Is There a Safe Way of Handling Asbestos?
The key factor in the handling of asbestos is preventing asbestos dust. When dust occurs, fibers become airborne. Spraying asbestos materials thoroughly before removal is one of the main techniques used to prevent dust.
Protective equipment for handling asbestos
Before any asbestos removal work is done, asbestos inspectors assess the area. Safety precautions are paramount, especially when it involves asbestos material that breaks or crumbles easily. Protective equipment for handling asbestos generally includes:
- Protective suits or clothing (disposable coveralls, head cover, foot covers made of synthetic fabric that prevents asbestos fibers from penetrating it, and gloves)
- Respirators that are approved for asbestos removal, that are air purifying half- or full-face pieces, and that have replaceable high-efficiency filters
- Non-powered hand tools (no sanders) to minimize dust
- Portable power tools equipped with special ventilation attachments
- Plastic drop sheets to cover walls and other areas and to collect debris
- Bags for asbestos waste that are clearly marked
- Wet clothes, rags, or mops used to pick up asbestos fibers (must not be allowed to dry and must be disposed while still wet)
- High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuums that remove minute particles such as asbestos fibers
- Steam cleaners (used on carpets along with HEPA vacuums) to remove all asbestos fibers from carpeting
Avoid activities such as sawing, sanding, and drilling asbestos-containing materials.
For inside removal areas that involve major fiber releases, the object is to isolate that area as much as possible from other areas. Closing doors, sealing with plastic, and erecting temporary barriers that inhibit airflow are containment methods that are frequently used.
Asbestos cleanup
After all asbestos is removed, the last step in the process if crucial—the asbestos cleanup step. Asbestos wastes are thoroughly wetted and placed in leak-resistant containers (often six-millimeter-thick plastic bags) and labeled as asbestos toxic waste. This procedure applies whether the asbestos-containing material was in a small surface area or a large area. This is followed by wet wiping and HEPA vacuuming procedures. The area is thoroughly inspected at the end of the cleanup to ensure the air and area is free of asbestos.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), precautions should be used when handling asbestos because there is a good chance of disturbing asbestos-containing materials and releasing fibers.