Last Updated on 26th July 2023 by max2021

If you are concerned there might be asbestos in your home or workplace, one option you have is to test the area and material you suspect contains ACMs – Asbestos Containing Materials.

This is not a commonly held skill. So like many people, you may head to Google to see what you can do. One way offered on the internet is to purchase a DIY testing kit that allows an untrained person to conduct an asbestos test. 

Are they reliable? Do you get accurate information back? Are they safe to use? All relevant questions to ask yourself. The safest recommendation is to contact a UKAS-accredited company to undertake any asbestos testing.

These trained professionals can conduct safe tests and provide an accurate response. Then you have the next big question—what can you do about it if it is asbestos?

What Is A DIY Asbestos Testing Kit

Most asbestos testing kits have a 2-step process. The kit will provide the equipment to take samples of suspected asbestos-containing substances.

You then have to post them to a laboratory for experts to analyse the samples and see if they are negative or positive for asbestos content. The cost of the analysis is often not included in the kit costs and can significantly increase what you have to pay out.

There are also testing kits where you can conduct the testing process yourself. The kits will include a chemical agent you apply to the suspected substance. You then need to read the results correctly and accurately.

Should You Use A DIY Asbestos Testing Kit

The decision is yours, but there are a few things you need to consider before purchasing an asbestos testing kit.

• First, a reminder that asbestos is dangerous; you are already concerned re that; otherwise, you would not be considering testing for it. However, do you know enough to avoid becoming overexposed while testing? Plus, do you know how not to damage the substance while extracting a sample, putting yourself and others in the building at risk? If the answer to these questions is no, then it may be in your best interests to call in a trained company like Armco Asbestos Surveys.
• Asbestos fibres are tiny, microscopically tiny, and are often mixed with other substances making identification of asbestos difficult, especially if you have no previous experience analysing asbestos.
• The test for asbestos is usually of old substances, and as such, they crumble easily (friable). Any disturbance can release asbestos fibres into the air; they can then be inhaled and wreak havoc on the lungs of anyone who inhales them.
• The testing kits should contain masks and PPE, but these protective garments quality is not guaranteed.
• Before sampling, you have to seal the area to avoid the spread of the fibres. You have to do this effectively to prevent contamination.

If you are in doubt about any of the above, please call the experts to undertake a safe and professional test where the safety of yourself and others is paramount.

Published Jul 13, 2023