Can inspectors take homogeneous floor samples? What does the DEP recommend?

The assertion that inspectors can take homogeneous floor samples, with one sample recommended per floor, aligns with standard practices for asbestos sampling. When conducting inspections for asbestos, it’s essential to collect samples that are representative of the materials present.

Homogeneous areas are defined as those that are uniform in color, texture, and composition. By taking a sample from each homogeneous area of flooring, inspectors can effectively assess potential asbestos content across different types of flooring. The recommendation suggests that collecting one sample per floor can help ensure that the overall assessment of materials is adequate without being overly burdensome.

This practice acknowledges that while numerous samples may yield more comprehensive data, the goal remains to gather sufficient information to ascertain the presence of asbestos in a practical and efficient manner. The focus is on balance—enough sampling to make informed decisions, but not to the extent of excessive disruption or resource use. Therefore, the recommendation indicates a reasonable and effective approach to asbestos sampling for flooring materials.