Asbestos Abatement Technician (Asbestos Abatement Tech)
Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including HealthDescription
Perform site preparation, containment, removal, and cleanup of asbestos-containing materials in buildings and industrial settings. Operate HEPA and negative-air equipment, collect samples, manage regulated waste, and document compliance with OSHA, EPA, and state rules under the direction of a supervisor or abatement contractor.
- • Prepare regulated work areas by installing critical barriers, negative-pressure containments, and warning signage.
- • Assemble and maintain worker and equipment decontamination units with proper hygiene supplies.
- • Don, inspect, and maintain PPE, including respirators; perform fit checks and follow respiratory protection plans.
- • Mix and apply amended water or encapsulants; use wet methods to suppress fiber release.
- • Coordinate access with occupants and facility staff to minimize disruptions and ensure safety.
- • Comply with OSHA, EPA NESHAP, AHERA, and state rules; participate in medical surveillance and fit testing.
- • Remove asbestos-containing materials from pipes, ducts, surfacing, and flooring using glove bags, hand tools, and approved methods.
- • Operate, monitor, and maintain HEPA vacuums and negative air machines; change filters per procedures.
- • Calibrate air pumps and collect background, area, and personal air samples as directed; maintain chain-of-custody.
- • Label, document, and submit bulk material samples to accredited laboratories when required.
- • Log pressure differentials, air changes per hour, and equipment performance throughout abatement.
- • Package, label, and stage asbestos waste in leak-tight containers; complete waste manifests and coordinate disposal.
- • Maintain daily logs, exposure records, equipment checklists, and photo documentation.
- • Perform thorough HEPA vacuuming and wet wiping; support final cleaning and clearance activities.
- • Decontaminate tools, equipment, and work areas; manage PPE disposal and laundering per policy.
- • Read and follow abatement specifications, drawings, safety data sheets, and work plans; clarify requirements with supervisors.
- • Protect building systems and finishes; isolate utilities and establish safe power and lighting in work areas.
- • Conduct site walkthroughs to identify access, egress, and potential hazards; set up fire and emergency plans.
- • Report damaged containments, releases, or unexpected ACM; initiate stop-work and corrective actions.
- • Assist in training and directing laborers or helpers on safe abatement practices.
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
