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Asbestos abatement procedures vary depending on what kind of
asbestos removal is required. To complete this, various procedures have been developed over time to maximise
efficiency whilst simultaneously keeping risks at a minimum.
Some of the procedures to be followed
during the conduct of the asbestos abatement activities are:
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Wet methods are the
traditional way for abatement procedures. However, there is also a dry method that can be
used as an alternative, but this has to be approved by the 'Environmental Protection Agency'
otherwise known as the EPA. This kind of work would begin once approval has been received. A
detailed plan/report must be submitted to explain and justify why such dry methods must be
used in contrast to the traditional wet methods. Included in the report must be the plan of
operation that will control the release of asbestos fibres and how there release will be
monitored.
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Removal encapsulants can be
used to reduce fibre release.
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Asbestos containing
materials should be put into appropriate bags or containers and sealed tightly to ensure
maximum protection against their release. Non hygroscopic materials should be dropped. ACM
should not be dropped from a height of more than 10 feet. Dust free inclined chutes are used
above a height of 10 feet. Prohibition of the vertical and near vertical chutes should be
there. The utmost inclination from the horizontal should be 60 degrees.
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Some asbestos materials will
be to large to bag such as large asbestos sheets. To deal with this, they should always
be kept wet and moist to reduce possible fibre release. In addition to this, they should
be wrapped in a layer of polyethylene sheeting and securely fastened with a strong
tape.
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Upon completion of all
stripping procedures, the surface from which the asbestos was removed should be cleaned in
order to remove any visible residues to ensure 100% removal of asbestos.
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After finishing cleaning of
all visible residues, a thin layer of pigmented and encapsulating agent should be applied.
This sealant will further enhance the protection of any past asbestos containing
materials.
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Some other procedures involved in the abatement of asbestos
or other abatement alternatives are:
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1.
In place
management: This is a low
cost method of asbestos management, however, the outcome is temporary and
will have to be revisited at a later date.
2. Completion of partial removal: This on the other hand is a permanent solution, however,
the initial costs can be quite high.
3. Encapsulation or wrapping or
repairing: This method of
management is very low cost in comparison to other methods but again this a
temporary measure.
4. Enclosure: This method here is usually for asbestos containing
material that is in poor condition. It is a permanent remedy, however, the initial
costs of removal can be substantially high.
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If you want to
try any of these methods, further reading will be essential as we are simply providing a basic outlook into
asbestos abatement procedures. Asbestos removal is a challenging process and should be carried out by trained
professionals.
How to Test for Asbestos
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