Asbestos in vermiculite insulation

Vermiculite insulation needs a larger sample than other building materials. The lab needs that volume for a reliable analysis.

Before you start

If the material is friable or heavily contaminated, have a licensed professional collect it. If you collect it yourself:

• shut down any heating or cooling system so released fibres do not spread
• wet the material lightly
• wear nitrile gloves and an N100 or P100 respirator
• never dry-disturb it

Collect and pack

1. Take each of the three samples from a different area.
2. Seal each sample in its own zip-seal bag, then seal that inside a second bag. Wipe the outside of both bags with a damp cloth.
3. Label each bag with the sample ID and location, matching the COC exactly.
4. On the COC, list each sample ID, the material (vermiculite), the location and the analysis you need, then sign and date it.

Send it

Drop off at 2333 US-22 West, Union, NJ 07083, Monday to Friday before 4 PM ET, or ship overnight with the COC inside the package. Bulk samples travel at ambient temperature, with no refrigeration.

Start the asbestos bulk COC, or download the bulk COC (PDF). If you are unsure which analysis to ask for, contact the lab or email support@irislaboratories.com.