Asbestos Testing Services

Back in 2021, Health Canada released the infographic Asbestos in Drinking Water. In it, the agency shares that the risk to the public is low from asbestos ingested through drinking water. People are warned that research has shown some asbestos fibers transferring into the air from humidifiers or showers.

Asbestos can enter drinking water through several pathways, including natural deposits in soil and rock, runoff from mine tailings, or improperly disposed contaminated waste. One of the most significant contributors, however, has been the historical use of asbestos-cement (AC) pipes in water distribution systems.

According to Health Canada:

Asbestos-cement pipes were used in water distribution systems across Canada between the 1940s and 1960s. The use of asbestos-cement pipes has been largely discontinued since the 1970s, however, they remain in use in various drinking water distribution systems across Canada. 

“While AC pipes were once valued for their durability and resistance to corrosion, they are now recognized as potential health hazards when damaged or degraded,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Although the health effects of ingesting asbestos fibers in drinking water remain uncertain, the risks from inhalation exposure during the handling, maintenance, or replacement of these pipes are well documented. Conditions such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer are all associated with asbestos exposure.”

EMSL Analytical provides a full range of asbestos testing services to help utilities, contractors, environmental consultants, and property owners identify asbestos-cement pipes and other asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) before and during infrastructure work. With accredited laboratories across the United States and Canada, EMSL delivers rapid turnaround for bulk material, air, and water samples to help ensure regulatory compliance and worker safety.

In addition to laboratory testing, EMSL offers sampling supplies, easy-to-use test kits, personal protective equipment, and educational resources to promote safe asbestos management. The company encourages all organizations involved in excavation, demolition, or waterline replacement to consult environmental professionals before disturbing materials that may contain asbestos.

For more information about asbestos testing and other environmental, health, and safety services, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800)220-3675, or email info@EMSL.com. To access test kits for asbestos and other environmental issues, visit www.EMSLTestKits.com.

About EMSL Canada, Inc.
EMSL Canada is an internationally recognized provider of environmental, indoor air quality, and materials testing services and products to professionals and the public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as provincial regulating bodies.