Asbestos removal, abatement, and disposal process

Asbestos removal and abatement process is a normal and routine in construction activity. It is highly regulated and controlled, and is carried out by specially licensed companies. These companies have to follow very stringent laws and regulations, so as to make sure that no one is in danger of exposure during removal.

The process of removing asbestos is comprised of several key steps. First the targeted area to be abated is completely isolated from adjacent areas. This is done with the
placement of impermeable barriers, usually high thickness vinyl and/or plastic sheeting, that is completely sealed at its perimeter by duct tape. Holes in floors and mechanical equipment areas are sealed and plugged to form clean room environment. Special air filters and vacuum units are then installed within these clean rooms. During removal process, these filters will contain, isolate and monitor the air and allow for testing of any trace amounts of free asbestos. Asbestos removal workers enter the clean area via special airlocks, clothed in tyvek suits. The asbestos is usually dampened to facilitate its aggregation and removal. The removal itself is done by hand, with workers placing the abated material into special bags, each of which is sealed and tagged prior to removal from the clean area. The sealed bags are then transported to licensed disposal sites. The quantity of material is manifested for tagging and tracking to its final destination. Before, during and after the abatement process, continual air monitoring is in place. The data collected is transmitted to independent testing labs for analysis and reporting.

The procedure is stringently monitored in order to make sure the process is made as safe as possible for the asbestos workers, the adjacent occupants and the local area at large.

If asbestos removal is not done properly and safely, then there exists a significant risk of exposure, which can later lead to many deadly diseases such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. If you or someone you know have been wrongfully exposed to asbestos during the asbestos removal process, then you may wish to contact a Weitz & Luxenburg lawyer to learn about the legal options available to you.  Please be aware that there are legal time constraints, so the faster you act, the better off you will be. Start by filling out our form below. Its easy and its free.