If a chunk of suspect material has already broken off, you can take a sample yourself as long as there is no risk of spreading debris or exposing yourself to dust. Here’s how the UK’s Health and Safety Executive advises you carry out asbestos sampling:
- Watch where you walk – it’s best not to spread dust or pieces of material around
- Dampen the sample – this helps stop dust escaping
- Place it in a self-sealing polythene bag – so dust and particles can’t escape
- Put this in a second self-sealing bag – just to be doubly safe
- Label it – so everyone knows what’s in the bag. Also include the source, your contact details, and the destination.
