How can asbestos content in materials be determined?

When you suspect asbestos is present in building materials, it is important to have the materials tested by a qualified laboratory. Visual inspection alone is not enough to identify the presence of asbestos.

It is recommended that you contact a certified asbestos consultant to take samples of potential asbestos containing materials and have them tested by a qualified laboratory.

A list of asbestos consultants who have been certified by the California Department of Industrial Relations, Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) for evaluating building materials and recommending a course of action may be obtained on the Internet at www.dir.ca.gov or by calling (916) 574-2993.

The certified asbestos consultant’s role is to protect the interests of the homeowner. The Consultant is prohibited from any financial tie to a contractor if one is needed to perform removal. A list of asbestos contractors registered with Cal/OSHA for doing asbestos-related work may be obtained by calling (415) 703-5190.