Asbestos Inspections

What - Asbestos is not just one material; it is a group of naturally occurring silicate minerals that form long, thin, and very durable fibers. These fibers are resistant to heat, fire, chemicals, and electricity, which is why asbestos was widely used in building materials for decades. Understanding the asbestos inspection process is crucial for identifying any remaining materials in older buildings.  

Why - Although useful, asbestos fibers are toxic and carcinogenic when inhaled. When disturbed, the fibers can become airborne and lodge deep in the lungs, leading to serious diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Ensuring asbestos safety compliance is essential to protect occupants and workers in environments where asbestos may be present.  

Where - Asbestos is still present in many buildings, especially those constructed before 1980, in a wide range of materials, including:  

• Thermal insulation  

• Floor tiles and mastic  

• Ceiling tiles  

• Joint compound  

• Roofing materials  

• Pipe insulation  

• Caulking  

• Exterior siding  

• Textured coatings  

• Vinyl flooring  

• And more.  

Asbestos sampling is a key step in testing and verifying the presence of asbestos in these materials.

1) Initial Assessment - The asbestos inspection process begins with inspectors reviewing building history, construction records, and any known renovation timelines to identify where asbestos containing materials (ACM) may be located. Engaging in conversations with property owners or managers helps highlight areas of concern, thereby guiding the focus of the inspection.

2) Visual Inspection - A certified inspector performs a thorough walkthrough of the property, examining various materials such as insulation, ceiling tiles, flooring, pipe wrap, roofing, and wallboard. Special attention is paid to damaged or "friable" materials, which can easily crumble and pose a higher risk of releasing airborne fibers, ensuring asbestos safety compliance throughout the inspection.

3) Sampling and Laboratory Analysis - Once suspect materials are identified, small samples are collected following strict safety protocols as part of the asbestos sampling process. These samples are then sent to accredited laboratories for analysis, typically utilizing polarized light microscopy (PLM) or transmission electron microscopy (TEM), to confirm the presence of asbestos and determine its type and concentration.

A detailed report outlines all findings from the asbestos inspection process, identifies confirmed ACMs, and provides clear guidance on next steps—whether that involves monitoring, encapsulation, or removal. These reports also ensure asbestos safety compliance with federal and state regulations, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), National Emission Standards for Hazardous Health (NESHAP), and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Additionally, they often include recommendations for asbestos sampling to support ongoing safety measures.

Inspections are often required before demolition, renovation, or property transfer. Federal regulations under the Asbestos NESHAP standard mandate that the asbestos inspection process must be conducted to identify asbestos-containing materials before any demolition or renovation begins. North Carolina’s Health Hazards Control Unit (NC HHCU) reinforces this requirement, stating that only an accredited asbestos professional can perform the necessary inspections to ensure asbestos safety compliance. Licensed and accredited professionals are essential for conducting these inspections and asbestos sampling to guarantee safety and regulatory adherence.