Commercial Asbestos Encapsulation Service

Not all asbestos can be removed safely. In certain situations, it also makes more sense financially to leave it where it is and seal off the harmful material.

By sealing the asbestos, the safety of your environment is increased—this is known as asbestos encapsulation.

At Jim’s Asbestos Removal, we can arrange testing and a visual inspection of your property to determine the most suitable asbestos-related service for your situation.

Asbestos Encapsulation is one of these options.  The Asbestos-containing material (often roof or wall sheeting) is managed by coating the asbestos with a sealant which penetrates the asbestos, hardening the fibers and preventing the release of asbestos fibers and dust.

A bridging encapsulant and a penetrating encapsulant are used. They both work differently but serve the same purpose: to create a safer environment.

A bridging encapsulant serves to bridge the fibers over the surface whereas a penetrating encapsulant penetrates the material. The latter also binds its components, retarding any dangerous fallout.

In many cases, encapsulation is a more practical and affordable process to removal in commercial and industrial settings, however, it does have its limitations.

Asbestos encapsulation is not considered a safe or suitable solution in areas where the asbestos is already significantly damaged, or subject to potential damage by disturbance or water. For instance, encapsulation is discouraged if you would consider demolishing or upgrading the commercial or industrial workspace in any way. Drilling and sanding, for example, can still disrupt or break the encapsulated area, putting you at risk.

Asbestos encapsulation is a solution to many current or potential dangers faced by owners of commercial and industrial property, especially where asbestos sheeting is present on a large scale and removal would be both costly and disruptive.

When completed by experienced professionals, any immediate risk of exposure is contained.

Unlike the removal process, asbestos encapsulation doesn’t require occupants to move off-site in most cases.  This means that the process is both quicker, less disruptive and more cost-effective than other alternatives.

For more information on the protocol and recommendations for asbestos management, you can view the Guide to the Control of Asbestos Hazards in Buildings and Structures on the Safe Work Australia Website.