How to Collect a Sample for Asbestos Testing

Please note: Asbestos testing and sample collection should only be performed by trained professionals equipped with the proper personal protective equipment (PPE), equipment, certifications, and training. Improper handling of suspected asbestos-containing materials can release hazardous fibers into the air, posing serious health risks. For your safety and to ensure accurate results, always rely on certified experts for asbestos sampling and testing.

This article provides a detailed overview of the proper procedures for collecting samples of materials suspected to contain asbestos, ensuring safety and accuracy throughout the process. Understanding the correct sampling methods is essential to prevent contamination and protect both the person collecting the samples and the environment. This guide will walk you through each step necessary to gather representative samples suitable for laboratory testing. We encourage you to print this guide for easy reference during your inspection or testing preparation. Following these instructions carefully will help ensure reliable results and maintain safety standards.

Collecting asbestos samples should only be completed by those trained in asbestos awareness and bulk sample collection. If you haven’t been trained in locating and identifying suspect asbestos containing materials, you should contact your local asbestos testing service. We offer this service in the Winnipeg, MB Canada area.

Instructions for Collecting an Asbestos Sample

Step 1: Preparation

To complete the sample collection, you’ll need the following:

Tools you'll need:

HEPA vacuum with bag - must be certified and DOP tested

Professional core drill to minimize fiber release

Portable air scrubber may be recommended - Certified and DOP tested

Containment poly may be required

Chain of Custody for Laboratory

Two 6 mil poly bags

Tuck tape

A utility knife

Flat pry bar

Airtight container and/or Ziploc Bags

Permanent marker

Company information labels

Labels with identifying numbers (Labels must have duplicates)

Spray bottle containing water and small amount of dish soap

Camera (phone camera will do)

Ladder for higher locations or attics

Disposable spoon for vermiculite

Disposable rags to clean up moisture and debris

A pen

PPE You’ll need:

Tyvek suit rated for asbestos

Half/full face Respirator with P100 filters

Safety glasses

Latex and work gloves

Proper footwear

Step 2: Taking the Sample

1. Plan the preferred spot to collect the sample using local regulation best practices. Sample locations should be selected based on the most accurate results and not visual concern.

2. Prepare the work area with your tools, containment, filtration, vacuum, equipment and poly drop sheet as needed.

3. Prepare the container for material with labels.

4. Put on all required PPE, ensure no occupants are nearby for safety.

5. Spray the sample area surface to keep the area damp; this will help minimize airborne fibers. Turn on HEPA vacuum (and negative air if applicable).

6. Carefully use the core drill to remove a piece of the material. Or cut/scrape a piece of the material you’re sampling using a utility knife and/or flat pry bar. Ensure you take a sample that’s the entire thickness of the material. For loose materials, use a disposable spoon to get to the bottom.

Ex: for drywall compound, a sample from a wall corner is appropriate; we need a sample taken through the paint, tape and compound. For attic vermiculite, dig to the bottom and collect the debris/dust with the vermiculite as the asbestos fibers can settle at the bottom.

7. Place the sample in the labeled container, and seal the container. Label the sample location using the appropriate identification number and take a picture of the sample location for your report. Wipe down the container.

8. Vacuum the workspace and wipe it with a damp disposable rag.

9. Wipe down the equipment and tools with a damp rag.

10. Dispose of tyvek, gloves and rags/garbage/debris in double 6-mil poly bags and seal them using the gooseneck method, asbestos labels should be applied to the bags.

11. Clean respirator.

12. Fill out chain of custody

13. Drop off samples at local laboratory.

Ensure you take the required sample size. For solid materials, ensure you’re taking at least a sample of about 1.5 x 1.5 inches. For loose materials, collect approximately 2 tablespoons of material.  *Contact your local laboratory for material quantity requirements.

**Please note, more than 1 sample is typically required from each material. The province of Manitoba recommends that for items that were mixed on site (ceiling stipple, plaster, drywall joint compound, stucco, etc.) asbestos may not be spread uniformly throughout the materials; as such, 3 or more samples must be taken of these materials and submitted. Other materials may require more than one sample as well. Always follow local regulations and requirements when selecting the sample quantity.

*When completing your laboratory analysis report, always follow best practices and local regulations. Include all relevant information.

Containing and Preparing the Sample

Always follow local government and laboratory requirements for sample containers

1. Place the sample into a container or clean Ziploc bag, tightly seal the container/bag, then seal the top opening again with tape.

2. Wipe down the container/bag exterior with a clean rag and water to remove any dust/fibers.

3. Place the sample in a second container/bag and seal it.

4. Label the container/bag with location and sample ID information sticker along with any other locally required information.

5. Take a duplicate sample ID sticker, and stick it directly beside the location the sample was collected from.

6. Take a picture of the location the sample was collected from with the tape/sample ID visible.

7. Place all samples in another single container/bag.

8. Using a label or permanent marker, label the sample bag with:

Your company name, your phone number, email, test location address, any other required information from your local laboratory

Important Notice: Asbestos testing and sample collection must be carried out only by trained and certified professionals who are equipped with the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), tools, and safety training. Disturbing materials that may contain asbestos without proper precautions can release dangerous airborne fibers, putting your health and the health of others at serious risk. To protect yourself and ensure reliable results, always leave asbestos sampling and testing to qualified experts.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at 1-833-367-7354 or by email at info@reliefrestorations.com

Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only. Relief Restorations Inc. is not responsible or liable for any actions taken by individuals who choose to perform their own asbestos sampling or testing. Asbestos is a hazardous material, and improper handling can result in serious health risks and legal consequences. Always consult and follow local, provincial, and federal regulations, and ensure that any sampling or testing is performed by trained and certified professionals in accordance with applicable safety standards and guidelines. Proceeding without proper training, equipment, or certification is strongly discouraged and done entirely at your own risk. You may be turned away or reported if completing testing improperly or without proper certification.

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