Understanding asbestos
Asbestos is an unaffectedly occurring mineral known for its durability and resistance to heat. These properties made it a popular choice in building materials until its harmful effects became widely known.
Asbestos fibres, when inhaled, can cause severe health issues, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. This is why any work involving asbestos must be approached with care.
Identifying asbestos gutters
First, you need to determine if your gutters contain asbestos. Asbestos was commonly used in cement-based products, so if your dwelling was built or renovated between the 1940s and 1980s, your gutters may contain asbestos. Look for a fibrous texture or labels indicating asbestos content. It’s best to assume they contain asbestos and proceed cautiously if unsure.
Preparation & safety measures for cleaning asbestos gutters
Due to the unstable nature of asbestos fibres, cleaning asbestos gutters demands meticulous preparation and strict adherence to safety measures. Once a popular construction material, asbestos poses significant health threats if its fibres become airborne and inhaled. If you need to clean asbestos gutters, follow these guidelines to ensure you do so safely and effectively.
Assessment and planning
Before starting, assess the condition of your asbestos gutters. Hiring a professional asbestos removal service is advisable if they are severely damaged or deteriorating.
However, if the gutters are in relatively good condition, you can proceed with cleaning. Plan your work daily with minimal wind to reduce the gamble of asbestos fibres becoming airborne. Inform your neighbours about the work to ensure they stay indoors.
Gathering equipment
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): You will need a high-quality respirator mask (P100 or equivalent), disposable coveralls, gloves, safety goggles, and rubber boots.
- Cleaning Supplies: Use a low-pressure garden hose, a bucket, detergent, and a soft brush. Avoid using high-pressure washers or abrasive tools as they disturb the asbestos fibres.
- Disposal Bags: Use thick, sealable plastic bags labelled as hazardous waste to dispose of debris or contaminated materials.
Setting up the work area
Clear the area around the gutters to ensure easy access—Lay plastic sheeting beneath the gutters to catch any trash that may fall during cleaning. Wet the gutters thoroughly with a low-pressure hose before you start cleaning. This helps to minimise the release of asbestos fibres into the air.
Safety measures during cleaning
Personal protection
Wear your PPE at all times during the cleaning process. Ensure your respirator mask fits snugly and your coveralls are securely fastened to prevent asbestos fibres from contacting your skin.
Cleaning technique
Start by gently spraying the gutters with water to keep them wet throughout the cleaning process. Wet asbestos fibres are less likely to become airborne. Any further cleaning or handling should be undertaken with the help of gutter cleaning professionals to limit unnecessary handling or exposure to asbestos materials.
Handling debris
Any debris or materials removed from the gutters should be placed directly into your designated hazardous waste bags. Seal these bags securely to prevent any fibres from escaping. Afterwards, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to suck up the debris.
