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U.S. Department of Energy
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In-depth survey report: Evaluation of a custom-fabricated negative air glove bag during the removal of asbestos-containing pipe lagging, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:5232111

A study was conducted to document and evaluate effective control techniques that minimize the risk of potential health hazards during the removal of asbestos (1332214) containing lagging from pipes. The project, under study at the University of Massachusetts, involved the construction of a Custom Fabricated Negative Air Glove Bag enclosure on site to fit the task and the removal of thermal insulation from three hot water pipes. About 145 feet of Aircel thermal insulation was removed from approximately equal lengths of 1 inch, 2 inch, and 3 inch hot water pipes as was the asbestos magnesium insulation on 13 tees. The Aircel contained 45 to 60% chrysotile (12001295) and the joint cement 10 to 20% amosite (12172735) and 30 to 40% chrysotile. Waste disposal chutes were built into the bottom of the bag at convenient intervals and waste bags were attached with adhesive and duct tape to receive the debris. The bags were fitted into fiber drums which sat on the floor. The removal work inside the bag was performed under a net negative pressure. When the asbestos removal was completed the pipes and the bag and its supporting structure were washed thoroughly, then the wet bag was collapsed by removing the pipe framework while the vacuum was operating. The PVC pipe was wiped clean with a wet rag as it was extracted. The containment bag was cut free along the top and simultaneously rolled up under the pipes, and bagged for disposal. The authors concluded that the concept of a negative pressure glove bag was clearly better than that of standard glove bags.

Research Organization:
National Inst. for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH (United States)
OSTI ID:
5232111
Report Number(s):
PB-91-212647/XAB; ECTB--147-22A
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English