High-Rise Fire Remediation Project Uncovers Asbestos in Popcorn Ceilings

Recently, Florida’s FOX30 reported about the discovery of asbestos-containing popcorn ceilings in a high-rise apartment complex for seniors in Jacksonville. The asbestos came to light after a fire back in December temporarily displaced well over 100 residents. When fire restoration efforts began, the popcorn ceilings in the complex were tested and according to the news story, asbestos was discovered.

For several decades, popcorn ceilings were a standard method of texturing ceilings. Unfortunately, asbestos was used in some popcorn ceilings and these ceilings are not just an exposure concern following a fire, as occurred in Florida. For many homeowners with properties built between the 1960s and 1980s, one of the most popular home improvement projects is removing popcorn ceilings and many DIYers have no idea their ceilings may contain asbestos.  

“It’s a good idea to have a popcorn ceiling tested for asbestos before any projects begin that could disturb the materials,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “In some instances, health and safety regulations require it. This is important because exposure to asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung cancer. If test results indicate asbestos is present, then properly trained asbestos removal professionals can safely handle the situation so that no workers, building occupants or family members are at risk of needless exposure.”

EMSL Analytical, Inc., with its network of coast-to-coast laboratories in the United States and Canada, provides comprehensive asbestos testing services and all sampling supplies needed to submit samples. They also offer easy-to-use test kits and a complete line of personal protective equipment (PPE).

To learn more about asbestos or other occupational, environmental, air quality, health and safety testing services, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email  info@EMSL.com . To access indoor environmental quality test kits, visit www.EMSLTestKits.com.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical, Inc. is one of the leading testing laboratories with 45 locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP 797, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOC’s, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations.  In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail