Asbestos removal is a critical process in maintaining safe environments in buildings where asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) have been identified. The final step in this process, known as final air clearance testing, is essential to ensuring that the abatement was successful, and that the area is safe for re-occupancy. This testing is not just a best practice it is a regulatory requirement for some projects. If it is required for your project Apogee will include it in your estimate. If it is not required for your project but you are still interested in getting one done, please notify your project manager and it can be added to the invoice. It is important to note that Apogee Environmental Solutions contracts out the final air testing to a third party environmental consultant to ensure un-biased results.
The Importance of Final Air Clearance Testing
Final air clearance testing is conducted after all asbestos removal and cleaning activities have been completed. The testing involves collecting air samples from the abated area, which are then analyzed to determine the concentration of asbestos fibers remaining in the air. The results must show that the asbestos fiber concentration is below the permissible exposure limit as defined by Ontario Regulation 278/05.
The key objectives of final air clearance testing are:
Verification of Abatement Success: This testing confirms that the abatement was effective and that the environment is safe for occupants.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring that the air quality meets the standards set by Ontario Regulation 278/05 helps avoid legal and financial repercussions.
Occupant Safety: The health and safety of building occupants are paramount, and final air clearance testing provides assurance that the environment is free from harmful asbestos fibers.
Steps Involved in Final Air Clearance Testing
Preparation of the Area: Before testing, the abated area is sealed off to prevent contamination from adjacent spaces. Any equipment used during abatement is cleaned or removed.
Air Sampling: Air samples are collected using high-volume pumps that draw air through a filter, capturing any airborne asbestos fibres. The number and location of samples depend on the size of the area and the complexity of the abatement project.
Laboratory Analysis: The collected samples are sent to a laboratory accredited by the Canadian Association for Laboratory Accreditation (CALA). The analysis involves counting asbestos fibers under a microscope, using either phase contrast microscopy (PCM) or transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
Evaluation of Results: The results are compared against the threshold limit values specified in Ontario Regulation 278/05. If the fiber concentration exceeds the allowable limits, further cleaning and testing are required until the area meets the necessary standards.
Documentation and Reporting: Once the area passes the final air clearance test, a detailed report is prepared, documenting the procedures, results, and compliance with Ontario Regulation 278/05. This report is crucial for regulatory compliance and should be kept on file.
Final air clearance testing is a vital component of asbestos abatement, ensuring that the abatement process has been successful, and that the environment is safe for occupants. Adhering to the procedures outlined in Ontario Regulation 278/05 not only ensures compliance but also protects the health and well-being of everyone who interacts with the building.
For more detailed information on Ontario Regulation 278/05, you can refer to the full text of the regulation here.
Thank you for taking the time to read our blog and learn more about the comprehensive measures we take to ensure safety during asbestos removal projects. At Apogee Environmental Solutions, your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities. If you have any questions or would like to discuss how we can assist with your next project, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help, and we look forward to the opportunity to work with you
+1 (343) - 988 - 0970
Editor: Carter H.
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