Note: Javascript is disabled or is not supported by your browser. For this reason, some items on this page will be unavailable. For more information about this message, please visit this page: About CDC.gov.

A walk through survey of control technology for reducing exposure during asbestos (1332214) removal (SIC-1799) at James Monroe Elementary School, Norfolk, Virginia was conducted in July, 1984. The later stages of asbestos removal from the boiler room equipment were observed. Engineering controls consisted of using the containment barrier control method recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency guidelines for asbestos removal and maintaining the containment area under negative pressure. Magnehelic gauges, however, were not able to detect a steady 0.2 inch negative pressure across the barrier. Wet removal procedures were used and water was applied liberally. Interior and exterior monitoring was performed by analyzing samples obtained by battery powered sampling pumps by phase contrast and scanning electron microscopy. Workers wore disposable coveralls and half/face cartridge respirators. Walk through decontamination showers were located at the entrance to the enclosure. The author notes that at the time of the survey, the negative air control system apparently was not working at its peak efficiency. He recommends that more emphasis be placed on maintaining this equipment. An indepth survey of the contractor is not warranted as removal technologies of current interest (glove bags, injection/wetting, local ventilation) were not used.