IEQ Testing Services

Huntington Beach, California, November 17, 2025

An estimated 33 million homes across North America may contain attic insulation made from vermiculite mined in Libby, Montana, and many of these properties are located in California. This is a concern because the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reported that the Libby mine also contained asbestos deposits, meaning the vermiculite was contaminated with asbestos.

The EPA provides extensive guidance on vermiculite insulation to raise awareness and minimize exposure risks. Vermiculite itself is lightweight, fire-resistant, and odorless, and has long been used in building materials, including attic and wall insulation. Products vary in size from fine particles to chunks nearly an inch in length.

“Exposure to asbestos fibers can cause asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma,” said Michael Chapman, Laboratory Manager at LA Testing’s Huntington Beach facility. “There is no safe level of asbestos exposure. Fibers must be airborne to pose a health risk, which can happen if insulation is disturbed without proper precautions. Homeowners in California planning renovations on older properties should be especially cautious, as should construction and remodeling professionals.”

LA Testing supports both residents and businesses concerned about asbestos exposure. Their laboratories provides testing services for vermiculite insulation and other potential asbestos-containing materials such as floor tiles, sheetrock, popcorn ceilings, and more. The company also offers sampling supplies, easy-to-use test kits, and a wide range of personal protective equipment.

For more information about vermiculite, asbestos, or other environmental testing services, please visit www.LATesting.com, email info@LATesting.com, or call (800) 755-1794. For access to IEQ test kits, visit www.EMSLTestKits.com. 

 

LA Testing is California’s leading laboratory for environmental, indoor air quality and material testing for mercury, asbestos, mold, bacteria, lead, VOCs, formaldehyde, soot, char, ash and smoke damage, particulates, and other chemicals. In addition, LA Testing offers a full range of air sampling and investigative equipment to professionals and the general public. LA Testing maintains an extensive list of accreditations including: AIHA LAP LLC., AIHA ELLAP, AIHA EMLAP and AIHA IHLAP, CDC Elite, NVLAP, State of California, State of Hawaii Department of Health, and other states. LA Testing, along with the EMSL Analytical, Inc. network, has multiple laboratories throughout California including South Pasadena, Huntington Beach, San Leandro, and San Diego.