Services
Asbestos Testing
What It Is
Asbestos testing identifies materials in a building that contain asbestos fibres. These materials were commonly used for insulation, fireproofing, flooring, ceiling texture, drywall joint compound, and more.
Why It’s Important
When disturbed (cut, sanded, or demolished), asbestos releases microscopic fibres that can cause severe respiratory diseases including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
In BC, WorkSafeBC regulations require that asbestos be identified before any renovation or demolition, regardless of building age.
What’s Involved
- Site Inspection – A certified surveyor identifies all possible asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).
- Sampling – Representative samples are taken from each suspect material type (e.g., drywall joint compound, vinyl flooring, insulation).
- Lab Analysis – Samples are tested via Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) at an accredited lab.
- Report – A detailed report identifies locations, material types, asbestos content, and recommendations for safe handling or abatement.
Common Asbestos-Containing Materials
- Drywall joint compound
- Textured ceilings (popcorn finish)
- Vinyl floor tiles & vinyl sheet flooring
- Pipe insulation & duct wrap
- Cement board, siding, or stucco
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Lead Testing
What It Is
Lead testing determines the presence of lead-based paint or coatings in a building. Lead was widely used for durability and pigmentation until it was slowly phased out in residential paints.
Why It’s Important
During sanding, cutting, or demolition, lead dust can spread easily and cause serious health effects, particularly neurological damage, anemia, and developmental issues in children.
WorkSafeBC requires identification and control of lead-containing materials before any work that could disturb them begins.
What’s Involved
- Visual Assessment – Identify areas likely to contain lead-based paint or coatings.
- Sampling – Paint chips or dust wipes are collected and analyzed by an accredited lab (using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy or XRF).
- Report – The report details lead concentrations and recommendations for safe removal, encapsulation, or containment.
Common Lead Sources
- Paint on wood trim, windows, and doors
- Painted masonry and metal surfaces
- Old plumbing fixtures and solder
- Glazed tiles and coatings
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Hazardous Material Survey
What It Is
A Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) Survey is a comprehensive inspection that identifies and documents all regulated hazardous materials that could be disturbed during renovation or demolition.
It’s the umbrella service under which asbestos, lead, silica, and other material testing fall.
Why It’s Important
This survey ensures:
- Worker and occupant safety
- Compliance with WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation 20.112
- Proper waste classification and disposal
- Prevention of environmental contamination
What’s Typically Included
- Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs)
- Lead-containing materials
- Silica (in concrete, mortar, tile, etc.)
- Mercury (from thermostats, lighting, etc.)
- Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
- Ozone-depleting substances (refrigerants)
- Mould or biological hazards (if applicable)
What’s Involved
- On-Site Survey – A certified inspector collects samples and documents all potential hazards.
- Laboratory Testing – Samples are analyzed by accredited labs.
- Comprehensive Report – The report maps out all hazardous materials, their condition, quantity, and safe removal procedures.