Vermiculite Sampling Guide
Sampling Procedure:
- Make sure no one else is in the room when sampling is done.
- Wear disposable gloves or wash hands after sampling.
- Shut down any heating or cooling systems to minimize the spread of any released fibers.
- Do not disturb the material any more than is needed to take a small sample.
- Wet the material using a fine mist of water before taking the sample. The water mist will reduce the release of asbestos fibers.
- Carefully remove a small amount of the vermiculite insulation being sure to not aerosolize the material. The asbestos has a tendency to settle so it is important to collect the sample from the bottom if possible.
- Place the small amount into a clean container such as a jar or Ziplock bag (a half cup is a good size).
- Tightly seal the container after the sample is in it. Double bagging is recommended.
- Label the container with an identification number and clearly state when and where the sample was taken.
- Send the Ziplock bag containing the sample to EMSL Analytical, Inc. for vermiculite analysis utilizing an EMSL Chain of Custody form.


