Air Clearance Testing Calgary
Post-removal air quality testing to verify that asbestos abatement was successful and the area is safe for reoccupancy. Independent third-party verification ensures complete peace of mind.
What is Air Clearance Testing?
Air clearance testing is the final and most critical step in asbestos abatement. After removal work is complete, air samples are collected and analyzed to verify that asbestos fiber levels are below regulatory limits and safe for reoccupancy.
This testing must be performed by an independent third party who was not involved in the removal work. This ensures objective, unbiased verification that the abatement was successful.
Only after passing air clearance testing can containment barriers be removed and the area returned to normal use. This protects building occupants and provides legal documentation of successful abatement.
Why Independent Testing Matters
- • Unbiased verification of abatement quality
- • Protects against conflicts of interest
- • Required by most regulations
- • Ensures removal contractor accountability
- • Provides legal protection
- • Required for insurance claims
We provide independent testing services even when we perform the removal work ourselves.
Health Protection
Confirms the area is safe before family or employees return, preventing ongoing asbestos exposure.
Legal Compliance
Required by Alberta regulations and essential for permit sign-offs and documentation.
Quality Assurance
Verifies the removal contractor did thorough, complete work to professional standards.
Our Air Clearance Testing Process
Pre-Testing Inspection
We conduct a thorough visual inspection of the work area before collecting air samples.
- Verify all asbestos materials have been removed
- Check for visible debris or residue
- Confirm thorough cleaning was completed
- Document conditions with photos
Aggressive Air Sampling
Air is deliberately disturbed to simulate worst-case conditions and reveal any remaining contamination.
- Fans circulate air throughout the work area
- Surfaces are lightly brushed or swept
- HVAC systems activated if applicable
- Ensures worst-case fiber levels are measured
Strategic Sample Collection
Multiple air samples are collected from the work area and outside for comparison.
- Minimum 5 samples per work area (per regulations)
- Outside ambient air sample for baseline
- Calibrated air pumps at regulated flow rates
- Samples collected for specified time period
Laboratory Analysis
Samples are analyzed using specialized microscopy techniques at accredited laboratories.
- PCM (Phase Contrast Microscopy) for fiber counting
- TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy) when required
- Counts all fibers above 5 micrometers in length
- Results typically within 24-48 hours
Results & Clearance Certificate
You receive detailed results and, if passing, an official clearance certificate.
- Comprehensive report with all sample results
- Official clearance certificate if passing
- Original laboratory certificates included
- Re-cleaning protocol if test fails
Testing Methods & Standards
PCM Analysis
Phase Contrast Microscopy is the standard method for clearance testing.
- • Counts all fibers, not just asbestos
- • More conservative and protective
- • Faster and less expensive than TEM
- • Industry standard for clearance
- • Acceptable limit: 0.01 f/cc
TEM Analysis
Transmission Electron Microscopy provides more detailed analysis.
- • Identifies specific asbestos fibers
- • Higher magnification and sensitivity
- • Required for some sensitive areas
- • More expensive and slower
- • Used for special situations
Acceptable Clearance Levels
The acceptable airborne fiber level for clearance testing in Alberta is 0.01 fibers per cubic centimeter (f/cc), measured by PCM analysis. This is the same as outdoor ambient air levels, ensuring the indoor environment is as safe as the outdoor environment.
All samples from the work area must be below this level, and the average must be no higher than the outdoor reference sample.
What if Testing Fails?
If air samples exceed acceptable levels, the area fails clearance and cannot be reoccupied. This means additional cleaning is required before retesting. While disappointing, this protects building occupants from potential asbestos exposure.
Re-Cleaning Protocol:
- Additional HEPA vacuuming of all surfaces
- Wet wiping with amended water
- Focus on areas with highest fiber counts
- Inspection for missed materials or debris
- Containment remains in place
- Retest after re-cleaning complete
Re-cleaning and retesting are typically included in the original abatement contract at no extra cost. The removal contractor is responsible for achieving successful clearance.
Timeline & Investment
Testing Timeline
Typical clearance testing schedule:
- • Scheduling: Same or next business day
- • On-site sampling: 2-4 hours
- • Laboratory analysis: 24-48 hours
- • Report delivery: Same day as results
- • Total time: 1-3 business days
Rush analysis available when needed for faster turnaround.
Pricing Information
Cost varies based on project scope:
- • Number of samples required
- • Size of work area
- • PCM vs. TEM analysis
- • Urgency of turnaround
- • Travel distance to site
Call for free quote based on your project
Frequently Asked Questions
Who performs the air clearance testing?
Air clearance testing must be performed by a qualified independent third party who was not involved in the removal work. This ensures unbiased verification. Even when we perform both the removal and testing, different certified personnel conduct each task to maintain independence and objectivity.
Is air clearance testing required by law?
Yes, Alberta regulations require air clearance testing after asbestos abatement work before an area can be reoccupied. It's also typically required for permit sign-offs and is essential for liability protection. Most removal contracts include clearance testing as part of the scope of work.
How soon can testing be done after removal?
Testing should be performed immediately after the removal contractor completes final cleaning and declares the work area ready for clearance. There's no required waiting period. The sooner testing is done, the sooner you can reoccupy the space if it passes.
What happens with the clearance certificate?
The clearance certificate is official documentation that the abatement was successful. You should keep it permanently with your property records. It may be needed for building permits, future property sales, insurance claims, or regulatory inspections. We recommend providing copies to your contractor, insurance company, and local health department if required.
What if I skip clearance testing?
Skipping clearance testing is illegal, dangerous, and creates serious liability. Without testing, you have no proof the removal was successful, exposing occupants to potential asbestos fibers. You also won't be able to obtain permits, may face regulatory penalties, and could be liable for future health issues. It's never worth the risk.
Schedule Air Clearance Testing
Independent verification and clearance certificates for your asbestos abatement project. Fast turnaround and professional service.