December 19, 2005—The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is submitting a draft Quality Assurance Project Plan for external review for the Alternative Asbestos Control Method demonstration project. An alternative method for removing asbestos from older buildings during demolition will be evaluated and compared to removal techniques previously authorized by National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP).
If successful, the newer method could allow the safe demolition of many abandoned buildings around the nation that present serious risks to nearby residents, says the EPA. Using the Alternative Asbestos Control Method, these former contaminated areas would then be available for redevelopment, creating jobs and tax revenues for communities.
The Alternative Asbestos Control Method first removes the most friable (easily crushed to a powder) asbestos-containing materials before demolition, but leaves some asbestos-containing materials (primarily wall systems) in place. Then the demolition proceeds, using water containing agents similar to detergents to increase the water’s ability to penetrate dust layers and surfaces, trap asbestos fibers, and minimize their potential release to air.
The newer method will be tested in spring 2006 at a remote location at Fort Chaffee, AK. The 30-day public comment period started December 8. Additional information on the research project and draft plan (Docket number: EPA-HQ-ORD-2005-0028) is available from the EPA.
