Industrial demolition
Asbestos and hazardous materials removal
Safe removal of structures and materials containing substances harmful to health
Removal of materials harmful to health
Asbestos and hazardous materials removal is a stage of a wider demolition project in which materials and structures containing substances harmful to health are removed safely. Where needed, our AHA-certified experts carry out an asbestos and hazardous materials survey, in other words determining the quantity, type, location and dustiness class of asbestos and other harmful substances, after which the materials are removed safely.
Our AHA-certified experts minimise health risks by preventing the spread of harmful dust and particles, by choosing the right working methods and equipment for each site, and by working under strictly controlled conditions.
Why choose us?
- Our AHA-certified experts survey the quantity, type, location and dustiness class of asbestos and other hazardous materials, if this has not yet been done.
- Our AHA-certified experts safely remove structures and materials containing asbestos and other hazardous substances.
- We stick to the schedule.
- Our 2024 NPS of 82 shows that our clients are satisfied with our services and are happy to recommend them.
What are hazardous materials?
The substances harmful to health that are investigated in connection with demolition work are asbestos, PAH and PCB compounds and heavy metals, which have been widely used in various building materials in different eras.
Asbestos has been used, for example, as a heat and fire protection material and in insulation, paints, adhesives, coatings, fillers, and tile fixing and grouting mortars. PAH compounds are found in old bitumen-based waterproofing, among other things, while PCB compounds have been used as insulating materials, in paints and as plasticisers in sealants. Heavy metals such as lead may have been used in paints, pipework and electrical equipment.
Removal methods are chosen to suit the site
Removal methods are always tailored to the site and the materials being removed. Asbestos and hazardous materials removal often requires a precise, controlled method to prevent particles from spreading. Removal is often done by hand, with the help of tools such as disc cutters, jigsaws and floor stripping machines that make the work more efficient.
In certain situations, such as outdoor removal work, other methods can also be used. For example, wet sandblasting from sheeted scaffolding, local exhaust extraction with vacuum units, or glove bag removal work well in situations where dust control is particularly challenging. In some cases, larger structural components, such as facade or roof panels, can be detached in one piece and transported to protected waste skips that are clearly labelled for asbestos waste.
Materials containing asbestos and hazardous substances are tightly packed as the work progresses, and once the work is complete they are taken to a waste facility, where they are treated and disposed of appropriately.
Making hazardous materials removal safe
Safety comes from careful safety measures designed to prevent all risk of exposure. We make the removal of asbestos and other hazardous materials safe through careful safety measures that protect both our workers and the environment from the effects of substances harmful to health.
Protective measures are essential to prevent workers from being exposed. Our workers wear full-body protective coveralls and safety boots, which are sealed with tape. Their faces are protected by a mask with a powered respirator system, adjusted to fit each worker’s face. When the work is finished, all equipment is carefully cleaned, and disposable coveralls are tightly packed and safely disposed of along with the other hazardous materials.
Isolating the work area is also an essential part of hazardous materials removal, as it prevents hazardous substances from spreading into the surroundings. Areas containing asbestos are tightly sealed off and mechanically kept under negative pressure, so that the particles generated during the work stay within the enclosed area. This method is also effective at other sites that require careful dust control, such as mould damage repairs.
Key things to remember about hazardous materials removal
- Asbestos and hazardous materials surveys are required by law for all buildings to be demolished that were completed before 1994, and are also advisable for buildings that may be suspected of containing hazardous materials.
- It is worth carrying out the asbestos and hazardous materials survey as early as the project planning stage, as demolition work cannot begin until the surveys have been completed.
- Asbestos and hazardous materials surveys and removal can only be carried out by an AHA-certified asbestos and hazardous materials expert.
- We offer asbestos and hazardous materials surveys and removal carried out by AHA-certified operatives as part of other demolition projects.
Contact us
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There are superpowers behind every uncompromising result
Hazmat Tolerance
We’re not immune to hazardous materials, but we know exactly how to handle them safely.
Risk Compass
There’s nothing magical about our risk management – it’s based on careful anticipation and nearly 40 years of experience in challenging working environments. We spot risks before they arise and ensure safety on every project.
Safety Shield
Safety is our number one priority. We don’t have an invisible force field, but our commitment to health and safety ensures that everyone on site and in the surrounding area stays safe.
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See also asbestos and hazardous materials survey
A complete picture of the structures and materials containing substances harmful to health, plus precise instructions for their safe removal
