If you suspect the presence of asbestos, a sample will need to be taken for analysis. Whether we take samples as part of our surveys, as a standalone sampling exercise, or our clients send samples to us, all sample analysis is carried out by our UKAS accredited laboratory.
To ascertain whether materials contain asbestos, and if so which type, analysis is generally carried out in a laboratory by phase contrast microscopy. For further detail analysis can also be carried out by electron microscopy however this is fairly expensive so is generally reserved for higher profile cases such as legal dispute and investigations.