Asbestos Abatement and Audit Projects

When handling most hazardous waste each is classified according to GHS system and its own set of TORs are developed based on the scope of the job to be completed. Asbestos is one of the most hazardous materials used by industries and sometimes corporate sectors.

At GWI we conduct Audits for asbestos presence or contamination and recommendation for mitigation in Industries, or corporate sectors.

Below is a guideline we used for handling asbestos during the abatement process.

Tasks for removal of Asbestos-containing material (ACM)

Time Frame:

The task of asbestos removal will differ depending on job size.  The task will be conducted in sections to minimize interruptions of work.  An alternative is to conduct tasks on weekends only (Saturdays & Sundays).

Waste Handling

The waste will be handled as per the guidelines under  EPA 560/5-85-024.  A survey is always done on the building site to be cleared and a listing of all asbestos material and asbestos containing material is conducted.  A toolbox safety talk will be conducted and documented daily.

Zoning

A containment barrier will be constructed around the entire SECTION BEING WORKED ON  using plastic sheets joined with folded seams and with sealing tape at the boundaries.  Area will be zoned off.  The containment barrier will have provision of worker change and decontamination facilities.  All workers will use coveralls and respirators.  Polystyrene Containment bags will be used to enclosed the ACM for transport.  Extractors will be used in work areas and air passed through a Bagged HEPA Filter.

Cleaning & Safety

Area will be clean using wet mop and HEPA vacuumed once and a second time after 24 hours when potentially suspended fibers have settled.  We place great priority on the SAFETY of our workers, therefore if there is any sign of a hazardous condition, the abatement will cease IMMEDIATELY.

Removal /Transportation /Encapsulation

All materials will be treated with a solution of water mist to reduce fiber release. Polyethylene wraps along with polyethylene bags will be used to transport ACM.  Encapsulation will be completed with cementitious material and DISPOSED OF at our land burial site.