Licensed asbestos abatement professionals can inspect a home or business for potential exposure to the hazardous fibers. Then, they can remove and dispose of the affected materials. They also use protective gear to prevent exposure. This includes a respirator with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter and disposable coveralls. They also build a decontamination area and seal the work area. After their work, they dispose of the waste in specialized bags at an approved landfill that accepts asbestos.
Prep work is the most important step of any Asbestos Abatement Queens project. It keeps asbestos fibers from becoming airborne and protects the abatement specialists from inhaling them. It includes sealing and covering the area, installing negative airflow fans, using safety equipment, and applying encapsulants or chemical sealants.
The cost of the prep work will vary based on several factors. For example, the size of a residential or commercial space can influence how much it costs to seal off the area during prep. Additionally, the type of material being removed will have an effect on the price. Friable asbestos is more expensive to remove because it is more likely to become airborne.
When a professional performs an asbestos inspection, they will submit the results to the New York City Department of Environmental Protection. This report is known as the ACP-5. The report is required for demolition or construction that will disturb asbestos-containing material. It contains information about the sampled areas and a description of whether the material is non-friable or friable. The surveyor can sign and file the ACP-5, but only a certified asbestos investigator can submit the ACP-7.
A licensed asbestos abatement contractor will use HEPA vacuums and other tools to safely remove the contaminated materials. They will then properly dispose of the asbestos in an EPA-approved landfill that only accepts hazardous waste. This can be done on-site or at an offsite disposal facility.
During the abatement process, the professionals will wear masks and use a respirator with a HEPA filter. They will also use negative airflow fans to keep the air in the work area from being contaminated by the contaminants that are being released into the surrounding environment. They will also monitor the air for asbestos fibers and notify occupants of the building of the air quality.
If the air testing shows elevated levels of asbestos, workers will stop working immediately and take immediate corrective measures. This will include notifying DASNY project personnel and any employees and occupants of the area. The contractor will bear the burden of all costs associated with this delay.
Once the abatement work is complete, a Project Monitor’s Report must be submitted in ARTS. The Project Monitor must be independent of the abatement contractor. The report must include: