Professional asbestos removal is largely about controlling the spread of fibers throughout the entire process. From planning and containment to dismantling, waste management, and final cleaning, each step must be carried out using the proper work methods and equipment.
The work begins with planning and preparation
Before work begins, it must be determined where asbestos is located and what materials will be handled. Work methods, safety measures, personal protective equipment, post-removal cleanup, and waste disposal must then be adapted to the specific site.
Companies that remove or remediate asbestos must obtain a permit from the Swedish Work Environment Authority, and the work must be reported for each new site.
The remediation area is delineated
During indoor asbestos removal, the work area must normally be enclosed to prevent fibers from spreading to surrounding areas. When working inside the enclosure, an airlock is used for entry and exit, and the removal zone is maintained at negative pressure.
The negative pressure creates a controlled airflow into the decontamination area. The air is purified using a fan unit with HEPA filters, and the Swedish Work Environment Authority specifies that the air in the decontamination zone must be replaced at least ten times per hour.
However, the scope and work method used may vary depending on the type of work. For certain limited-scope projects, for example, the glovebag technique may be used instead of a traditional containment system.
Fiber dispersion is limited during the work
The demolition itself must be carried out in such a way that as little asbestos-containing dust as possible is released and dispersed. The work method therefore plays a major role.
Dust and fiber-binding agents can be used as part of the effort to bind fibers and reduce the risk of dispersion. Hand-held and mobile machines used in demolition or remediation must also be connected to an extraction system designed for asbestos-containing dust.
The asbestos-containing material is handled on an ongoing basis and packaged for safe further handling and transport.
Cleaning Before Removing the Enclosure
Once demolition is complete, cleanup remains. Surfaces in the cleanup area are vacuumed and wet-mopped before the area is ventilated with the fan units still in operation.
Before the airlock and containment are removed, the surfaces in the decontamination zone must be free of dust. Only then can the area be dismantled and the work completed.
Equipment for Professional Asbestos Removal
At Alron, you'll find, among other things, asbestos containment chambers, glove bags, dust and fiber-binding agents, and products for handling asbestos waste.
Do you need help finding the right equipment for a remediation project? Contact us at Alron, and we'll help you find products that are right for the job.
