Thank you for weighing in. An expert is who we needed here.
Sparky, is this likely? Or would an expert simply tell you what you told us?
Yes, for a several reasons.
1.) Procedure - they treat all removal projects similarly.
2.) Equipment - they already have all the proper equipment.
3.) Disposal of the hazardous materials.
4.)To minimize contamination to adjacent areas and ensure complete removal.
5.)To minimize asbestos exposure to the workers who are exposed on a regular basis.
6.) It gives the homeowner peace of mind.
7.) to make money.
The first step would be to have a sample tested to verify that it actually contains asbestos then you could decide how to proceed.
I’m in Canada but in the US, I believe the EPA and your state law dictate acceptable removal procedures.
The most common procedure would be to tent the area, flood the floor with water, remove tile with a flat spade, and place in 6 mil. bag (while still wet), then seal the bags and deliver it to the proper hazardous waste disposal site.
A Tyvek suit and a [FONT=PalatinoLTStd-BoldItalic][SIZE=2]a respirator fitted with a NIOSH 100(HEPA) filter is the basic (minimum) level of protection.
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Then what was that “Type 1” operation you were talking about?
It is a Canadian classification, apparently.
Here is a summary of the procedures for Ontario, Canada that should tell you all you need to know.
I’m no expert, but in the U.S. I’d say it’s likely that the recomendation would be that you simply leave the floor alone and put a new floor over it, perhaps after sealing the tiles.
After digging, I found that it’s a state issue, and most states don’t require removal. Most also regulate who can remove it.
The decision to remove it is up to the homeowner but removal is recommended if the flooring has significant wear or damage resulting in the material becoming friable, or in the case of a future renovation or demolition which could also yield this result.
Did you read your own cite?
41 states and the District of Columbia “do not generally require licensed asbestos abatement personnel to remove non-friable asbestos containing floor tiles when Recommended Work Practices (RWP’s) are used”
You obviously have a bone to pick in this debate, I have provided my 2 cents, take it or leave it. I’m out.
Ravenman: Good Luck with the project. Let us know how it goes and if you need any further advice.
I meant most have something to say about who can remove it, not that they don’t allow homeowners to do it.
I’m just having a conversation. Glad you could provide your expert input.