Asbestos Encapsulation Service

As a licensed Health & Safety Executive asbestos contractor there are a wide range of asbestos services available from Safeline Environmental. One of these services is the encapsulation of asbestos, which is detailed on this page.

Defining asbestos encapsulation?

To define asbestos encapsulation, it is helpful to explain the two words:

  • Asbestos – “Asbestos is a grey material which does not burn, and which has been used as a protection against fire or heat.” Source: Collins Dictionary. To learn more about asbestos, read Safeline Environmental’s - “What is asbestos?” article
  • Encapsulation – “Encapsulation is defined as the inclusion of one thing within another thing so that the included thing is no longer apparent. Encapsulating asbestos involves covering or enclosing it in another material to prevent health risks.” Source: Safeopedia

When we refer to asbestos, we are in practice referring to an asbestos contaminated material (ACM), i.e., not always 100% asbestos.

The approach involved

Encapsulation is an approach where the ACMs are coated with a protective layer to prevent microscopic asbestos fibres from becoming airborne. ACMs vary and include pipe insulation, boards, and a range of other asbestos uses.

Upon contacting Safeline, a team member will discuss your circumstances and arrange for a site visit. Only then will we fully understand your circumstances and be able to plan an approach moving forward as well as send a quote through for work needed.

Our asbestos removal quote will include planned work ahead. Work areas are likely to include an audit, risk assessment, testing/sampling before encapsulation work can begin. We would notify the

 Health & Safety Executive (HSE) of the presence of asbestos and planned approach as a part of the work, which would fully comply with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

Loft insulation with asbestos contamination

Loft insulation with asbestos contamination

Applying an encapsulation layer

The ACM may need some prior work before adding an encapsulation layer, the ACM needs to be in good condition before it is encapsulated.

A variety of encapsulation methods are used, we can advise more about this at the time as the method varies for different jobs. Some of the methods used include:

  • High Build elastomeric coating
  • Mechanical encapsulation
  • Penetrating encapsulants and
  • Water-based epoxy resins

After the work, it is usual for labels or signs to be applied to the protective layer giving a warning and notice that asbestos lies behind.

All encapsulation work is completed by experienced, skilled, and trained Safeline asbestos professionals (we do not subcontract work). Our services are fully compliant with related legislation and industry best practices. We always do our utmost to avoid business disruption and guarantee your site will be left safe for all users of the building.

Reasons to choose encapsulation

Although, it is highly desirable to dispose of asbestos sometimes encapsulation is a preferred solution.

As an Asbestos Removal Contractors Association ARCA registered member, we will always consider the “When is Encapsulation Appropriate” guidelines, which are detailed in Section 4 of ARCA’s “Guidance for the Encapsulation of Asbestos Containing Materials”

Here are some of the main reasons asbestos encapsulation may be chosen:

  • Less disruptive – this can be of major benefit as it means businesses and public services can be kept open, with no disruptions
  • Less hazardous – the asbestos will not need to be disposed of this has potential dangers and exposures (and can also be a costly process)
  • Lower cost – encapsulation is a cost-effective method and wherever it does not compromise safety it will be seriously considered
  • Specific ACM qualities needed – it is likely, that the ACM is there for a reason. Factors such as fire resistance, and insulation may make it desirable to keep the ACM but encapsulate it

Encapsulation avoids the disruption and costs of offsite removal

Encapsulation avoids the disruption and costs of offsite removal

For some asbestos jobs, we may recommend encapsulation rather than removal – a range of factors will need to be considered within a formal risk assessment, with the emphasis being given to the safest approach.

Contacting Safeline Environmental

Why not contact Safeline Environmental to order or discuss asbestos encapsulation services. Contact methods are: