Duration: 1 day
Objective: The objective of this training program is to equip participants with the necessary knowledge to analyze construction materials for bulk asbestos using polarized light microscopy.
Pre-requirements: College degree in science or engineering, ability to work with a binocular microscope
Type of training: Online or in Person.
Program:
- History of Asbestos Use
- Early uses of asbestos in ancient civilizations
- Industrial revolution and widespread asbestos use
- Peak of asbestos use in the mid-20th century
- Discovery of health risks and subsequent decline in asbestos use
- Definition of Asbestos
- Definition of asbestos as a fibrous mineral
- Varieties of asbestos minerals (chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, etc.)
- Natural properties and characteristics of asbestos
- Factors that contribute to asbestos’ resistance to heat, fire, and chemicals
- Applications of asbestos in various industries
- Definition of Asbestiform
- Explanation of asbestiform minerals
- Comparison of elongated asbestiform minerals and non-asbestiform fibrous minerals
- Factors determining the asbestiform nature of minerals
- Examples of non-asbestiform fibrous minerals often mistaken for asbestos
- Definition of Asbestos Containing Material (ACM)
- Definition of ACM as materials that contain asbestos fibres
- Common construction materials that may contain asbestos
- Why was asbestos used?
- Examples of ACMs (asbestos cement products, thermal insulation, pipe insulation, floor tiles, ceiling tiles, etc.)
- Asbestos free materials
- Importance of identifying ACMs and managing their risks
- Safety and Health Considerations
- Occupational safety measures and personal protective equipment
- Laboratory safety practices and waste disposal guidelines
- Health risks management and prevention in asbestos analysis
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Danger Asbestos
Introduction to Asbestos Analysis
- Overview of asbestos and its health risks
- Regulatory requirements related to asbestos testing
- Importance of analysis for bulk asbestos in construction materials
- Laboratory liability related to asbestos analysis
- Differences in regulations between Canadian provinces
- Difference in limits for new and old products
- Difference in terminology of science and legislation
- What is “friable” asbestos
- Sample Collection and Preparation
- Safety
- Proper sampling techniques for various construction materials
- Layers within the sample
- Sample Receiving
- Sample handling, packaging, and documentation
- Sample identification and labelling procedures
- Traceability
Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) and identification of asbestos fibres
- Introduction to PLM and its applications in asbestos analysis
- Familiarization with the polarized light microscope
- Instrument setup and calibration for PLM
- Examination of polarized light principles and mineralogy
- Principles of fibre identification under polarized light
- Recognizing asbestos minerals and distinguishing them from non-asbestos fibres
- Morphology
- Refractive Index Liquids
- Refractive index of fibers
- Extinction angle
- Sign of elongation
- Dispersion staining
- Troubleshooting
- Overview of various analytical techniques for asbestos analysis
- Interferences
- False positive results
- False-negative results
- Understanding and interpreting analysis results
- Quantification Methods
- Qualitative analysis
- Point Counting
- Gravimetric analysis
- Calculation of asbestos concentration in construction materials
- Reporting
- Requirements
- Review
- Transparency
- Client communication
Conclusion:
This one-day training program aims to provide participants with a basic understanding of asbestos analysis in construction materials using polarized light microscopy. Through theoretical sessions, participants will gain the necessary theoretical knowledge required to accurately identify and quantify asbestos fibres.
If you are interested in learning the best laboratory practice from the industry leaders, please contact us to schedule the class. We are looking forward to working with you and your business.
