EPA Sampling Guide Lines
Asbestos consultants are trained in the proper collection of samples for asbestos analysis. Typical precautions include:
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Make sure no one else is in the room when sampling is done.
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Wear disposable gloves or wash hands after sampling.
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Shut down any heating or cooling systems to minimize the spread of any released fibers.
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Do not disturb the material any more than is needed to take a small sample.
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Place a plastic sheet on the floor below the area to be sampled.
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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.
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Carefully cut a piece from the entire depth of the material using, for example, a small knife, corer, or other sharp object.
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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).
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Tightly seal the container after the sample is in it.
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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.
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Label the container with an identification number and clearly state when and where the sample was taken.
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Patch the sampled area with the smallest possible piece of duct tape to prevent fiber release.
Send your samples for testing to:
Orlando, Florida
Testing Laboratory
3303 Parkway Center Court
Orlando, FL 32808
Phone(407) 599-5887
Fax: (407) 599-9063