During any licensed asbestos removal, fibre levels in the air must be continuously monitored. Our independent UKAS-accredited analysts provide real-time supervision of the enclosure environment and issue the mandatory 4-stage clearance certificate that allows reoccupation.
Asbestos air monitoring measures the concentration of respirable asbestos fibres in the atmosphere. During licensed removal work, background and personal air samples are collected and analysed by phase contrast microscopy (PCM) or transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to ensure fibre levels remain below the control limit of 0.1 fibres per millilitre of air.
Our analysts are completely independent of the removal contractor, ensuring there is no conflict of interest. We provide real-time feedback during works, and our 4-stage clearance report is the legal document required before an enclosure can be opened and the area reoccupied.
Arrange Air MonitoringMandatory for all licensed asbestos work under CAR 2012
Visual inspection
Analyst carries out a thorough visual inspection of the enclosure to confirm all debris has been removed and surfaces are clean.
Aggressive air sampling
Fans and brushes disturb settled dust to simulate worst-case conditions while air samples are collected.
Laboratory analysis
Filter samples are analysed by PCM or TEM to measure fibre concentrations. Results must be below 0.01 f/ml for clearance.
Certificate of reoccupation
On passing, the analyst issues a written clearance certificate. The enclosure can be dismantled and the area reoccupied.
Our analysts have no commercial relationship with the removal contractor — guaranteeing objective, unbiased results.
UKAS accreditation for asbestos fibre counting to ISO 17025 standards — the gold standard for analytical laboratories.
On-site analysis means clearance results are available the same day, keeping your project on schedule.
Our clearance certificates meet all CAR 2012 and HSE requirements and are accepted by insurers and regulatory bodies.
Is air monitoring mandatory for all asbestos removal?
A 4-stage clearance is legally mandatory for all licensed asbestos work. For non-licensed work (e.g. lower-risk cement sheet removal), air monitoring is not legally required but is still best practice and is recommended where occupants will return to the area.
Can the same company do the removal and the air monitoring?
No. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 requires that the clearance analyst is independent of the removal contractor. This is precisely why we provide air monitoring as a standalone service — ensuring impartial, legally compliant results.
How long does the 4-stage clearance take?
Typically half a day. The visual inspection and aggressive sampling take 1–2 hours; laboratory analysis takes a few more hours. We aim to issue the certificate on the same day the clearance commences wherever possible.
What happens if the enclosure fails clearance?
If fibre counts exceed the 0.01 f/ml threshold, the enclosure must be recleaned and decontaminated before a further air test is carried out. We work closely with removal contractors to identify the source of excess fibres quickly and re-test as soon as decontamination is complete.
Independent, UKAS-accredited monitoring and 4-stage clearance certification for your licensed removal project.