Asbestos removal means removing asbestos-containing materials from a building. It is licensed special work, which can only be done by a registered asbestos removal company. In this article, we will go through the process and the requirements of asbestos removal.
Who is allowed to do asbestos removal work?
Asbestos removal work may only be carried out by a company that is registered in the register of asbestos removal companies maintained by the Regional State Administrative Agency for Western and Inland Finland. Registration requires:
- Appropriate equipment and protective equipment
- Trained personnel
- Documented work methods
- Liability insurance
As a private individual you may not remove asbestos-containing materials yourself, not even in his own home.
The stages of asbestos removal
1. Asbestos survey
Before the removal work, an asbestos survey must be carried out on the site, which tells where asbestos is present and what kind of asbestos it is.
2. Demolition plan
The removal company prepares a written demolition plan that includes work methods, protection measures and waste handling.
3. Advance notice
The removal company makes a preliminary notification to the Regional State Administrative Agency at least 7 days before starting the work.
4. Compartmentalization
The work site is isolated from the rest of the space with the compartmentalization method. The enclosed area is held under negative pressure, so that asbestos fibres cannot escape into the environment. Compartmentalization includes plastic sheeting, negative-pressure units and sealed openings.
5. The removal work
The materials are dismantled by moistening and binding the dust. Workers wear personal protective equipment, such as full face masks and protective suits.
6. Cleanliness inspection
After the removal work, the enclosed area is cleaned carefully and, if necessary, it can be measured with air samples that the asbestos fiber content is sufficiently low.
7. Waste disposal
Asbestos waste is packed in tight, marked sacks and delivered to a hazardous waste treatment facility. Asbestos waste must not be placed in normal construction waste.
Safety equipment
Protective equipment used in asbestos removal work:
- P3 class respirator or full face mask
- Disposable protective suit
- Protective gloves
- Safety shoes
Asbestos removal is a special job that requires professional skills and the right equipment. Never try to dismantle asbestos materials yourself - order an asbestos survey and use an authorized removal company.