Accredited Asbestos Clearance Testing
Works involving the removal of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) require two-stage monitoring of asbestos fibre concentrations in air. A baseline measurement before works establishes the background fibre level. A clearance measurement after works confirms that fibre concentrations have returned to an acceptable level and the area can be returned to use. OIKOS performs PCM measurements under PCA accreditation No. AB 934 (PN-EN ISO/IEC 17025) — results recognised by the National Labour Inspectorate, Sanitary Inspectorate and building supervision authorities.
Why OIKOS for Asbestos Clearance
Four reasons our asbestos clearance testing stands out — air fibre and bulk material analysis from one accredited laboratory:
- Measurements performed by phase contrast microscopy (PCM) per regulatory requirements — results recognised by supervisory authorities and labour inspectorates
- Material sample (bulk sample) testing identifies asbestos type and content: serpentines (chrysotile) and amphiboles (crocidolite, amosite, anthophyllite)
- The clearance measurement report forms the basis for handing back the work area to the investor or property manager
- AB 934 accreditation guarantees credibility of results and acceptance by the National Labour Inspectorate, building supervision, and other authorities
Baseline & Clearance — PCM Air Sampling and Bulk Material Testing
OIKOS performs both baseline and clearance measurements by phase contrast microscopy (PCM) in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements. The laboratory also offers material sample (bulk sample) testing of suspected building materials, enabling identification of the type and content of asbestos: serpentines (chrysotile) and amphiboles (crocidolite, amosite, anthophyllite).
The clearance test report constitutes documentation confirming site safety after completion of dismantling works and is required under regulations governing asbestos waste management and occupational safety.
OIKOS has been performing asbestos-related testing for over 35 years, supporting contractors and property managers throughout ACM removal programmes. Results are recognised by the National Labour Inspectorate, the State Sanitary Inspectorate and building supervision authorities throughout Poland.
Methods & Instruments
Methods
Phase-contrast microscopy (PCM) — measurement of respirable fibre concentration after asbestos work; material identification by polarising microscopy with dispersion staining colour identification.
Instruments
Phase-contrast optical microscope, polarising microscope, asbestos samplers (MCE filters), sampling pumps, Walton-Beckett graticule.
Reference documents
PN-ISO 10312:2002; WHO/Europe 1997 method; PN-EN ISO 16000-7.
FAQ
Asbestos Clearance Questions
When are asbestos fibre measurements required?
Asbestos fibre concentration measurements in air are required before the start and after completion of works involving the removal of asbestos-containing materials. This obligation arises from the Regulation of the Minister of Economy, Labour and Social Policy on the methods and conditions for safe use and removal of products containing asbestos.
What is a clearance measurement and how does it differ from a baseline measurement?
A baseline measurement is taken before dismantling works begin to establish the background fibre level in the vicinity. A clearance measurement is taken after works are complete and the site has been cleaned — its purpose is to confirm that asbestos fibre concentrations in air do not exceed the permissible value and the area is safe to hand back.
What is the difference between air fibre concentration measurement and material sample testing?
Air fibre concentration measurement (by PCM) assesses exposure to inhaled asbestos fibres at a given point in time and location. Material sample (bulk sample) testing is performed on a piece of building material to confirm whether it contains asbestos, what type (chrysotile, crocidolite, amosite, etc.) and at what percentage content. Both types of testing may be required at different stages of a project.