Near-Source and Far-Source Static Sampling

Near-Source Static Sampling (NSSS) and Far-Source Static Sampling (FSSS) are performed in the same way as background and reassurance air samples but are essentially used to monitor ongoing conditions and works.

For example, they may use NSSS for non-licensed/notifiable non-licensed works to monitor any fibre release resulting from those activities. They can also be used in the event of an accidental fibre release caused by damage to asbestos-containing materials.

Work with asbestos-contaminated soils is also becoming more prevalent as land is being reused after a legacy of asbestos use in the built environment and NSSS is an important tool in assessing fibre release from these activities.

FSSS is used to assess the wider potential impact of an activity and is samples situated around the perimeter of a site to assess the impact on other site workers, members of the public or businesses and households that border it. Again, it’s often prudent and more effective to position the samples strategically in order to assess those that are likely to be affected, particularly if located downwind of the works.

The usefulness of such tests can vary depending on environmental conditions – precipitation and strong winds in particular – but can form an important part of a site risk assessment and management strategy when dealing with asbestos.