Kiwis are starting to get to grips with the dangers of asbestos and the requirements for dealing with it. Removing friable asbestos is a significant undertaking and one that can only be carried out by a company engaged in asbestos removal NZ authorities have certified.

But while you might be aware of the steps you must take before renovations and demolition of asbestos-contaminated structures, do you know what happens during the process? Let us fill you in on the ins and outs of asbestos removal with asbestos enclosures.

What is an asbestos enclosure?  

Removalists use a sealed structure of wood or metal to stop the release of asbestos fibres during the asbestos removal process.

The frame has a polythene cover, and negative pressure air units make sure it’s airtight. There are also airlocks at the entry and exit points to the enclosure to promote airflow in that sealed enclosure.

When do asbestos removalists use an asbestos enclosure?

Air monitoring is a significant part of asbestos removal in New Zealand. Without this crucial step, there’s a genuine risk of dangerous asbestos fibres being released into the air.

Asbestos fibres are so small and delicate that they can lodge themselves in body and lung tissue. Our bodies are incapable of pushing them out. Therefore, over time, they can cause inflammation. The inflammation can lead to diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

Asbestos removalists in New Zealand and around the world use asbestos enclosures to keep friable asbestos in a controlled space for removal.

Typically, they are necessary when you are likely to exceed the control limit of 0.1f/cm3 and/or if asbestos removal is in a sensitive area. For example, removing asbestos in a hospital or school would require an exceptionally controlled environment with an asbestos enclosure.

How do you know an asbestos enclosure is airtight?

Putting up a metal or wood frame, covering it with polythene, and installing a negative pressure air unit doesn’t necessarily mean the enclosure will be airtight. To be sure, asbestos removalists must carry out a smoke test.

They put a smoke machine in the enclosure, turn it on, and look out for any escaping smoke. If the smoke does escape, they must rectify the problem and repeat the test until it’s 100 per cent airtight.

How do asbestos specialists remove asbestos in an enclosure?

Firstly, it’s essential to understand the situations for removing asbestos in the first place. Typically, building owners undergoing renovations and demolition of buildings with asbestos must test for it and remove it. However, if you are not touching or disturbing asbestos building materials that are in perfect condition, you do not need to remove them.

Within the asbestos enclosure, licensed asbestos specialists use removal methods based on the type of asbestos. Often, these consist of dust suppression and wetting methods. This form of removal takes place whether you use an asbestos enclosure or not.

Once the materials are removed, the specialist puts them in special heavy-duty 200 µm (minimum) polythene bags with labels. There is a specific process to follow, including double bagging, half-filling, and cleaning the external surface of the bag. Special drums or bins may also be used.

Exiting the asbestos enclosure safely

While in the asbestos enclosure, the asbestos removalist is wearing specialist personal protective equipment (PPE). This gear consists of a full-face particle respirator with a P3 filter and approved overalls for asbestos removal.

Once the removal process is complete, the removalist then wipes their masks and boots clean, vacuums the overalls, then places them into a waste bag. They will then put on clean overalls before making their way to the “clean” end of the asbestos enclosure for a decontamination shower. They can then put on their regular clothing and exit the enclosure safely. 

Can I remove asbestos myself?

There’s only one word to describe most Kiwis, and that’s resourceful. We can do a lot with very little and love nothing more than to get stuck into a home DIY project. Tasks like fence painting and gardening are those you can do easily on your own. Still, asbestos removal is not – with or without an asbestos enclosure you’ve knocked up yourself.

Legally, you can remove non-friable asbestos from your home, but there are rigorous safety steps you must follow to keep yourself, your family, and even your neighbours safe. Any friable asbestos must be removed by a WorkSafe New Zealand licensed asbestos removalist.  

Taking care of business

If the time has come to undertake asbestos removal in your home or business, then it’s always best to get in touch with an expert removalist. They know how to handle the removal process professionally including the correct use of asbestos enclosures. Are you getting ready to carry out renovations? It might be time to contact your local asbestos professionals at Chemcare today.