their chemical properties, such as low flammability and good thermal insulation, they were used in construction for a long time. The great danger posed by asbestos lies in the release of the fibers. The released asbestos fibers enter the lungs via the air and can cause irritation. Long-term exposure can lead to asbestosis (“asbestos lung”).
Where can asbestos be found?
It is difficult to make a general statement, but there are some indications that point to asbestos fibers. The year of construction can provide an indication. In 1993, asbestos was banned as a building material. Houses built between 1960 and 1980 that have not been extensively renovated very often contain asbestos. Due to its good heat storage properties, asbestos was often used as an insulating material. However, it was used in many different ways, which is why asbestos cement, asbestos-containing joint sealant, floor coverings or floor adhesives (e.g. for pile tiles) were also used. An initial suspicion arises, for example, from the color of a component, in the case of the above-mentioned adhesive it is black.
What to do in case of suspicion?
If asbestos is suspected, the suspected areas should be measured and analyzed immediately. This can be carried out by our measurement technicians. We will be happy to advise you on this. If you want to take samples of suspected asbestos-containing materials yourself, there are a few important points to bear in mind.
Fibre measurements for asbestos fibers (solid sample)
When sampling material that is suspected of containing asbestos, personal protection is always paramount. It is therefore necessary to wear a fine dust mask (FFP2) and, if necessary, other protective equipment, and it is generally important to prevent the release of dust and thus also fibers. (Further) damage to the affected areas and their surroundings should be avoided.
The sampling point must be well moistened. If possible, the sample should be cut out with a knife. The size of the sample should have an edge length of 2-4 cm. Once the sample has been taken, the area should be moistened again and then sealed (e.g. with adhesive, putty and/or fabric tape). The sample taken must be packed dust-tight in a small plastic bag. This packaged sample is then placed in a larger plastic bag and carefully labeled: place of sampling, date and additional information. After the sample has been taken, hands, knives and all equipment used must be thoroughly cleaned. Send the plastic bag with the sample and all required documents well packed to the GSA Gesellschaft für Schadstoffanalytik. Our analysts will carry out the analysis and discuss the results with you.
Sources:
[1]: https://www.gsa-ratingen.de/
[2]: https://blog.rathscheck.de/asbest-messen-wie-funktioniert-das
[3]: https://blog.gsa-messgeraete.de/asbest/