If you are planning a renovation, demolition, or even a minor repair on an older building, “asbestos” is a word that carries significant weight. At Northern Analytical Services (NAS), we believe that when it comes to hazardous materials, knowledge is your best protection.
Serving the entire state of Michigan, our licensed team specializes in helping facility managers and homeowners navigate environmental safety with confidence.
What is an Asbestos Survey?
An asbestos building inspection is a systematic search for Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACM). Because asbestos was prized for its heat resistance and durability, it was used in thousands of building products for decades.
Important Note: You cannot identify asbestos just by looking at it. A professional survey involves taking physical samples and analyzing them in a lab to confirm the presence and concentration of these fibers.
Where is it Hiding? (The Common Culprits)
Asbestos is frequently found in materials you might interact with every day, including:
- Thermal Insulation: Pipe wrapping, boiler jackets, and block insulation.
- Surfacing Materials: Acoustical plaster, decorative “popcorn” ceilings, and fireproofing.
- Flooring: Vinyl tiles (especially 9″x9″), sheet flooring, and the black “mastic” adhesive underneath.
- Walls & Ceilings: Drywall joint compound, ceiling tiles, and textured paints.
- Exterior: Asbestos-cement shingles, roofing felt, and flashing compounds.
Why is a Survey So Important?
- Preventing Health Hazards: When asbestos is disturbed (sanded, cut, or torn out), microscopic fibers are released into the air. Inhaling these can lead to serious respiratory diseases. Our goal is the prevention of health problems before they start.
- Legal Compliance: Federal and state regulations often require a certified asbestos survey before any demolition or renovation begins. Proceeding without one can result in heavy fines and immediate job site shutdowns.
- Budget Protection: Discovering asbestos after work has started is an expensive mistake. It leads to emergency abatement costs, contaminated equipment, and major delays.
You Found Asbestos—Now What?
Asbestos Project Designs: Your Blueprint for Safety
If your survey confirms the presence of asbestos, the next step isn’t just “tearing it out.” For larger or more complex projects, you need an Asbestos Project Design.
What is it?
A Project Design is a formal document created by a licensed professional that outlines the technical specifications, safety protocols, and work boundaries for the abatement contractor.
Why do you need one?
- Accurate Bidding: It provides “bid specifications” so you can get “apples-to-apples” quotes from contractors.
- Strict Safety: It ensures the containment area and air filtration meet all legal standards.
- Liability Protection: It proves you took the necessary steps to protect your employees and tenants.
- Control: Allows you, the building owner, to define the scope of work. Not the contractor you hire.
The NAS Advantage: More Than Just Testing
At Northern Analytical Services, we provide the licensed expertise needed to identify hazardous materials and create a safe plan for your project. Our comprehensive services include:
- Asbestos Abatement Project Management & Design
- Indoor Air Quality Investigations
- Lead-Based Paint, Mold, Bacteria, and Radon Testing
- Safety Training
Don’t leave your environmental safety to chance. Reach out to Northern Analytical Services today to schedule your survey and move forward with peace of mind.