Interpreting Test Results

These guidelines help to interpret LA Testing Labs asbestos test results.

The following exposure limits pertain to the workplace environment for fibers longer than 5 micrometers.

OSHA - The legal airborne permissible exposure limit [PEL] is 0.1 fiber/cc [fiber per cubic centimeter] averaged over an 8-hour workshift and 1 fiber/cc not to be exceeded during any 30 minute work period.

NIOSH - The recommended airborne exposure limit is 0.1 fiber/cc [fiber per cubic centimeter] averaged over an 8-hour workshift.

ACGIH - The recommended airborne exposure limit is 0.2 crocidocite. 0.5 amosite, 2 chrysotile and other asbestos, fibers/cc.

Asbestos is a known carcinogen in humans. There is no safe level of exposure to a carcinogen, so all contact should be reduced to the lowest level possible.