With asbestos still present in many Australian homes built before the 1980s, homeowners need to be vigilant about testing for this dangerous material. However, most people don’t need to pay a professional for asbestos inspection and can reliably test it themselves with the right kit. After 20 years in the hazardous materials industry, the author has used and reviewed many asbestos testing kits available to Aussie homeowners. Here’s what readers need to know.
Popular asbestos testing kits
There are three main types of testing kits the author recommends for identifying asbestos around the home. These include:
- On-site test kits – These instant tests use chemicals to detect asbestos. Some popular at-home kits are the Asbestos Alert test kit and Asbex Rapid kit. While convenient and affordable ($15-$50), they can have accuracy issues identifying different asbestos types.
- DIY sample kits – For collecting and sending material samples to a lab for asbestos testing. Examples are products from companies like Safero Samples and SGS Audit Services. More accurate than on-site kits but the homeowner has to wait 1-2 weeks for results. Cost is $50-$150.
- Professional lab kits – Higher-end sample kits made specifically for asbestos inspectors but available if readers know where to purchase them. The gold standard is the UsEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA) testing method utilising Polarised Light Microscopy (PLM). Very accurate but expensive, priced from $100-$300 per test depending on the lab used.
Things to consider
From 20 years of experience, the writer notes some key considerations when asbestos testing:
- Asbestos type – Kits using PLM or infrared testing can identify all six types. Other methods may only confirm 1 or 2 common types. Make sure the kit can identify all types including the most dangerous amphibole forms.
- Sample analysis – On-site kits analyse tiny samples right away. Lab testing allows technicians to evaluate larger samples for more definitive results.
- Number of tests – Testing only one small area may not be enough, readers ideally want to take 5-10 samples from around each room for reliable results. Test kits that handle multiple tests are better.
- DIY risks – While sampling is generally considered low-risk, precautions are vital as disturbing asbestos makes it hazardous when airborne. Avoid crumbling materials and follow kit safety procedures carefully. Consider professional testing instead of DIY if severely deteriorated asbestos materials are present.
Top asbestos test kit pick
Based on performance, accuracy and balance of value, the writer’s current top recommendation for homeowners is the asbestos identification kit from SGS Audit Services. For $135, the homeowner receives a prepaid assay for analysis of 10 samples by experienced technicians using trusted EPA and Safe Work Australia testing methods. Multiple tests mean more reliable results. Instructions and tools are included for safe gathering of ceiling, flooring or insulation samples with minimal asbestos disturbance. Turnaround for lab results is also quicker than cheaper kits at 5-7 business days.
Conclusion
Using one of the above home asbestos testing kits responsibly allows Aussie homeowners to identify asbestos risks without paying thousands for professional inspections. While DIY asbestos testing has some challenges compared to lab analysis, the latest kits available in Australia now allow accurate identification if procedures are followed correctly. The author’s 20 years of hazardous materials experience indicates the SGS Audit Services kit provides the best professional-grade testing option for concerned yet budget-minded homeowners.
