Asbestos Air Monitoring

Intertek's asbestos air monitoring solutions in New Zealand include multiple approaches.

Asbestos air monitoring involves drawing air through a filter so that airborne particles are collected. The filter is then examined under a microscope and the fibre concentration is calculated.

After the filter has been prepared for microscopical examination, a known fraction of the filtered deposit is examined under a phase contrast microscope to count the amount of fibres present. Using the information gathered a fibre concentration (given in fibres/ml) is calculated.

Shown below are some of the air monitoring solutions Intertek offers.

Background Sampling

This involves strategically placing sampling devices to establish pre-existing fibre levels in the air before any activity which may disturb the asbestos commences.

Leak Testing

Used to ensure the leak prevention methods remain effective and no airborne respirable fibres are being released. Particularly useful when vital areas near the enclosure are being occupied.

Personal Exposure Monitoring

This form of monitoring is useful for many reasons, the most common of which is the safety of asbestos removal workers. It used to assess whether safe methods of asbestos removal are being applied and whether the masks worn are fit for purpose.

Clearance Site Certification for Reoccupation

Air monitoring is required for any site to obtain a site clearance and reoccupation certificate.

Reassurance Sampling

Conducted in certain circumstances, reassurance sampling confirms that residual asbestos fibre concentrations are at a safe level, for example after the removal of an enclosure.