Glass wool, also known as glass fibres, is a type of synthetic material derived from melted glass. Widely used as insulation in attics and homes, these fibres can become airborne during renovations, posing potential health risks to occupants.
At LCS Laboratory Inc., we provide a convenient DIY sampling kit and laboratory analysis service for detecting glass fibres in residential air. This test is particularly valuable for monitoring the residual concentration of fibres that may linger in the air following significant renovations. Prolonged exposure to airborne glass fibres can irritate the skin, eyes, nose, and throat, causing symptoms such as itching, coughing, or wheezing.
Understanding Glass Fibre Concentrations
The presence of glass fibres in the air is quantified in fibres per cubic centimetre (ff/cc). While the ideal concentration is non-detectable, achieving this in practical scenarios can be challenging. Complicating matters further, government regulations do not specify safe limits for glass fibres in residential settings. However, the following reference points may help you assess the air quality in your home:
- <0.010 ff/cc: This is one-hundredth of the industrial Occupational Exposure Limit (OEL) for glass fibres, as defined by Ontario’s Ministry of Labour. It serves as a provisional guideline for residential air. If the concentration of fibres in your air is below this level, your air is safe.
- 0.010-0.100 ff/cc: The concentration of glass fibres in the air is elevated and needs to be addressed.
- 0.100-0.300 ff/cc: Very high concentration of glass fibres in the air. It is unsafe for tenants.
Testing Methodology
Our testing adheres to the NIOSH 7400 method, commonly referred to as the “PCM method.” This procedure uses phase-contrast microscopy to measure all airborne fibres, including both asbestos and non-asbestos varieties. While this approach may overestimate asbestos concentrations, it remains a cost-effective screening tool. The principle is straightforward: if the total fibre concentration in your home is below the 0.010 ff/cc threshold, your environment is considered safe.
What’s Included in the Test Kit?
The sampling kit contains:
- An air sampling pump
- Multiple cassettes for sampling (one per room)
- Step-by-step sampling instructions
- Prepaid laboratory analysis
Once your sampling is complete, return the pump, cassettes, and a completed “Air Testing” request form to our laboratory for analysis. A sample laboratory report is available on our website, allowing you to preview the format and ensure it meets your needs.
Why Choose LCS Laboratory?
Our testing service is designed to offer reliable insights into the air quality of your home. With easy-to-follow instructions and quick analysis, we make it simple to safeguard your living environment against the risks of airborne glass fibres.
To order your sampling kit or to receive an instant quote, please click the “Add to Cart” link below.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or need assistance with shipping instructions, please visit our Contact Us page. For pricing details, download our laboratory price list. Request forms are also available for download here.
Stay proactive about your home’s air quality with LCS Laboratory—because clean air is essential for your health and well-being.
