Asbestos Abatement: What if the air samples or bulk samples collected continue to show the presence of asbestos?

The presence of asbestos fibers, either in air samples or bulk samples, does not necessarily require abatement. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral. It was also used in many products including brake linings on cars. Therefore, some background level of fibers could exist in the air. Asbestos material in a building component may not need to be removed if it is in good condition. Asbestos containing materials pose a health risk when they become damaged and crumble, releasing asbestos fibers into the air.

Courtesy of the New York State Health Department