To test for asbestos, people typically take a small sample of the material which they think contains this substance. The sample is sent to a laboratory which uses highly sensitive equipment to detect asbestos fibers. Because asbestos can be very dangerous, many safety organizations recommend that people turn to professionals to extract samples for testing. In a situation where asbestos testing is required, a professional is also familiar with the paperwork and procedures necessary to make an asbestos test legal.

Asbestos is a type of fibrous mineral which happens to be very fire resistant. It was widely used in construction until the late 1980s, when asbestos began to be recognized as a health risk. In an inert form, asbestos is not harmful. However, when a product which contains asbestos is disturbed, it can release small pieces of asbestos fibers, which are extremely dangerous to inhale. Asbestos can be found in insulation, flooring, pipe lining, and other products with increased with resistance. A test for asbestos can reveal very low levels of asbestos fibers which could still be dangerous.

People should always test for asbestos when they are considering the purchase of an older structure. In some regions, such testing is mandatory for the sellers, and testing records are open to people who are interested in purchasing the structure. Asbestos testing should also be carried out before remodeling an older structure, or if things like floor tiles and insulated are obviously exposed and damaged.

A quick though not always accurate test for asbestos is to ask a professional who is familiar with the substance to visit the site. Plumbers and electricians often regularly interact with asbestos, and they can identify substances which may contain asbestos. However, the only way to truly test for asbestos is to send in a sample to a laboratory. Some companies sell asbestos test kits for consumers to collect their own samples with; if you choose to do this, please be very careful, and wear face protection while you gather the sample.

If an asbestos test confirms the presence of asbestos, you may be required to use specially trained contractors to remove the asbestos. These contractors are familiar with the procedures for handling asbestos, and they can ensure that the asbestos is safely and legally disposed of once they have removed it. Although this can be expensive, handling asbestos properly is both environmentally responsible and legally required. In addition, it can protect the health of you and other people who might use the structure in question.