Engine room preparation

Removal or encapsulation of exposed, disturbed and deteriorated asbestos should be considered since it is likely that the asbestos will break free and create debris during sinking. If the asbestos is to be encapsulated, the encapsulation should be strong enough that its integrity will not be impacted by the preparation for sinking as well as the sinking itself.

The primary source of friable asbestos is pipe wrappings around the main boilers and steam fittings. On most vessels the asbestos coating, which is 1 to 3 inches thick, is covered with canvas and is usually painted. If work needs to be done around the piping and the covering, causing the asbestos to be disturbed, the disturbed material should be removed.

If the covering is deteriorated and it is likely that the asbestos will break free during sinking, then removal or encapsulation with an epoxy or other non-water soluble and non-toxic sealer should be considered.

Certain boilers and piping are covered with a very friable asbestos paste. If such friable asbestos is not covered with canvas and/or paint, the friable asbestos should be sealed or encapsulated with an epoxy or other non-water soluble and non-toxic sealer.