HBM Laboratory is now open for sample drop-off. Please take a look HERE for information on sample size requirement and sample submission prior to coming to our office.
Our Services
Our Specialization
HBM Environmental Laboratory utilizes the WorkSafeBC’s approved NIOSH and EPA methods for asbestos air, bulk, and vermiculite insulation sample analyses (NIOSH 7400 & 9002 and EPA/600/R-04-004). Lead and mold analysis services are also available. Please contact us for more information.
Asbestos
Asbestos are mineral fibers that are naturally found in rocks and soil. These fibers are very fine to be seen with naked eyes, hence can only be detected with microscopes. Due to their fire, heat, and chemical resistant properties, asbestos was widely used in building materials until 1990. Researchers later discovered that exposure to air-borne asbestos fibers over a long period of time could lead to serious health problems. When inhaled, asbestos fibers reach deep into the lungs and can cause health conditions such as asbestosis (scarring of lungs), lung cancer, mesothelioma (a rare caner of lining of the chest or abdominal cavity), etc.. In order to prevent exposing to asbestos, if you are planning on renovating any construction built prior to 1990, it is crucial that building materials are tested before disturbing them. To avoid any conflict of interest, we strongly recommend hiring a separate party to perform laboratory analyses and abatement.
Asbestos Bulk Samples
Methodologies: NIOSH 9002, Issue 2 for bulk solid materials. EPA/600/R-04-004 for vermiculite insulation.
Commonly Tested Materials*:
- Drywall Mud (Joint Compound)
- Wall/Ceiling Texture (Popcorn Texture)
- Lath and Plaster
- Brick and Mortar
- Flooring and Mastic/Glue (e.g. Vinyl Floor Tile, Linoleum Flooring, Vinyl Sheet Flooring)
- Window Mastic
- Sink Putty
- Cement Board
- Gasket
- Siding
- Roofing Felt
- Ceramic Tile Grout
- Ceiling Tile
- Stucco
- Insulation
- Vermiculite Insulation
- And More
* Although the above listed materials are more likely to contain asbestos, HBM Environmental Laboratory analyze ALL layers of each submitted sample to ensure a thorough analysis of all components that will be disturbed.
We accept samples from asbestos surveyors who would like samples tested for generating Hazardous Material Assessments, and from contractors and homeowners who require analysis report for disposal purposes, or for their own knowledge. For contractors who would like to dispose of drywalls, please consult with the local drywall recycling facility if additional document (such as Hazardous Material Assessment) is required.
How to properly bag the sample(s) to prevent exposure of asbestos.
- Place sample in Ziploc/resealable bag or container.
- Use separate bags for multiple samples.
- Label each sample with the sample location (e.g. kitchen/bathroom, etc.)
- Double bag all samples in another Ziploc/resealable bag.
Call us today for information on testing asbestos in building materials.
Asbestos Air Samples
Methodology: NIOSH 7400
To ensure your occupant and worker’s safety, it is important to monitor the air quality in and around work areas during and after asbestos removal. During an asbestos abatement activity, asbestos air monitoring is required by WorkSafeBC to show your compliance with limits set by WorkSafeBC, NIOSH, and other regulatory agencies. For analysis, HBM Environmental Laboratory prepare filters from air cassettes samples, then use Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM) to count the amount of fibers detected in a given volume of air.
Lead Samples
Lead-based paint was widely used in houses and businesses built before 1960. It wasn’t until 1992 when interior paint produced in Canada and in the United States were almost free of lead. Therefore, homes and businesses that are older than 25 years need to be examined for possible lead contamination. Exposure to lead-based paint that are chipping, flaking, crushed, or in dust form can lead to health problems, especially after a prolonged period of exposure. Symptoms of lead exposure include developmental delays, learning disabilities, and behaviour issues in young children, anemia, vomiting, headache, joint and muscle pain, weight loss, abdominal pain, mood disorders, and increased chances of miscarriage, stillbirth, and premature birth in pregnant women.
Contact us today for information on checking lead concentration levels before disturbing any paint or coating.
Mold Samples
Molds are fungi that grow in multicellular filaments (hyphae) and reproduce by producing a large number of small spores. Mold can grow indoors or outdoors, and develop well in damp, warm, and humid environments. Mold can be found in essentially any environment or season, it can easily grow undetected and thrives in areas that are seldom seen, such as within walls, basements, crawl spaces, attics, or under carpets. Similar to asbestos, lead, and other hazardous materials, mold can be a serious threat to children and adults. Symptoms and signs of mold allergy includes sneezing, runny or blocked nose, itchy, watery eyes, and coughing. If you have asthma and are exposed to mold spores, your asthma symptoms may be triggered.
Contact us today for more information on how to check your home for mold.