Prior to an asbestos removal the work requires first a substantiation, an identification, that asbestos is indeed present. This is known as a bulk analysis. Microscopical methods, particularly polarized light microscopy, can be used to measure the physical properties of fibers in the sampled material to identify and substantiate the presence of asbestos. Then, throughout the asbestos abatement process, the air is continuously monitored for asbestos fibers to minimize the risk exposure to the abatement worker as well as the general public. The measurement of air fiber levels throughout the abatement process is done primarily by phase contrast microscopy. When needed, electron microscopy is employed either in bulk asbestos analysis or the fiber in air measurements. In the USA, the usual methods that are followed are essentially prescribed. Laboratories and, under certain conditions the individual doing such work, should continuously meet performance criteria. The laboratory should be accredited and, for limited work, the individual certified. The overall procedure of asbestos analysis is reviewed; the possible current shortcoming in the methodology are discussed.
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Santee et al. (2003) studied this question.