Unsurprisingly, asbestos removal is an overwhelming task that needs strategic planning. When dealing with asbestos abatement, taking the assistance of a professional is a must. Along with this, understanding the difference between unsafe and safe asbestos removal methods is crucial to ensure optimal results. At Asbestos Victoria, we ensure adhering to safety protocols throughout the job. We work with a proactive approach when dealing with asbestos-containing materials. This way, we eliminate the risk of loose fibres exposure. To put your confusion at bay regarding safe and unsafe methods, we have rounded up the pros and cons of different methods used for safe and efficient asbestos removal. Also, you will learn here the dos and don’ts to make a well-informed decision. So, read on!
Understanding Asbestos and Why Its Removal Is Mandatory
Asbestos is not a manufactured material used in construction projects. Instead, it is a natural material used to regulate the temperature of the building. Along with this, its application can increase the durability as well as longevity of the buildings. Despite these benefits, the Australian government has banned its usage with other building materials. According to a scientific discovery, its thin fibres, when they become airborne, can be inhaled by anyone, causing lung diseases. Professional help, therefore, is required in the removal of this substance, asbestos. The demolition of old buildings should begin with a safe asbestos removal, while avoiding unsafe asbestos practices that can put workers and the community at serious risk.
Different Methods of Asbestos Removal: Know Their Pros and Cons
Encapsulation (Safe Method)
Professionals recommend the use of the encapsulation method. It is effective in preventing the asbestos fibres from releasing into the air. It involves sealing the asbestos-containing materials (ACM). Often, this method is preferred in low-risk areas.
Advantages
- The encapsulation method often costs less when compared to other methods.
- This is a fast, reliable abatement method, ensuring minimal impact on daily life
- This ensures no removal of roofing materials or tiles, preserving your building’s integrity.
Disadvantages
- This is a short-term solution, as sealants can degrade over time
- This method is not suitable for offices or industries.
Enclosure (Safe Method with Regular Inspection)
This involves placing a physical barrier to prevent the spread of asbestos dust to the surrounding environment. However, its actual setup varies based on the quantity of asbestos-containing materials.
Advantages
- Enclosures ensure zero risk of site contamination for the long term
- These are robust and non-invasive throughout the removal work
- Often, these are set up in industries or offices.
Disadvantages
- When enclosures are installed in offices, they reduce the usable space
- Regular check-ups ensure the integrity of enclosures
- In case the physical barrier is breached, it will increase the risk of asbestos exposure.
Removal (Safe Method But High-Risk Process)
Do you want the complete extraction of the asbestos-containing materials from the property? Consider the asbestos removal method.
Advantages
- This is a permanent solution that eliminates the risk of asbestos fibres completely
- Properties with zero risk of asbestos materials are sold at higher prices
- No maintenance is needed, like encapsulation or enclosure.
Disadvantages
- Since it is more labour-intensive, it costs more
- It is more time-consuming because of diligence planning, executing strategies, and after-hours support
- It requires the temporary relocation of nearby occupants.
Wet Removal (Safe Method)
It involves spraying water on the asbestos surface, ensuring no spread of the dust in the surrounding environment.
Advantages
- With wetting, you can prevent fibres from becoming airborne
- It is highly effective for friable asbestos that can easily become brittle
- It also complies with the strict region-specific legal norms and improves safety.
Disadvantages
- It lacks how to do the safe disposal of the contaminated water
- It is not effective for water-restricted areas
- Its application requires the assistance of a professional along with specialised tools.
Dry Removal (Unsafe Method)
Is your area water-restricted due to electrical installations or water damage? Your site needs the dry removal method, which avoids the spraying of water for the suppression of the dust.
Advantages
- This method is ideal for highly sensitive areas where water usage is not feasible
- It is a faster method than the wet technique
- It eliminates the need for asbestos-contaminated water disposal.
Disadvantages
- Since the dry removal method avoids water suppression, adherence to stringent measures is vital
- It requires the need of specialised knowledge and advanced tools to mitigate the exposure risk
- It is not allowed in all regions due to health concerns.
By comparing these methods, it becomes clear why experts always highlight the difference between professional versus unsafe removal. Professional approaches such as encapsulation, enclosure, wet removal, or complete extraction are designed to minimise risks, while unsafe techniques like dry removal can increase health hazards if not strictly controlled.
Conclusion
Are you dealing with asbestos abatement? DIY methods can increase the life-threatening risks. For carrying out the suggested methods, working with a qualified professional is a must. With their extensive experience, they adhere to local regulations, enhancing safety. Also, they make sure the proper ventilation is maintained, together with wetting to minimise the spread of airborne fibres. It’s important to be aware of DIY asbestos removal dangers, as improper handling can put both you and the community at serious health risks.