How to Safely Remove Asbestos Pipe Insulation

Asbestos pipe insulation is not uncommon in homes that have asbestos insulation in the walls or the siding. Asbestos was widely used in the construction industry in part because it was inexpensive but also because it was effective. Asbestos pipe insulation wraps around the entire pipe as a way to keep them warm in the winter to avoid frozen pipes and cooler in the summer so that water can heat or cool quickly.

Asbestos fibers can cause several health problems from skin irritation to lung cancer. The health concerns are the reason why asbestos should be removed. The information below will walk you through how to remove asbestos pipe insulation correctly with minimal exposure.

Step 1 – Room Preparation

When you begin to remove asbestos you can easily cause the fibers to enter the air and when that happens you can inhale it. It is important to prepare the area so that when you remove asbestos pipe insulation that you protect your area to protect your health.

Put on the disposable clothing so that your arms and legs are covered. You also want to cover your head and your eyes and to use a respirator with an asbestos approved filter. Disposable coveralls are a good choice. Place the plastic sheeting over the floors and along the walls using the tape. You want the entire room covered and sealed. This includes covering doors and windows.

Step 2 – Asbestos Pipe Insulation Removal

When you are confident that the room is covered and protected you can start removing the insulation from the pipes. Make sure your water bottle is full of water and saturate the asbestos pipe insulation. Work in sections from seam to seam of the insulation. Once the insulation is soaked; use the utility knife to cut the section along the side of the pipe. Spray the insulation as you make your cut so that the cut edge is also wet.

Wet asbestos is less likely to produce fibers. As each section is removed you will want to place it directly into the asbestos disposal bags. This has to be done while it is still wet to reduce the amount airborne fibers. Do this until all of the asbestos pipe insulation has been removed and bagged. Seal the bag with the tape.

Step 3 – Cleaning Up

After all of the asbestos pipe insulation has been removed you may leave the room. Remove your clothing before entering the main part of the building and either discard it or wet it down. Wait an entire day so that any fibers in the air have a chance to settle on the plastic.

Put on a fresh set of clothing and enter the room with new water. Spray down the plastic with the water as you enter the room then switch to a mop. Once the plastic is wet enough you can start removing it and bagging it. Once the plastic is removed you will want to wash down all of the surfaces.