ECO LAB: Asbestos detection laboratory
The asbestos laboratory project in Kryvyi Rih, initiated by Ukraine Resilience Charity, aims to address asbestos contamination from war-damaged materials. It will operate as a non-governmental, non-profit organization to ensure accessibility of services.
The project is being implemented in partnership with the State Scientific Research Mining Institute, a key research body within Kryvyi Rih National University, specializing in mineral extraction and environmental safety. The University will have access to the laboratory’s equipment, enabling students and researchers to use it for academic and applied research. After ten years, ownership of the laboratory will be transferred to the University
Ukraine Resilience Charity will lead and launch the project, overseeing all processes with donors, suppliers, and contractors, including procurement procedures. Operational implementation will be carried out by a dedicated charitable subsidiary, EсoLab Charity, which was established specifically for this project to obtain all necessary documents and licenses for carrying out activities.The project’s mission is not only to ensure safer asbestos management but also to contribute to Ukraine's overall resilience and recovery by leveraging circular economy principles.
Aim: Establish a fully accredited asbestos analytical laboratory in Kryvyi Rih during 2025-2026
Project Phases
Year 1:
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Focus on testing solid materials for asbestos contamination.
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Preparation of laboratory premises.
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Procurement of essential equipment.
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Recruitment and training of personnel to identify asbestos in compliance with European and international standards.
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Completion of the accreditation process.
Year 2:
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Expand capabilities to include air testing for asbestos contamination.
Laboratory Equipment Standards
The laboratory will adhere to strict quality control procedures and comply with International, European, and Ukrainian, including those set by ISO, the Ukrainian standard DSTU EN ISO/IEC 17025:2019, which is identical to international EN ISO/IEC 17025:2017.
The laboratory's equipment portfolio is designed to meet European and international standards for asbestos detection and analysis. This includes state-of-the-art optical and electron microscopy technologies, ensuring the ability to:
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Accurately detect asbestos in both bulk materials and air samples.
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Identify asbestos types with precision.
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Provide analyses that are recognized and trusted by global authorities.
With this advanced equipment, the laboratory will operate at the highest level of scientific and regulatory compliance, serving as a leading analytical facility in Ukraine.
Project Goals and Programmes:
Main Goals:
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Advancing Circular Economy in Construction
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Reusing Construction Waste in New Infrastructure Projects
Short-term Programmes:
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Establish Laboratory Operations
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Staff Training
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Launch Testing Services
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Community Awareness
Expected Social and Environmental Impact of the Project:
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Reduced Health Risks
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Informed Public and Safer Practices
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Cleaner Environment
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Support for Reconstruction Efforts
Achieving these goals and objectives will enable the project to significantly reduce environmental hazards and serve as a model for effective asbestos management in Ukraine, especially in the context of the uncontrolled accumulation of construction debris resulting from war-related damage and the need for its sorting and recycling.
Long-term Programmes:
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Expand Testing Capacity
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Develop Partnerships
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Support Policy Implementation
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Sustainability and Growth
Laboratory Services Description
Air Monitoring:
Air Quality Testing:
Collection and analysis of air samples from construction sites, public buildings, and residential areas to measure asbestos fiber concentrations.
Environmental Monitoring:
Continuous monitoring of air quality in high-risk areas, especially during demolition or renovation activities.
Sample Analysis:
Material Testing:
Analysis of construction debris, insulation materials, and other building components to detect the presence of asbestos.
Microscopy Services:
Use of optical and electronic microscopy techniques to accurately determine the presence, type, and quantity of asbestos fibers in samples.
Consulting and Training:
Risk Assessment and Consulting:
Expert consultation on asbestos management, including risk assessments for buildings and guidance on safe handling and disposal practices.
Training Programmes:
Training courses for construction workers, health and safety officers, and government inspectors on asbestos identification, safe work practices, and regulatory compliance.
Quality Standards and Compliance with International Norms
The laboratory will adhere to strict quality control procedures and comply with International, European, and Ukrainian, including those set by ISO, the Ukrainian standard DSTU EN ISO/IEC 17025:2019, which is identical to international EN ISO/IEC 17025:2017. Additionally, it will ensure compliance with EU Directive 87/217/EEC, which governs asbestos management to protect public health and the environment.
The laboratory welcomes consultations with all interested stakeholders to identify which asbestos detection standards should form the foundation of its operations with solid waste.
We are part of the UNEP-supported Asbestos Working Group, which addresses asbestos management issues.
We are open to adapting training and equipment requirements in line with the working group’s consensus/opinion.