Asbestos, formerly popular in construction, is now known to be extremely dangerous. When disturbed, its fibres can cause severe lung diseases if breathed in. In the UK, removing asbestos from buildings is a complex, risky process that must be done by experts following strict safety rules. This article will explain the steps involved in professional asbestos removal.
Understanding Asbestos
Before discussing removal procedures, it’s important to understand what asbestos is and where it’s commonly found.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing throughout the 20th century. In the UK, it can be found in various building materials, including:
- Insulation (thermal and acoustic)
- Roofing and siding sheets
- Floor tiles and adhesives
- Textured coatings (such as Artex)
- Pipe lagging
- Fireproofing materials
Asbestos is most dangerous when it’s “friable,” meaning it can be easily crumbled by hand, releasing fibres into the air. Non-friable asbestos, while less immediately hazardous, can become friable when damaged or deteriorated.
The Asbestos Removal Process
1. Initial Assessment and Testing
The first step in any asbestos removal project is a thorough assessment of the property. This is typically conducted by a licensed asbestos surveyor who will:
- Visually inspect the property for potential ACMs
- Take samples of suspected materials
- Send samples to an accredited laboratory for analysis
- Prepare a detailed report outlining the presence, location, and condition of any asbestos-containing materials
This assessment is crucial as it informs the subsequent steps and helps in developing a comprehensive removal plan.
2. Planning and Preparation
Once asbestos has been identified, a detailed removal plan is created. This plan will include:
- Scope of work
- Methods of removal
- Safety procedures
- Disposal protocols
The preparation phase involves several key steps:
- Notifying the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) if required
- Sealing off the work area with thick plastic sheeting and tape to create a containment zone
- Setting up negative air pressure systems to prevent asbestos fibres from escaping the containment area
- Installing decontamination units for workers to safely enter and exit the work area
- Removing all movable objects from the work area and covering immovable items with plastic sheeting
3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Workers involved in asbestos removal must wear appropriate PPE, which typically includes:
- Full-body disposable coveralls
- Respirators with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters
- Safety goggles
- Gloves
- Boot covers
This protective gear is essential to prevent exposure to asbestos fibres during the removal process.
4. Asbestos Removal Techniques
The actual removal of asbestos-containing materials can be done through various methods, depending on the type and condition of the ACM. Common techniques include:
- a) Wet Removal: This is the most common method. The ACM is thoroughly wetted to minimise dust and fibre release. The material is then carefully scraped off and immediately bagged for disposal.
- b) Wrap and Cut: Used for asbestos insulation on pipes. The insulation is wrapped in plastic and then cut into sections for removal.
- c) Negative Pressure Enclosure: For larger jobs, a sealed containment area is created with negative air pressure to prevent fibres from escaping. The asbestos is then removed using wet methods.
- d) Encapsulation: In some cases, rather than removal, asbestos may be sealed with a special coating to prevent fibre release. This is typically a temporary solution.
Throughout the removal process, air monitoring is conducted to ensure fibre levels remain within safe limits.
5. Cleaning and Decontamination
After the bulk of the asbestos has been removed, a thorough cleaning process begins:
- All surfaces in the containment area are cleaned using HEPA vacuums and wet-wiping techniques
- The area is allowed to dry and then undergoes another round of HEPA vacuuming
- Any tools or equipment used in the removal process are thoroughly decontaminated or disposed of as asbestos waste
6. Waste Disposal
Asbestos waste requires special handling and disposal:
- All asbestos-containing waste is double-bagged in heavy-duty plastic bags or wrapped in double layers of plastic sheeting
- Bags are labelled with appropriate asbestos warning labels
- Waste is transported to specially designated landfills that are authorised to accept asbestos waste
- Proper documentation and consignment notes are maintained for the transportation and disposal of the waste
7. Final Inspection and Clearance
Before the containment area can be dismantled:
- A thorough visual inspection is conducted to ensure all visible ACMs have been removed
- Air sampling is performed to verify that airborne asbestos levels are below the clearance level
- If air samples pass the clearance test, the containment can be removed, and the area can be safely reoccupied
The Importance of Professional Removal
It’s crucial to emphasise that asbestos removal should never be attempted by untrained individuals. DIY asbestos removal is not only dangerous but also illegal in the UK for most types of asbestos work. Professional asbestos abatement contractors have:
- Proper training and certification
- Specialised equipment and tools
- Knowledge of legal requirements and disposal procedures
- Insurance coverage for asbestos-related work
Attempting to remove asbestos without proper training and equipment can lead to fibre release, contaminating the property and putting the health of occupants at risk.
Legal Considerations in the UK
Asbestos removal is heavily regulated in the UK. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 governs the handling and removal of asbestos. These regulations cover aspects such as:
- Licensing requirements for asbestos work
- Notification to the HSE for certain types of asbestos work
- Work practices and control measures
- Air monitoring
- Disposal procedures
- Worker protection and training
Failure to comply with these regulations can result in significant fines and legal liabilities.
Conclusion
Asbestos removal in the UK is a complex and potentially hazardous process that requires expertise, specialised equipment, and strict adherence to safety protocols. While the presence of asbestos in a building doesn’t always necessitate immediate removal, when removal is required, it’s crucial to engage licensed professionals. By following proper procedures, asbestos can be safely removed, minimising the risk to workers, occupants, and the environment.
If you suspect the presence of asbestos in your home or workplace, the first step is to contact TLC Environmental on 01206 240440 so that one of our licensed asbestos surveyors can assess the situation and recommend appropriate action. Remember, when it comes to asbestos, safety should always be the top priority.
