This Asbestos Test Kit is an NVLAP approved laboratory test that will accurately and reliably analyze your collected bulk sample for asbestos contamination to 1% content by weight, providing a professional lab report within one week of the lab"s receipt of your test sample(s).

Contents: One (1) sample collection bag; gloves; pre-paid postage envelope; information form.

What is Asbestos? Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral, made up of long, thin fibers that look similar to fiberglass. Because of its strengthening, heat and sound proofing capabilities, it has been used to make many different products including pipe insulation, ceiling and floor tiles, paints, caulking, exterior siding and stucco, wallboard (including joint compound and tape), wall and ceiling plaster, fire resistant clothing, and brake pads. Although the EPA has established a very broad ban on its use, it is still a health hazard in many buildings. Health Impacts: Asbestos is a known carcinogen. When inhaled--even in small amounts--asbestos fibers can cause a range of severe diseases including lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.

Important Note: Asbestos poses a health hazard only if fibers are released into the air. As asbestos becomes friable (chipped, cracked, crumbly, powdery, flaky or decayed), the fibers can be released into the air and then inhaled. Look for areas where asbestos has become water-damaged, dented, corroded, blistered, or otherwise damaged in a way likely to release fibers into the air. If asbestos has been damaged, so that it is getting into the air you breathe, it should be either removed or contained. NEVER ATTEMPT TO TEAR OUT ASBESTOS-CONTAINING MATERIAL YOURSELF; the danger of exposure during removal is much greater than the low level of exposure you face from undisturbed but damaged material. Always be cautious around suspected asbestos-containing materials.

In short, any building material that is not glass, wood, steel, yellow or pink fiberglass could contain asbestos and should not be disturbed until it has been tested. If you find damaged asbestos, DO NOT DISTURB IT. PRO-LAB does not intend for this information to be used as a guide or as instructions by anyone, whether they be trained and licensed professionals or not, for the disturbance of asbestos-containing materials.

For more information on asbestos and asbestos abatement, go to www.epa.gov/asbestos

Collection of Sample Note: The use of proper respiratory protection is advisable. When applicable, a plastic drop cloth should also be used.

1. Locate the sample location and suspected material.
2. Put on the enclosed plastic gloves to avoid contact between your skin and the sample.
3. Completely wet the sample location using a spray bottle with a soap and water solution (one teaspoon of soap per quart of water). The sample location should be kept wet throughout the sampling procedure to prevent the release of airborne fibers.
4. Collect the sample using a razor knife, chisel or another tool capable of securing a sample of the entire matrix. (Example: the underlying scratch coat beneath popcorn ceiling, pipe insulation and mastic on seams, vinyl flooring including any additional layers of vinyl and/or mastic.)
5. Place the sample in one of the enclosed sample bags and seal.
6. Completely fill out the information form. (analysis can not be conducted unless you submit all the information requested.)

Standard Lab Results: The PRO-LAB Professional Asbestos Kit requires a $30 lab fee in order to analyze the sample. Place the sample bags in the enclosed pre-paid postage envelope along with the information form, and a check, money order (made payable to PRO-LAB) or a credit card voucher for $30 per sample submitted. Mail immediately within 24 hours of the collection of the sample(s). Within two weeks after PRO-LAB has received your sample(s), the lab will send you an easy to read evaluation indicating the exact content of asbestos in your sample.

Express Fax Service; Express Service is available for an additional $15 per sample, or a total of $45 per sample. In order to use the express service, send the sample(s), the information form and proper payment to PRO-LAB using an overnight shipping company such as Federal Express or UPS. Refer to the test kit instructions for more information. Within 72 hours of the lab"s receipt, you will receive your faxed results.

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Test kit instructions