h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Ok, so its back to the asbestos issue. The specialist clean-up firm actually arrived today.
Now remember, we're talking about removing a panel that measures 2ft by 1ft (approx.). It took a total of 5 and 1/2 hrs to do this. They first had to 'construct' an airtight bubble using copious amounts of plastic sheeting and a very large, very noisy extractor fan to create a 'negative' airlock. They then had to put on a 'Haz-Chem' suit with full face visor/combined gas mask. They sprayed the non-painted side of the panel with a solution to prevent loose fibres coming adrift then they removed said panel. They used an industrial hoover to then hoover every nook and cranny. All the contents in the airing cupboard were bagged and sealed. I thought initially they were going to dispose of this, (its sheets, towels, some T shirts and ordinary shirts) but apparently they're going to have them cleaned at their premises and returned either tomorrow or Monday.
I will be asking for a meeting with the area housing manager asap as frankly if it takes them over 5 hours to remove 1 small panel with all the noise from the industrial fan and the fact I couldn't get out of the flat or get to the bathroom for this time then what the is it going to be like when they come to do the modernisation work? The place is riddled with asbestos, the guy doing the work today reckons it could take upto a month to clear the bathroom alone.
There is no way they can even contemplate doing these works with tenants in situ. Time, as I say, for a meeting with management.
So there we go, wonder how long I'll have to wait for a replacement panel above the airing cupboard door?

Have a good day folks, ttfn.

Luckily, I hope, my house was built long before asbestos was invented. But if I do find any your journal will have been an invaluable help.

I am at an age where nothing is going to kill me faster than old age so I will just not bother with it.

5½ hours? Good grief!

Deb

[Amy P]

They could have save a *bit* of time by coming already kitted out in the Haz-Chem suits.