Asbestos Inspection
What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous material with exceptional tensile strength, poor heat conduction, and resilience to chemical corrosion. The main forms of asbestos are chrysotile (white asbestos) and crocidolite (blue asbestos). Other forms include amosite, anthophyllite, tremolite, and actinolite. These durable properties have been utilized for centuries dating back to ancient Greece when the material was spun into cloth to be made into blankets and tablecloths, and during the Roman Empire, citizens lit ceremonial candles with asbestos wicks. When production was relatively inexpensive during the late 19th century, a mass abundance of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) created a widespread desire to utilize asbestos in building materials. However, adverse health effects related to asbestos-containing materials (ACM) began to show during the early 1970s, which slowed production drastically. Federal regulations in the 1980s paved the path for reform; however, in some cases, a reliable product for asbestos could not be substituted, which meant ACM products are still manufactured today.
Some examples of products that may contain asbestos, but are not limited to, are listed as follows:
- Sheetrock
- Joint Compound
- Wall Texture
- Cove Base Mastic
- Resilient Floor Tile with Mastic or Glue
- Carpet Glue
- Wall Insulation with Paper Backing
- Attic Insulation with Paper Backing
- Pipe Insulation
- Caulking
- Window Glazing
- Fire Stop
- Vibration Damper
- Roof Shingles
- Exterior Siding
When ACM is undisturbed and in good condition, these products function as intended and remain unharmful. However, if in poor condition, these products deteriorate and break apart. Especially, during renovation and/or demolition, asbestos fibers can break down and become airborne, which then can be inhaled and potentially cause serious carcinogenic health issues years later.
Testing Process
Our goal is to provide a comprehensible survey, in compliance with the Texas Department of State Health Service (TDSHS) and EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) guidelines, at a reasonable cost. We locate suspect materials and discreetly collect samples with minimal intrusion in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
Once the inspection is complete, the samples are sent to an NVLAP (National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program) certified lab to determine whether the materials are asbestos-containing, and if so, how many and whether the amount is considered dangerous.
After receiving the results, we'll assemble a finalized report comprised of a summary and findings, drawing(s), photographs, and lab reports with the chain of custody. At Fercam Group, we're here to answer any questions to the best of our knowledge and provide the best outcome regarding your health and safety.
Abatement Design, Oversight, and Air Monitoring
To ensure high standards for our clients, we go to great lengths to assemble a detailed Specification (SPEC) that accurately explains how the materials will be removed. With a certified technician onsite, we diligently document and record the daily progress of the workers, while upholding safety standards under the law.
Once the contractor has removed the ACM (asbestos-containing materials), our technician will do a final walkthrough for overall cleanliness and confirmation that all ACM is no longer present. After the walkthrough, the technician will set up final clearance samples to be analyzed afterward. Once samples pass an examination, abatement workers will begin the tear-down phase of the containment(s). Our collective goal is safety, efficiency, and quality.