ASBESTOS LAB SERVICES

Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) is the preferred method used to confirm the presence or absence of asbestos in bulk building materials.  No other method can provide as much characterization data as cheaply and rapidly, with as much sensitivity as the polarized light microscope.  Positive identification of asbestos requires the determination of the optical properties of suspect fibers, which match the characteristic properties of the six regulated asbestos types.  Analysis of a NIST SRM, preferably amosite, is used as a check sample to ensure that the microscope observation of all the optical properties of asbestos are accurate.  Quantification of asbestos content is routinely accomplished by visual estimation.  

Our laboratory performs analysis on various bulk samples including bulk building materials following EPA published methods, semi-quantitative analysis by gravimetric and point count methods, analysis of soil samples according to the California Air Resources Board 435 published method, and qualitative analysis of soils, dust and debris.  

Accredited by the by the National Voluntary laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP ID 200358-0, 200982-0, 201014-0, 201022-0), Patriot’s PLM Bulk Asbestos laboratory is held to high quality control and assurance standards in conformance to ISO 17025.  This involves measures such as on-going internal site reviews and proficiency testing to ensure that all processes of the laboratory are precise, accurate and controlled.  

• EPA 600/R-93/116 
• NESHAP Point count-400 points 
• Point Count Modified- 1000 points 
• CARB 435 Gravimetric Reduction 
• Qualitative Analysis on Soils and Dust Samples

PCM laboratory performs analysis in compliance with NIOSH 7400 Method on clearance, personal and ambient air samples for the determination of fiber count in the air before, during and after asbestos removal.  We participate in the American Industrial Hygiene Association in Proficiency Analytical Testing rounds for airborne fibers (ID 102858).  This analytical exam is used to compare the preparation and analysis techniques of participating industrial hygiene laboratories nationwide.  Our laboratory consistently performs with excellent scores, often at or near reference values for every analyst.  

Patriot’s highly experienced and extensively trained staff, ensures reliable and accurate results that are delivered according to the specified turnaround time.

• NIOSH 7400-A   . Airborne Fiber Count by Phase Contrast Microscopy 
• Rotometer Calibration using a regularly calibrated Gillibrator