Scope 2 Asbestos Testing: Detecting Naturally Occurring Asbestos in Raw Materials

Scope 2 asbestos testing concerns the detection and identification of naturally occurring asbestos (NOA) in raw materials.

It applies to materials of natural origin in which asbestos may occur naturally, independently of any industrial use.

What does Scope 2 cover?

Within the French regulatory framework described here, Scope 2 applies to raw materials such as rocks, soils and aggregates, in accordance with the French Order of 1 October 2019, as amended by the Order of 3 June 2025.

It aims to detect naturally occurring asbestos in these matrices, which may require specific analytical methods.

Materials covered by Scope 2 asbestos testing

Examples of materials that may be covered include:

• Natural rocks
• Samples from geological outcrops
• Excavated soils and earth from construction sites
• Aggregates and ballast
• Sands, silts and clays
• Natural mineral materials

These materials are tested for naturally occurring asbestos within the raw materials category.

Intentionally added asbestos versus naturally occurring asbestos

• Intentionally added asbestos: asbestos incorporated into manufactured materials, including building products.
• Naturally occurring asbestos: asbestos present in geological materials such as rocks, soils and aggregates.

Scope 2 specifically concerns raw materials that may contain naturally occurring asbestos.

What is the difference between Scopes 1, 2 and 3?

Scope 1 asbestos testing

• Detection of intentionally added asbestos
• Manufactured materials and products

Scope 2 asbestos testing

• Detection of naturally occurring asbestos
• Raw materials
• Examples: rocks, soils and aggregates

Scope 3 asbestos testing

• Detection of naturally occurring asbestos
• Manufactured materials and products
• Examples: certain asphalt mixtures, concretes and demolition materials

See also: Scope 1 asbestos testing | Scope 3 asbestos testing.

When should Scope 2 asbestos testing be requested?

When investigating naturally occurring asbestos as part of:

• Testing soils or excavated earth
• Earthworks or civil engineering projects
• Assessing quarry materials or other natural materials
• Characterising aggregates or mineral materials
• Environmental assessments

How does the testing process work?

1. Collection of the sample: soil, rock or aggregate.
2. Specific sample preparation in the laboratory.
3. Microscopic analysis using methods appropriate to raw materials.
4. Interpretation of results and preparation of an analytical report.

Guidance: if the material contains manufactured components, such as demolition debris, another testing category may be required depending on the constituents present.

Why choose our laboratory?

• Expertise in natural matrices
• Methods suited to raw materials
• Reliable, usable analytical results
• Technical support

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For help selecting the appropriate analysis, read our complete guide.