When asbestos is present in a home, it must be handled with care. Containment is one of the most important steps during removal, and homeowners should know exactly what to expect. Our team at Envirotech has seen how proper preparation makes the difference between a safe project and one that carries unnecessary risks. In this article, we will walk through what happens during a containment setup and why each part matters.
Preparing the Work Area
Every project starts with preparation. We first identify the exact location of asbestos materials and then decide how large the containment zone should be. The affected rooms are cleared of furniture and personal belongings so that dust has no surfaces to settle on. After that, we set up plastic sheeting to create sealed barriers on floors, walls, and ceilings. This prevents asbestos fibers from moving to other areas of the home.
It is important to understand that preparation also includes air control. We use specialized equipment to maintain negative air pressure inside the work zone. This way, if any fibers escape, they are pulled into a filter system rather than spreading. Homeowners often ask if this step is really necessary. The answer is yes, because it ensures safety beyond the visible area. More details about this process can be found by learning about asbestos abatement in Calgary.
Entry and Exit Protocols
Access to a containment zone is carefully controlled. We install decontamination chambers so workers can safely enter and exit without carrying fibers out of the space. These chambers often include multiple sections: a clean area, a shower area, and a dirty area. Each section acts as a checkpoint to reduce contamination risks.
As homeowners, you may notice workers following strict routines when moving in and out. This is not an extra precaution but a required step. It protects your home and the team performing the work. We also encourage homeowners to avoid the area completely during removal. Containment only works if it remains undisturbed, so limiting access is part of the safety plan.
Air Filtration Systems
Air management is central to containment. High efficiency particulate air filters (HEPA) are set up to capture fibers released during work. These filters are tested and maintained throughout the project. Without them, even the best plastic barriers would not be enough.
We often explain to homeowners that the filtration units work continuously until clearance testing is complete. This means the equipment stays running after workers finish each shift. It may sound like overkill, but fibers are microscopic and can remain airborne for long periods. Therefore, continuous filtration ensures that the area becomes safe faster. When you hire an abatement & remediation company in Calgary, you should expect this level of detail in containment.
Safety Monitoring During Work
During containment, monitoring is ongoing. Our team checks air pressure gauges, inspects seals, and confirms that filters are working correctly. If a seal is breached, immediate repairs are made to prevent exposure. These checks happen multiple times a day.
In addition, air quality testing is often conducted while work is ongoing. This reassures homeowners that conditions remain under control. Although this testing may not always be required, it is a sign of thorough practice. Asbestos projects are never routine, and every situation can present unique challenges. Careful monitoring ensures the project stays on track.
Cleaning and Waste Handling
After asbestos materials are removed, cleanup begins inside the containment. Surfaces are wiped with damp cloths, and HEPA vacuums are used to capture any remaining particles. Waste is double-bagged in approved containers and labeled clearly. This ensures that it can be transported safely to a disposal site.
Homeowners should not be surprised by the volume of waste produced. Even small projects generate large amounts of sealed material, because everything that could have collected fibers must be treated as contaminated. This includes protective suits, plastic barriers, and disposable tools. Proper waste handling is one of the last but most important steps in containment.
Clearance Testing Before Reentry
Once cleaning is complete, clearance testing is performed. This process measures the level of airborne fibers inside the containment area. Only when the results confirm safe levels can the space be reopened. This testing provides homeowners with peace of mind that their living space is free from harmful exposure.
It is important not to rush this step. Even if the area looks clean, microscopic fibers could still be present. Professional testing is the only reliable way to confirm safety. If the test does not meet the standard, further cleaning is done until results improve. For peace of mind, you can review the process by reaching out through our contact us page.
Homeowner Preparation and Expectations
Homeowners play an important role in containment success. Before work begins, you should expect to move belongings out of the affected areas. Access will be limited for the duration of the project, so planning daily routines around this restriction helps. You should also expect some noise from air machines running continuously.
Our team always explains the timeline and steps before beginning, but it is helpful if homeowners ask questions whenever they need clarification. The more you understand, the smoother the process will be. Asbestos containment is not just about sealing an area; it is about creating trust that your home remains safe while the work is done.
FAQs
How long does asbestos containment usually take?
The length depends on the size of the affected area and the amount of material being removed. Small projects may take a few days, while larger ones can extend to weeks.
Can I stay in my house during asbestos removal?
In many cases, you can remain in parts of the home that are outside the containment zone. However, this depends on the location and scale of the project. It is best to confirm with the team on-site.
What should I do to prepare my home before containment starts?
Remove personal belongings and furniture from the affected area. Make sure pathways are clear so the team can move equipment easily.
Why is negative air pressure important in containment?
It ensures that air flows into the work zone instead of out. This keeps fibers from escaping into the rest of the house and protects your living space.
Is clearance testing always required?
Yes, clearance testing is the final step to verify that the area is safe to reenter. Without it, there is no reliable way to confirm fiber levels have dropped to safe limits.