Asbestos

Paracel Laboratories Ltd. provides two separate analyses for asbestos, polarized light microscopy (PLM) and phase contrast microscopy (PCM). 

  • PLM analysis in bulk building materials, based on EPA Method 600/R-93/116
  • PCM analysis for fibers in air, protocol outlined by NIOSH 7400 
 

Bulk Asbestos Sample Submission Details

For your safety and the safety of our staff, and in keeping of the Canada Labour Code, EACC, Ontario’s Occupational Health & Safety Act and our internal policies, we would like to remind you of the following when submitting bulk samples for Asbestos analysis to any of our 9  locations throughout Ontario.

  • Please ensure that all samples are individually and securely sealed in a ziplock bag, and then package together in a second outer ziplock bag (‘double bag’) prior to submission to the laboratory.
  • Please ensure the outside of the outer bag is free of debris that may potentially contain asbestos, by wiping the outer bag with a damp paper towel.
  • Please do not submit your COC inside the outer ziplock bag.
  • Please do not staple your COC to the outer bag.        

And, to ensure processing of your samples without delay:

  • Please ensure that all samples are clearly labelled and that the labelled sample is clearly identified and matched on the COC .
  • When submitting samples of Vermiculite, please collect a full 9 1/2 x 11 ziplock bag, collecting material from the bottom half of the insulation or from the bottom of a wall cavity to ensure collection of fine dust.  Without adequate amounts of this dust included, the sample may be considered not representative, and it may not be possible to analyze.    

Asbestos samples are analyzed at our Ottawa West and Mississauga Laboratories however, may be dropped off at any of our locations. 

Thank you for your co-operation in maintaining the health and safety of our staff.  Our service group is available by phone or email for any questions or concerns you may have.