The KCS Group was directly appointed by Guy’s NHS Trust to carry out asbestos removal works on Lift Shaft E. A previous asbestos survey indicated the presence of Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB) within the lift shaft, specifically above the head of the access doors, though no other significant contamination was identified.
Project Approach
Utilising the survey findings, Kershaw Contracting Services developed a comprehensive Method Statement with a supporting Risk Assessment. These documents highlighted the site-specific constraints and safe working practices, especially regarding working at heights and within the confined space of a lift shaft with service runs. The lift was taken out of commission and "locked off" for the duration of the project, eliminating the risk of unauthorised access.
The project was completed in two phases:
Removal of AIB Header to Lower Ground Floor, including Pit Clean.
Removal of AIB Header from Ground to 10th Floor.
To access the lift shaft, a fixed scaffold was erected by an approved asbestos-licensed scaffolding subcontractor. The lift shaft's internal walls formed the enclosure and all doorways and access points were sealed with polythene. Airlocks were installed appropriately to provide safe access for each phase of the works.
Asbestos Removal Process
The removal was performed using controlled techniques to suppress fibre release at the source, utilising handheld pumps with fibre suppressant. Hand tools were used to remove the AIB boards and all walls, ledges, lift doors and related areas were thoroughly cleaned. The lift plant was cleaned as far as reasonably practicable, though no attempt was made to dismantle any plant equipment.
All waste was carefully bagged, and the works were carried out in strict compliance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, the Approved Code of Practice, and HSG 247 guidelines.
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