Innovations in Safety Equipment

The UK asbestos removal industry has recently adopted several innovations in safety equipment for protecting both workers and clients.

 

The removal of asbestos, a hazardous material that poses significant health risks, has undergone remarkable advancements in recent years. Asbestos, once widely used in construction and industrial applications, is now recognised as a severe health threat, linked to conditions such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. The complexity and danger associated with asbestos removal demand stringent safety measures to protect workers, clients, and the environment.

In the UK, the asbestos removal industry has embraced cutting-edge innovations in safety equipment and technology, revolutionising the way this delicate process is managed. These advancements aim to minimise human exposure to airborne asbestos fibres, streamline removal operations, and ensure a safer environment for all stakeholders.

This discussion explores the latest developments in safety equipment that are making asbestos removal safer and more reliable than ever.

Advanced HEPA Filtration Systems

High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters have been improved to capture 99.97% of asbestos fibres during removal processes. These systems ensure cleaner air in work environments, significantly reducing the risk of inhaling hazardous fibres.

Switchless and Cordless Respiratory Equipment

Innovations in personal protective equipment include switchless technology in respiratory devices, where clean air fans activate upon detecting the user’s breath and deactivate shortly after removal. Cordless functionality further improves mobility and safety for workers during asbestos abatement.

Enhanced Asbestos Detection Technologies

Advancements in detection methods, such as photonic sensing technology and portable devices like the Alert PRO 1000, allow for real-time monitoring of airborne asbestos fibres. These tools provide immediate data, enabling prompt action to mitigate exposure risks.

These technological developments are setting new safety standards in the asbestos removal industry, ensuring more effective protection for both workers and clients.

Alternative abrasive blasting methods

Traditional methods like sandblasting can release asbestos fibres. Alternative methods like sponge blasting or dry ice blasting can be a better way to prepare surfaces where asbestos is present.

Robotic technologies

Robots can be used to remove asbestos. They can be built with specialised tools and cameras to perform removal tasks from a distance. This minimises human exposure to asbestos.

Disposable containment units

Portable units with built-in filtration and ventilation can be used to isolate asbestos removal areas. These can then be disposed of to prevent contamination

Chemical & Biological Remediation

New chemical treatments involve changing the molecular structure of asbestos fibre, making them less harmful. Eco-friendly, non-toxic and bio-degradable solvent are also being created. Biological remediation using microorganisms that can naturally break down asbestos fibres.

How H&S Asbestos can help

By prioritising asbestos removal, you’re not just addressing a current concern—you’re investing in a future free of preventable risks. And that’s priceless.

We are a fully licensed Asbestos Removal company based on the South Coast. We have been established since 2020, and our management team have over 50 years of industry experience.

Asbestos removal is a meticulous process involving multiple stages to ensure safety and regulatory compliance. Proper planning, execution, and documentation are crucial to effectively manage the risks associated with asbestos exposure.

If you are unsure or would like to talk to the team about potential asbestos on-site, please get in contact on 02392 833178 or by emailing info@handsasbestos.co.uk.