Asbestos Removal Service
Apogee Environmental Solutions is your premier choice for asbestos removal projects, combining unparalleled expertise with a commitment to safety and quality. Our team of highly trained professionals adheres to the highest industry standards to ensure safe and effective asbestos abatement. We utilize state-of-the-art equipment and advanced techniques to meticulously manage and remove hazardous materials, safeguarding both your property and the environment.
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Asbestos was commonly used in various building materials, including drywall joint compounds, insulation, flooring, and ceiling tiles, from the 1940s to the late 1970s due to its desirable properties such as fire resistance, strength, and insulating capabilities. In drywall joint compound, also known as "mud," asbestos was added to enhance durability and performance, as it was used to seal joints between sheets of drywall and cover imperfections. Asbestos was also incorporated into products like pipe insulation, vinyl flooring, and textured coatings, further contributing to its widespread use in construction. However, the health hazards of asbestos exposure—ranging from respiratory diseases like asbestosis to cancers such as lung cancer and mesothelioma—became increasingly evident. By the late 1970s, regulatory measures were introduced to limit and eventually ban the use of asbestos in these materials. Despite these regulations, many older buildings still contain asbestos-containing products, making careful management and abatement necessary to protect public health.
Cost
Asbestos removal is inherently costly. As much as we would like to provide a single price here, it is simply not possible. But don't worry we offer free same day estimates. Simply fill out our contact form or give us a call at +1 (343) 988-0970. We can set up a time to see the project and provide an estimate that day.​​​​ Check out our blog on some available government assistance programs.
Labor
The primary expense in an abatement project is labor, driven by the significant safety risks associated with asbestos handling. Workers in this field are compensated at a premium due to the dangerous nature of the job, requiring extensive training and specialized certifications to ensure safe and effective removal.​​​​​​​
Disposal
Another significant expense is disposal. Asbestos waste can't be discarded in regular landfills it requires special certifications, licenses, and permits for safe transportation and disposal. Disposal costs can very dramatically between the different forms of asbestos being removed largely due to the varying weights. For example a single rooms worth of plaster can weigh over 2,000lbs.
Other
Additional costs include specialized abatement equipment, advanced safety gear, site preparation, site protection, meticulous planning, and comprehensive insurance coverage.
Asbestos Removal Process
Initially, we assess the specific type of abatement (asbestos removal) required to ensure the safe removal of asbestos. In Ottawa there are three classifications of asbestos abatement: Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3. Each successive level necessitates more stringent safety protocols and distinct asbestos removal procedures to adequately manage the associated risks and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
This phase involves the construction of a secure enclosure around the project area using reinforced polyethylene sheeting. Following this, a three-chamber decontamination unit is constructed at the entrance to the project site to ensure controlled access and egress. Finally, negative air machines are installed to maintain a pressurized containment, ensuring that airborne contaminants are effectively managed and prevented from escaping the work area during the asbestos removal process.
The removal of asbestos containing material can now commence. The removal method employed will be determined by the specific abatement classification being implemented.
Once all asbestos-containing material has been removed, the cleaning process begins. The entire project area, including the interior of the containment and decontamination chambers, undergoes a meticulous three-step cleaning procedure. First, the area is thoroughly vacuumed using high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuums to capture any residual asbestos fibers. Next, the surfaces are wiped down with damp cloths to remove any remaining particles. Finally, a second pass with HEPA vacuums is conducted to ensure the area is completely free of contaminants. The cleaning process is an absolutely critical part of the asbestos removal procedures.
Air Testing following an abatement project is only required in Ottawa under O.Reg 278/05 for Type-3 abatement projects. However, any asbestos removal project can undergo air testing. Upon request air testing can be completed.
What is negative pressure? It refers to creating a controlled pressure imbalance between the work area and the surrounding environment. By maintaining negative pressure, any potential gaps in the containment cause air to be drawn into the work area, preventing asbestos fibers released during demolition from escaping.
Negative Pressure.
The initial step in any asbestos abatement project is the meticulous containment of the work area. Our team employs a process we refer to as 'arts and crafts,' where we skillfully construct an airtight enclosure using polyethylene sheets and Tuck-Tape. This enclosure isolates the project area, ensuring no asbestos fibers escape.
Containment.
The asbestos waste bags we use are designed for maximum safety. These bags are 6 mil thick and are colored yellow with clear hazardous material warning labels. This ensures that anyone handling the bags is immediately aware of their contents and the associated risks.
Hazardous Waste Bags.
Interactive Safety Image
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The first stage, known as the 'dirty room,' is where workers remove and dispose of their single-use, non-porous suits in asbestos waste bags. Next, they proceed to the 'shower room,' equipped with water, soap, and towels to thoroughly cleanse any asbestos fibers that may have adhered to their masks, boots, hands, or bodies. The final stage, the 'clean room,' is where workers can safely remove their masks and change back into their regular clothing.
Decontamination.
The specialized personal protective equipment (PPE) required for each worker plays a crucial role in safeguarding both the individuals on-site and those outside the project area. The most vital piece of PPE is the respirator. Apogee equips workers with two types of respirators: the commonly used half-face respirator, which employs two P-100 filters to purify the air, and the powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR), which covers the entire face and uses an air pump to automatically filter and supply clean air.
Personal Protective Equipment.
