Asbestos Testing
If you suspect asbestos in your property, protect occupants and workers by confirming its presence through reliable asbestos sample testing. SESA specialise in asbestos laboratory analysis to accurately identify asbestos in building materials. We also provide clear guidance on the safe management and next steps to reduce asbestos-related risks. Contact SESA occupational hygiene team for asbestos testing and sample analysis services in Sydney, NSW and ACT.
What is Asbestos Sample Testing?
Asbestos Sample Testing is the process of collecting and analysing small representative material samples (such as insulation, floor tiles, cement sheeting, or roofing) to determine if they contain asbestos fibres. The testing is conducted in our SESALAB, a NATA-accredited laboratory (Accreditation No. 20403) under controlled conditions, utilising polarised light microscopy (PLM) method and if required, arrange samples for analysis by additional methods such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) or X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) through other partnering laboratories.
Professionals usually carry out testing before renovations, demolitions, or maintenance work to ensure safety and compliance. The results confirm whether asbestos is present and help guide the next steps for safe management or removal.
In addition, professional sample testing minimises the risk of fibre exposure, protects workers and occupants, and ensures all procedures meet Australian Standards (AS4964 and/or AS5370) and WHS Regulations. Early detection through accredited testing prevents costly delays and ensures that any asbestos handling is performed safely and legally in a compliant manner.
Professional NATA Accredited Asbestos Analysis
SESALAB offers fast and accurate asbestos analysis and testing across Sydney, Wollongong, Newcastle, and NSW. Using a laboratory accredited by NATA to ISO17025 & AS4964 and/or AS5370, you will obtain reliable results to help you identify asbestos fibres in bulk samples, building materials, and soil.
Why Asbestos Analysis Matters
Presence or absence of asbestos in a bulk or soil sample can only be confirmed through laboratory analysis. Our asbestos testing services identify fibre types including Chrysotile, Amosite, and Crocidolite, ensuring compliance with the NSW WHS Regulations.
Our Asbestos Test Methods
- Stereo microscope examination and Polarised Light Microscope (PLM) analysis to AS4964 and/or AS5370
- Partnering with other laboratories for advanced asbestos analysis with TEM, SEM, and EDS to AS5370
- Asbestos fibre identification carried out under Australian Standard AS4964 and/or AS5370 are reported as either No Asbestos Detected (NAD) or specifying the fibre type.
Safe Asbestos Sampling
Safe asbestos sampling prevents exposure and contamination. We follow:
- Safe Work Australia Code of Practice – How to manage and control asbestos in the workplace
- The National Guide for Asbestos Survey
- HSG 264 – Asbestos: The Survey Guide
What Materials May Contain Asbestos
Asbestos was commonly used in construction, building materials, and industrial products until its first ban in Australia in the mid 1980s and final ban in 2003. Identifying potential asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) is crucial for health and safety and environmental compliance, and preventing exposure by inhalation to harmful fibres. Common materials include:
- Cement sheets and corrugated roofing – often in older homes and sheds.
- Vinyl floor tiles and backing – especially pre-1980s installations.
- Sprayed coatings and insulation – on ceilings, walls, and pipes.
- Textured coatings – such as popcorn ceilings.
- Asbestos cement pipes – water and drainage systems.
- Gaskets, rope, and fire blankets – used in industrial settings.
- Old adhesives, mastics, and paints – may contain asbestos fibres.
Early detection through proper testing helps protect workers, occupants, and the environment, while ensuring workers carry out any renovation, demolition, or maintenance work safely and in compliance with work health and safety and environmental legislation.
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Asbestos Sampling Procedure
Safe and representative asbestos sampling is critical to protect both workers and building occupants. Disturbing asbestos-containing materials can release high risk respirable asbestos fibres, so competent personnel undertaking asbestos sampling must always follow correct procedures such as procedures in Appendix C of The Survey Guide.
Key Steps in Asbestos Sampling:
- Risk Assessment – Identify the materials to be tested and determine potential exposure risks.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Wear appropriate gear, including respirators, gloves, and disposable clothing.
- Correct Sampling Tools & Equipment – non-serrated pliers, knife, chisel, screwdrivers, core samplers or borers, spray bottle, wet wipes, H-Vacuum, PVA glue, etc.
- Controlled Sampling – Carefully collect small samples of suspected materials without creating dust or fibres.
- Containment & Labelling – Place samples in sealed, clearly labelled containers to prevent contamination.
- Documentation – Complete a Chain of Custody form detailing the sampling site, materials, and collector information.
- Submission to Laboratory – Send samples to a NATA-accredited laboratory like SESALAB for analysis.
Important: Never attempt to remove or disturb asbestos without adequate control measures and competence. Proper sampling ensures accurate results and maintains health & safety.
Why Choose SESA Certified Occupational Hygienists for Asbestos Testing & Analysis Services?
When it comes to asbestos assessment and management, extensive experience, accuracy, and compliance are essential. SESA team of qualified and certified occupational hygienists provides trusted asbestos testing and analysis across Sydney, Wollongong, Newcastle, and NSW.
Reasons to Choose SESA:
- NATA-Accredited Laboratory – SESALAB performs all testing, accredited to ISO17025 & AS4964, ensuring reliable and legally required results.
- Comprehensive Testing Services – From bulk samples and soil analysis to advanced fibre identification (PLM, TEM, SEM, EDS), we can assist in all types of asbestos tests.
- Expert Occupational Hygienists – Our team safely conducts sampling and analysis in compliance with legislative requirements.
- Fast Turnaround Times – Get accurate results quickly to make informed safety decisions.
- Practical Guidance – We provide clear advice on handling, managing, and mitigating asbestos risks.
- Compliance – Our methods follow the Safe Work Australia Code of Practice and best practice guidelines for asbestos identification.
Peace of Mind: Choosing SESA means you’re working with experts who prioritise safety, compliance, and accuracy at every stage of asbestos analysis.
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