Asbestos Testing Services in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Aurora
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral composed of thin, durable fibers known for their resistance to heat, fire, and chemicals. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, they release microscopic fibers into the air, which can be inhaled and lead to serious health issues like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Many homes and commercial buildings in Colorado contain asbestos in older construction materials, making its presence a potential health risk during renovations, demolitions, or repairs. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) mandates professional asbestos inspections and testing in a variety of scenarios, including remodeling projects and property demolitions, to identify and address this hazardous material safely.
At ECOS, we have been assisting local clients with asbestos projects for more than 20 years. We are a CDPHE-Certified Asbestos Consulting Firm (ACF #14480) and are dedicated to keeping properties safe from the harmful consequences of asbestos. Our team is equipped and trained to handle just about any project, and we work well with insurance companies.
We recognize that going through the asbestos testing process can be stressful, but we are here to provide solutions-oriented support and guidance. Our asbestos professionals focus heavily on the health and safety of our clients and have a strong track record of managing these projects from beginning to end.
When Is Asbestos Testing Required in Colorado, and What Does It Involve?
You will likely need an asbestos inspection before starting any significant residential or commercial remodel, renovation, or demolition project. This is true even if the structure was built after the 1980s.
Additionally, asbestos testing is absolutely required for residential properties in Colorado if you:
- Plan to remove more than 50 linear feet
- Plan to remove more than 32 square feet
- Accumulate the equivalent of a 55-gallon drum of any material besides wood, bricks, concrete, or steel
- Intend to completely demolish a building
Asbestos testing is also required for commercial properties in Colorado if your company:
- Plans to remove more than 260 linear feet
- Plans to remove more than 160 square feet
- Accumulates the equivalent of a 55-gallon drum of any material besides wood, bricks, concrete, or steel
- Intends to completely demolish a building
Note that the CDPHE takes these rules extremely seriously and will levy significant fines for violations. If you have questions about whether your project requires an asbestos inspection and testing, we encourage you to consult our team at ECOS before proceeding.
During an initial visual asbestos inspection, one of our certified asbestos inspectors will evaluate structural elements that may contain asbestos and could be affected by the work, including:
- Flooring and tiles
- Roofing and walls
- Ceiling materials
- Insulation
- Pipe coverings
After completing the inspection and identifying potential asbestos-containing materials, our asbestos inspector will carefully collect material samples for laboratory testing using specialized tools designed to minimize fiber release. Our inspector will select specific areas that present risks based on their visual assessment and the condition of the materials. They will also document each sampling site with detailed notes and photographs for record-keeping and reference during further analysis.
After collecting the samples, the focus shifts to proper handling and transportation to the laboratory. Our inspector will carefully secure each sample in a sealed, labeled container with precise information about its origin. Our inspector will then transport the secured samples to an accredited laboratory equipped to analyze asbestos materials. This step is extremely important, as it maintains the chain of custody and the integrity of the samples during transit.
Once at the laboratory, certified professionals use advanced analytical techniques like polarized light microscopy (PLM) or transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to identify and measure asbestos fibers. These methods allow the laboratory to determine the type and concentration of asbestos present (or not) in the samples. The laboratory will compile the results from the analysis into a detailed report that reviews the findings and provides key information about the material’s safety and the recommended next steps for handling or abatement.
We have a live operator on call 24/7 to schedule your asbestos testing in Colorado, so don’t wait to call (888) 868-5420 or contact us online. We also offer weekend appointments!
What Do My Asbestos Test Results Mean?
Asbestos test results can be confusing if you don’t know how to interpret them. Fortunately, we provide our clients with an asbestos report that clearly explains what samples tested positive and what samples did not.
Asbestos testing can result in one of three outcomes. If the test results come back 0%, no asbestos abatement is required. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates abatement if the test results are greater than 0%. The CDPHE mandates a Regulation 8 abatement if the test results are 1% or greater.
Our team can walk you through what the test results mean for your project and how you need to proceed. We also offer professional asbestos abatement services and can help you meet all legal and safety requirements.
We Can Handle Large-Scale Commercial Asbestos Testing Jobs
Our large asbestos testing staff allows us to take on residential and commercial jobs of all sizes. For example, ECOS recently completed a commercial project that had buildings located in six different cities. We have also completed asbestos testing work for the United States government. No matter the scope or complexity of your job, we are confident we can help you with asbestos testing in Colorado.
We can provide guidance throughout the entirety of the asbestos testing process. Schedule your inspection today by calling (888) 868-5420 or contacting us online!