Site preparation includes minimizing the number of people at the site, gathering correct tools, barricades, etc., at the work area before the operation commences.
According to the asbestos Inspection Register, the operation in charge should ensure the safety conditions are optimal at the site, especially if the removal process takes more than seven days.
The asbestos removal site should be appropriately marked as a warning zone using barriers or danger signs to keep the non-essential people away from the site. All the warning signs should stay in place until an official clearance notice is received.
Workers should place plastic sheets before the removal operation to avoid dust setting on the ground. If there is no removal work in the enclosure, the surfaces should be decontaminated.
General Requirements for Asbestos Removal
Asbestos removal should be done per the SafeWork requirements.
Dry ACM shouldn’t be disturbed unless necessary.
Techniques that minimize asbestos fiber generation should be practiced.
Asbestos Removal Unit
While selecting tools for asbestos removal, adequate care should be taken.
Tools that minimize asbestos dispersion of airborne asbestos fibers should be used.
Power tools should be avoided because of internal contamination possibility.
Manual tools are preferred use.
A constant low-pressure is required to wet down asbestos, which can be achieved with a garden hose with a pistol grip. In the case of mo water supply, another portable pressurized vessel can be used.
Asbestos vacuum cleaners should also comply with the relevant authority’s regulations.
Warning:
Domestic filters, even if they have HEPA, are unsuitable to use.
Larger pieces should never be worked on to make them small to get collected by asbestos vacuum.
Personal Protective Equipment
Respiratory protective equipment is mandatory for all the persons engaged in removal work as per AS/NZS 1716-2012.
Selection, maintenance, and use of respirators must comply with AS/NZS1715-2009.
Protective gear is mandatory at all times till final clearance inspection.
Protective equipment should be made of material that can effectively inhibit fiber penetration: no pockets or Velcro fastenings on overalls.
Disposable covers are preferred to use. They should be properly disposed of and never used again.
