Laboratory Services
Lead Bulk Sample Analysis
Lead is a naturally occurring bluish-grey metal that is soft, malleable, corrosive-resistant, and easily melted, and is highly toxic. The human body naturally gets rid of lead over time, but it can accumulate faster than the body can get rid of it. Until the 1980s lead was commonly used in paints and coatings to increase their durability, make colours more vibrant, and help paints dry faster. Lead-containing paints and coatings are only hazardous when they are disturbed (for example, scraped, sanded, or burned) and release lead dust, mist, or fume, which can be released into the environment and inhaled or ingested by workers and other people.
Lead finishes potentially containing lead are analyzed utilizing a handheld X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) analyzer giving results in parts per million (PPM). Our third-party lead analysts are certified XRF analyzer operators and have a Level 1 X-ray Fluorescence Analyzer Operator Certificate issued by the Natural Resources Canada (NRCan).
For a copy of our chain of custody, click here.
Astech can visit the site to analyze potential lead finishes, or collect and have them analyzed at a third-party laboratory. We also accept walk-in customers who can drop off bulk samples they have collected. Please note that we have a mail slot for dropping off bulk samples after regular working hours.
We accept cash, cheque, and debit/credit card.
How to Take Asbestos Samples
Follow these helpful instructions to collect samples for asbestos testing and analysis
1.
Spray
Spray the building material with a mixture of soap and water to prevent fibre from being released during sample collection.
2.
Sample
While using a HEPA-filtered respirator, take a representative sample from within the materials suspected of containing asbestos by penetrating the entire depth of the material.
3.
Seal
Place the sample in a sealable freezer bag and attach a label with material description and location.
4.
Separate
For multiple samples, please enclose each sample in separate sealed bags. This avoids cross-contamination.
If you have any questions about sampling procedures or quantities, please call our lab.
Our Rates
Bulk Sample Processing Guide
01
Standard
- 3-5 Days
- 30 per sample plus GST
02
Rush 24-Hour
- 24 Hours
- 30 per sample plus GST
03
Rush 4-Hour
- 4 Hours
- 30 per sample plus GST
04
Super Rush
- 1-2 Hours
- 45 per sample plus GST
If you have any questions about sampling procedures or quantities, please call our office.
More Information
Asbestos Samples Guide
| Materials | Minimum Amount |
|---|---|
| Asphalt shingles | 5 cm x 5 cm (2 in. x 2 in.) |
| Roofing felt | 5 cm x 5 cm (2 in. x 2 in.) – all layers must be collected, down to the sheathing |
| Cement board | 5 cm x 5 cm (2 in. x 2 in.) |
| Floor tile, linoleum, asphalt flooring | 5 cm x 5 cm (2 in. x 2 in.) |
| Ceiling tiles | 5 cm x 5 cm (2 in. x 2 in.) |
| Mechanical insulation (piping) | 50 cm3 (3 cu. in.) – all layers must be collected, down to the pipe |
| Ropes, gaskets, wires, etc. | 5 linear cm (2 linear in.) or 5 cm x 5 cm (2 in. x 2 in.) |
| Levelling compounds and mortars | 50 cm3 (3 cu. in.) |
| Mastics and putties | 15 cm3 (1 cu. in.) |
| Texture coats and stuccos | 50 cm3 (3 cu. in.) |
| Drywall mud | 5 cm x 5 cm (2 in. x 2 in.) – mud only, do not include gypsum board or drywall tape |
| Vermiculite insulation | 4 L (1 gal.) – collect from the top to the bottom of the application to get a representative sample |
| Sprayed insulation (for example, sprayed fireproofing) | 50 cm3 (3 cu. in.) |
| Other sprayed materials | 1 full, small zip-lock bag |
| Other non-friable products | 5 cm x 5 cm (2 in. x 2 in.) |
American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) Bulk Asbestos Proficiency Analytical Testing (BAPAT) Astech Laboratory Participant ID# 200542
Safe & Reliable Lead Testing
About Us
With over 30 years of experience, our lab is managed by a team of qualified key personnel. Since our establishment, Astech Labs has been a major stakeholder in the construction and hazardous materials abatement industry for commercial, industrial, institutional, recreational, and residential buildings and structures, in both the private and public sectors.
- Expert testing for both asbestos and lead in one service
- Fully accredited to ensure safety and compliance
- Quick, accurate results with minimal disruption
Accuracy
We provide precise and reliable lead test results using advanced techniques.
Expertise
Our highly trained professionals ensure thorough testing and compliance with safety standards.
Speed
Fast turnaround times to meet urgent deadlines and reduce waiting periods.
Compliance
Fully certified to meet all local and national asbestos regulations.
Why Choose Us?
With over 30 years of experience, our lab is managed by a team of qualified key personnel. Since our establishment, Astech Labs has been a major stakeholder in the construction and hazardous materials abatement industry for commercial, industrial, institutional, recreational, and residential buildings and structures, in both the private and public sectors.