Laboratory Test: Glass Fibers on Surface Wipes by NIOSH 7400 with modification

Glass fibers can be a hidden hazard that lingers long after a renovation or construction project is complete. If not fully removed, fine glass dust can remain on surfaces, becoming a persistent source of contamination, skin irritation, and indoor air quality concerns. To help identify and control this issue, LCS Laboratory Inc. provides a specialized surface test for detecting glass fibers.

Our analytical method is designed to verify the cleanliness and safety of areas where glass fibers are present or may have been disturbed.

Who Should Use This Test

This service is recommended for:

  • Homeowners concerned about post‑renovation dust
  • Property managers overseeing building maintenance
  • Environmental consultants assessing contamination from construction debris or glass insulation

What the Test Helps You Determine

1. Cleanliness Verification
Assess the effectiveness of post‑abatement or post‑construction cleaning. The test confirms whether glass dust and other fine particulates have been successfully removed from work surfaces.

2. Extent of Contamination
Identify how far glass fibers have spread throughout a property. This information helps ensure that contamination has not migrated into adjacent rooms or living spaces.

Recommended Sampling Method

For best results, we recommend wipe sampling using:

  • Ashless cellulose filter papers, or
  • Medical alcohol pads

These materials are widely available and ideal for collecting dust from smooth, non‑porous surfaces such as ceramic tiles, painted walls, metal panels, and glass. A standard sampling area is 100 cm² (4″ × 4″), ensuring consistent and reliable results.

Advanced Laboratory Analysis (Modified NIOSH 7400)

Once samples arrive at our laboratory, the collected dust is extracted and analyzed using Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM). We follow a modified NIOSH 7400 method to quantify the concentration of glass fibers in each wipe sample.

Your report will include:

  • Glass fiber concentration expressed in micrograms per sample
  • Data suitable for comparing contamination levels across different rooms or zones

This approach provides a clear, defensible assessment of glass fiber distribution within a home, office, or industrial space.

Contact Us for Sampling Media or Project Support

If you need sampling supplies or wish to discuss a glass fiber or asbestos testing project, LCS Laboratory Inc. is here to help. Contact us to ensure your environment is clean, safe, and compliant. ©

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