USEPA Sampling Guide Lines

Asbestos consultants are trained in the proper collection of samples for asbestos analysis. Typical precautions include:

• Make sure no one else is in the room when sampling is done.

• Wear disposable gloves or wash hands after sampling.

• Shut down any heating or cooling systems to minimize the spread of any released fibers.

• Do not disturb the material any more than is needed to take a small sample.

• Place a plastic sheet on the floor below the area to be sampled.

• Wet the material using a fine mist of water containing a few drops of detergent before taking the sample. The water/detergent mist will reduce the release of asbestos fibers.

• Carefully cut a piece from the entire depth of the material using, for example, a small knife, corer, or other sharp object.

• Place the small piece into a clean container (for example, a 35 mm film canister, small glass or plastic vial, or high quality resealable plastic bag).

• Tightly seal the container after the sample is in it.

• Carefully dispose of the plastic sheet. Use a damp paper towel to clean up any material on the outside of the container or around the area sampled. Dispose of asbestos materials according to state and local procedures.

• Label the container with an identification number and clearly state when and where the sample was taken.

• Patch the sampled area with the smallest possible piece of duct tape to prevent fiber release.

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

200 Route 130 North 
Cinnaminson, NJ 08077 
ATTN: ASBESTOS TESTING LAB