Asbestos Testing

dodgydl

I have been advised that the bubble type artex on the ceilings and a wall in my house could contain asbestos.

I am planning on having a new kitchen done so would like to know either way if it does or not. Some work needs doing to the ceiling and if it contains asbestos I will over board and get it skimmed (and not drill holes in the existing ceiling for downlights we have planned!!!)

I have found quite a few places in my area that come out and do a survey (I presume pretty expensive) but I would just like to get a sample and send it to a lab myself (I am guessing a lot cheaper)

Can anyone recommend a lab and advise cost?? I am in the Reading, Berks area if that helps

London50

http://www.asbestostesting.co.uk/

Mr_Ted

or most asbestos removal specialists?

Niv

The problem with asbestos in artex is that there is so little present (if it contains it at all) that there is always a chance that it will not get picked up, so ensure that a decent sized sample is taken. If you are taking the sample yourself ensure teh sample is double bagged and preferably wear a p3 type disposable mask (although that is overkill for artex really).

dodgydl

London50 wrote: »

http://www.asbestostesting.co.uk/

Thanks. Have you used this company before???

spacey2012

If it contains low level Chrysotile, you can remove it yourself with the guidance on-line.

muks11

I recently used PASS UK to find out if the ceiling in my garage contains asbestos. They were cheaper than most and results were recieved within a couple of days.

dodgydl

muks11 wrote: »

I recently used PASS UK to find out if the ceiling in my garage contains asbestos. They were cheaper than most and results were recieved within a couple of days.

Exactly the sort of thing i was looking for. Thanks! :T

dodgydl

Just in case anyone comes across this thread in a search I thought I would update.

I used Pass UK for 2 lab tests (as suggested by muks11) and the service was great.
They sent me bags, pre paid envelope and instructions on how to take the samples. Cost around £20 per sample.
From ordering it took exactly a week before I received the results (that included me ordering, them sending the sample kit, me taking the samples, posting them back, them testing and sending me a report)

Very happy with the service!!

Ninnut85

When I was looking to have my house rewired I was informed by one of the electricians who came to quote that they wouldn't even touch the house without first me providing a certificate of proof that the artex didn't contain any asbestos. This was the first i'd ever heard of asbestos being in artex so I contacted Asbestos Watchdog and this is the reply they came back to me with.

"Artex of that vintage can contain small amounts of white [ chrysotile ] asbestos but it has no measurable risk to your health and would not be any reason for the workers to touch it. I have attached an article you will find useful"


Needless to say the electrician still refused to even quote without evidence the artex was safe.
Still got the house rewired though by a different company who didn't even ask about asbestos in the artex.