What To Expect During Asbestos Abatement

If you suspect asbestos is present in your home or business, it’s critical to schedule an inspection as soon as possible. Asbestos removal is too dangerous a project to handle yourself. Once you’ve decided on a certified and licensed removal company, it can walk you through the process step by step. But it doesn’t hurt to have an overview of what to expect during asbestos abatement.

Inspection

The materials and the air will be sampled and tested for asbestos fibers in laboratory conditions. Then, the abatement expert will determine the hazard levels. Even if asbestos is present, removal is not a foregone conclusion. If the asbestos doesn’t pose a risk of exposure, keeping it in place might be wiser. A written evaluation will detail the degree of the problem and a plan for removal. You should make sure details about local, state, and federal laws for proper abatement are included in the plan.

Isolation

The next step is to seal off the contaminated area from the rest of the building. Air ducts will be blocked; the air conditioning and heating unit will be disabled; and the work location will be protected by thick plastic sheets with air pressure differential and filtration abilities.

Removal

Workers will use hand tools and wet methods to remove the hazardous materials while the latest HEPA filtration cleans your air system. Workers are equipped with protective clothing and respirators to avoid exposure. They’ll place the waste in special bags, seal them, and remove them through a decontamination area. The abatement contractors will be decontaminated, too, with a shower before exiting.

Completion

In addition to knowing what to expect during asbestos abatement, make sure you know the procedure for completion. After the materials have been removed, all surfaces in the area must be fully cleaned. Then, there’s one more sampling of the air in compliance with state and federal requirements. The setup won’t be broken down until the sample passes clearance testing. You should expect a report from the abatement company with the inspection results and other details, including copies of licensing. That will come in handy if you ever need to sell the property and assure buyers that it’s asbestos free.

If you think you might need asbestos abatement in MA, AirSafe is familiar with all the local regulations. With our experience in properly removing and disposing of asbestos, you can be confident your building will be safe. Call us with any questions or for a free quote.