Asbestos Air Monitoring & Clearance Testing
Air monitoring provides assurance that asbestos fibres are not being released during removal works, maintenance activities, or normal building occupation. Our BOHS P403/P404 qualified analysts deliver compliant monitoring and four-stage clearance certification.
What Is Asbestos Air Monitoring?
Asbestos air monitoring involves collecting air samples and analysing them for airborne asbestos fibres using phase contrast microscopy (PCM) or, where required, transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Monitoring is conducted to verify that asbestos removal works are not releasing fibres, that enclosures are effective, and that areas are safe for reoccupation after removal. Four-stage clearance testing is the standard process for certifying that an enclosure is safe to dismantle and the area can be returned to normal use.
When Is Air Monitoring Required?
- During licensed asbestos removal works (statutory requirement)
- Before, during, and after enclosure work
- For four-stage clearance certification
- As reassurance monitoring during building occupation
- Following suspected asbestos disturbance incidents
- To establish background fibre levels before works commence
- For leak testing of removal enclosures
Who Needs Air Monitoring?
- Licensed asbestos removal contractors
- Clients overseeing asbestos removal projects
- Building managers requiring reassurance testing
- Employers investigating suspected exposure incidents
- Demolition contractors during strip-out works
- Healthcare and education premises during refurbishment
What You Receive
- Personal and static air monitoring during works
- Four-stage clearance testing and certification
- Background, leak, and reassurance monitoring
- Comprehensive certificate pack for each enclosure
- UKAS-accredited laboratory analysis where required
- Real-time results and site attendance notes
- Post-project monitoring summary report
Four-Stage Clearance Process
Stage 1: Preliminary Check
Visual inspection to confirm all asbestos waste has been removed, bagged, and labelled for disposal.
Stage 2: Thorough Visual Inspection
Detailed inspection after initial clean to confirm no visible debris, dust, or contamination remains.
Stage 3: Air Monitoring
Air samples collected and analysed using phase contrast microscopy. Clearance requires <0.01 fibres/ml.
Stage 4: Final Assessment
Final visual check and certificate of reoccupation issued, allowing enclosure dismantling and area reoccupation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do your analysts hold?
All our analysts hold BOHS P403 (Asbestos Fibre Counting) and P404 (Air Sampling and Clearance Testing) qualifications. We are members of BOHS (British Occupational Hygiene Society).
How quickly can you attend site?
We aim to schedule monitoring within 24-48 hours. For ongoing removal projects, we provide dedicated analyst attendance aligned with your project programme.
What is the clearance level for reoccupation?
The clearance indicator level is 0.01 fibres per millilitre (f/ml) of air. If this level is achieved, the area is considered safe for reoccupation.
Do you provide monitoring for non-licensed works?
Yes. While not always a statutory requirement, we recommend reassurance monitoring for non-licensed removal works to demonstrate due diligence and protect building occupants.
Can you provide continuous site attendance?
Yes. For larger removal projects, we provide dedicated analysts for continuous or programmed attendance throughout the project duration.
What happens if clearance testing fails?
If the clearance level is not achieved, the removal contractor must conduct additional cleaning. We re-test until the clearance level is met before issuing the certificate.
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