BOHS P401 - Identification of Asbestos in Bulk samples (PLM)

Asbestos Fibre types & ACMs

Sample preparation and preliminary assessment

Set Up and Use of a Polarised Light Microscope & analysis of samples

Certificates and reporting

Quality control

Microscope set-up

Sample preparation

PLM typing of unknown samples

Identification of asbestos using polarised light dispersion staining techniques

The Practical Assessment The practical assessment must be carried out by the Tutor during the relevant part of the course for all candidates. This is to ensure that every candidate can demonstrate their individual ability and correct method for: Working safely at a fume cupboard whilst using a stereo microscope to examine samples Correctly preparing slides for examination under a polarising microscope Setting up a polarising microscope to allow identification of asbestos types within a sample

Written Examination This is an open book examination comprising of approximately 30 (100 marks) short-answer questions, with variable marks, illustrated by photographs and diagrams, as appropriate, to be answered in 90 minutes. The examination covers ALL sections of the syllabus in proportion to the time allocation given on the front page of the syllabus and is overseen by a BOHS invigilator.

Practical Examination This is an open book practical examination with a time allowance of 4 hours, which requires candidates to identify the asbestos types in six samples. The samples are from the AIMs scheme, provided to BOHS by HSL. Candidates are permitted to access relevant hard copy reference material only. Communication between candidates is not permitted. The examination is overseen by a BOHS specialist invigilator who will confirm suitability of the facilities.

Asbestos bulk analysts and laboratory analysts.

Anyone who manages asbestos analysts or requires a deeper understanding of the asbestos analysis process (e.g. Laboratory Quality Manager)

Prior Knowledge and Understanding

Candidates for this course are expected to be aware of HSG 248 Asbestos: The Analysts' Guide (July 2021), and in particular Appendix 2: Determination of asbestos in bulk materials. Candidates will preferably have prior experience of analysing bulk samples and may already be participating in a quality control scheme. In addition, candidates are expected to have had training to cover the core competencies outlined within the foundation material detailed within Table A9.1 of HSG248 Asbestos: The Analysts' Guide (July 2021). This may be achieved by In -house learning or through the P400 foundation module.