If your building was constructed in 1990 or later, you likely do not have asbestos in it. On the other hand, if your building is older, you probably have insulation, countertops, fiberboard, adhesives and other components containing fibers made from this substance.
When taking samples to send for testing, you must protect yourself from any fibers released into the air when you conduct testing. Turn off fans and air conditioning to keep the air as still around you as possible. You must also wear protective clothing, gloves, goggles, a face mask, shoe covers, pants and long sleeves. Cover all surfaces with plastic drop cloths. You must discard everything you wear and use during the testing afterward.
Wet down the surrounding area to reduce dust. Take a sample of the material you want to test per the test kit instructions. If collecting samples from multiple sites in a large building, you likely will need bulk sampling kits.
Once collected, seal the sample and clean up the area. Do not use a standard vacuum but select one with a HEPA filter to prevent dust collected in the bag from releasing to the air.
Send the sample to a testing company and await the results. If you have positive results from any test locations, indicating asbestos, you will need to control the product’s release into the air.