Can I test for Asbestos in Thailand?

[doxx]

Are there self-test kits available or labs that will test samples?

 

I suspect the roofing in my mother-in-law's house is concrete-asbestos based. She cooks directly under it and she was recently diagnosed with lung cancer. I would like to find out obviously, for the health of the rest of the family.

[TheCorinthian]

In the US there are, about $50 or less at Lowes as I recall.

 

One problem with Mg3(Si2O5)(OH)4 is collecting it. With out a mask you are exposing yourself to it by getting it in the bottle. Mg3(Si2O5)(OH)4 is a fiber, so if what you are looking at is not fiberous, it is likely not Asbestos. If it is one way to deal with it is to paint it, i.e., seal it in.

[Julian2]

I doubt you'd get asbestosis from roofing sheets. I was somewhat involved in asbestos removal in another life and it's breathing the dust that's dangerous.

As Mr C says, seal it in, but it's pretty well sealed in sheeting anyway.

[The_Munchmaster]

I was somewhat involved in asbestos removal in another life....

So you are living proof of the existence of reincarnation!

 

[Julian2]

I can't believe you ever doubted it.

Imagine looking in the mirror and thinking "this is all there is".

[unit731]

Asbestos was used in many items around commercial and residential buildings.

 

Mostly, you have to worry about the loose stuff that was used around pipes and such.

 

The hard stuff is not as dangerous. Of course, all of it can be dangerous.

 

Automobile brake shoes used to have the stuff.

 

We, here, had a cement/asbestos 'clapboard' type house siding that was popular in the 1950's - many homes have this siding. It is hard. And as such is not dangerous (unless you break it and try to remove the stuff from the whole house in pieces).

 

Some vinyl tile (squares) flooring has it. Again, not dangerous if left in place.

 

What is stated above is correct. If sealed or hard - not much of a danger.

 

Here's a link about roofing materials.

 

LINK