Instructions
Instructions for asbestos samples
This guide explains, step by step, how to take an asbestos sample safely, pack it correctly and send it to the Onelab laboratory. A properly taken and packed sample is what makes the results reliable.
+ VAT / sample · PDF report by email on the day the sample arrives
Overview
Three steps - it's that easy
Get ready
Get the supplies: protective gloves and a Minigrip bag. A respirator (e.g. FFP3) is not mandatory, but we recommend it. Make sure the order is placed before sampling.
Take a sample
Remove a piece about 2-3 cm across. Avoid crushing it or creating extra dust. Wear protective gloves.
Pack and label
Put the sample into the Minigrip bag and seal it. Write the material and location on the bag. One sample per bag.
Safety
Safety instructions for sampling
Use protective equipment
Wearing a respirator is not mandatory, but we recommend disposable gloves and an FFP3-class respirator while sampling. An FFP3 respirator filters fine particles effectively. You can buy protective equipment at a hardware shop or online.
Minimise dust
Remove the sample carefully, without heavy hammering or drilling. The aim is an intact piece of material, not crumbled dust. If the material is fragile, take the piece especially gently.
Clean up after yourself
Wipe the sampling spot with a damp cloth. Do not vacuum - an ordinary vacuum cleaner blows asbestos fibres into the air. Put used gloves and cloths into a plastic bag and dispose of them properly.
Sampling
Detailed sampling instructions
Which materials should be sampled?
Asbestos can be present in many building materials used before 1994. The most common materials containing asbestos are:
Correct sample size
The ideal sample is a piece about the size of a matchbox (2-3 cm). It does not need to be large - a small intact piece is enough for JEOL SEM-EDS analysis. If the material is layered (a tile plus its bedding mortar, for example), take the sample so that every layer is included. That way we can analyse each layer separately.
Taking several samples
If you want several materials examined, take a separate sample from each one. Pack each sample in its own Minigrip bag and mark clearly which material it is and where it came from. Order an analysis for each sample.
Packing
Packaging instructions
- 1
Place the sample in the bag
Put the material sample in a Minigrip bag or another resealable plastic bag. Close the bag tightly.
- 2
Label the sample
Write the sample material and location on the bag (e.g. "kitchen, wall tile").
- 3
Pack for shipping
Put the sample bags into an envelope or a padded mailer. If you are sending more than one sample, they can share the same envelope.
- 4
Write the address
Write Onelab's postal address on the envelope. The exact address is in your order confirmation email.
- 5
Take it to the post
Send the envelope or parcel by post. An ordinary letter is enough - the sample is not classed as dangerous goods in the post.
Shipping
Shipping instructions
Postal delivery
The easiest way is to send the sample as an ordinary letter or a small parcel via Posti. A small sample fits in an envelope. Postage is inexpensive, and we analyse the sample on the day it reaches us. Postage costs are not included in the price of the analysis.
Sending a parcel
Larger samples, or several samples together, are best packed in a padded bag or a small parcel. You can send it from a Posti parcel locker or service point.
Important to remember
- Mark each sample bag with the material and location
- The sample is not classed as dangerous goods in the post - no special markings are needed
- You receive the exact postal address by email when you order
- If the sample breaks in transit, contact customer service
Ready to order an asbestos analysis?
Order online and get clear instructions for sending the sample.