Guidance
Asbestos sampling instructions ‑ how to take a sample correctly
A correctly taken sample gives a reliable analysis result. Read these instructions carefully before you take the sample. We recommend wearing protective equipment while sampling.
Safety
Necessary protective equipment
Recommended protective equipment
- FFP3 respirator (not a regular face mask)
- Disposable nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses or visor
- Protective coveralls or clothing if necessary
Sampling equipment
- Knife or chisel for removing the sample
- Minigrip bags (one per sample)
- Permanent marker pen for marking
- Notepad for location information
Step by step
Sampling step by step
Take a sample
Detach a small piece (about 2–3 cm) of the material to be examined.
Pack it in a Minigrip bag
Place the sample in a Minigrip bag or other tight plastic bag. Close the bag carefully. Pack each sample in its own bag if you are sending multiple samples.
Label the sample
Write the material and the location on the sample bag. Clear labelling keeps several samples apart.
Post the sample
Write "OneLab / Innosus Oy" as the recipient, then mail the envelope or small parcel to the laboratory. You can use standard letter mail or a parcel.
Or: bring it to the laboratory yourself
You can also drop the sample straight into the laboratory letterbox, which is accessible around the clock. Label the sample as instructed.
Once the sample has been taken, see the instructions for packing and shipping: sending an asbestos sample.
Frequently asked questions
Questions about sampling
Ready to take a sample?
Order an analysis online, take a sample according to the instructions and send it to the laboratory. Results on the day of arrival.