Most often asbestos is removed during maintenance activities, or during remodeling projects. During larger projects or projects of greater complexity, negative pressure enclosures are constructed to prevent the release of any asbestos fibers into the occupied areas of the building. Example of a negative pressure enclosure for a Class I abatement project in a campus mechanical room. The large box-like object in the center is a HEPA filtered negative pressure machine. This device both filters the air inside the enclosure of any asbestos fibers that may be liberated during the removal process and prevents the release of any fibers from escaping the enclosure.
Contractors also monitor their own employees involved in abatement activities.
All projects are conducted to minimize disruption to campus activities. UWM courtesy sign for non-regulated areas. Awareness Training is required for Class IV work. Repair and maintenance training is required for Class III work. Additional training and certification is required for Class I or Class II work.