On asbestos removal sites, pressure difference measurement is a key part of the safety protocol. It ensures that areas containing asbestos fibres remain isolated and that the exposure of workers and the surrounding environment to asbestos is kept to a minimum.
Why is pressure difference measurement important?
Asbestos removal work easily releases fibres that are hazardous to the respiratory tract. Negative pressurisation of the removal area combined with monitoring of the pressure difference ensures that asbestos fibres cannot spread to the surrounding spaces. Pressure difference measurement is therefore an essential part of safety in asbestos removal work.
Requirements for pressure difference measurement
In asbestos removal work, the pressure difference between the removal area and the surrounding spaces must be at least 5 pascals. When removing crocidolite (blue asbestos), the pressure difference must be at least 10 pascals.
The stability of the pressure difference must be monitored continuously with a recording measuring device that raises an alarm if the pressure difference falls below the required level.
Positioning the measuring equipment
The measuring point of the pressure difference meter must be placed at least 50 cm from the intake collar of the negative pressure unit and from the airlock tunnel, so that the measurement result is not distorted.
Alarm system and preparedness
Pressure difference measurement must be equipped with an alarm that signals any adverse change in the pressure difference. The details of the person responding to alarms must be recorded in the safety plan for the asbestos work. Power cuts must also be prepared for, for example with backup power or by connecting the negative pressure units to different circuits. In Loopshore's solution, the device's battery pack keeps the measurement running.
Summary
Pressure difference measurement is a cornerstone of safety on asbestos removal sites. It ensures that the spread of asbestos fibres is effectively prevented, protecting both workers and the environment. By strictly following the requirements and guidelines for pressure difference measurement, asbestos removal work can be carried out safely and efficiently.