We were contracted to perform regulated asbestos abatement at an abandoned commercial property in Northbridge, Massachusetts, where asbestos-containing materials (ACM) were discovered during pre-demolition inspections. Due to the condition of the structure and the way materials were commingled, the project required approval under a Massachusetts DEP Non-Traditional Work Practice (NTWP).
Our scope focused on safely removing asbestos-contaminated roofing materials, debris, and associated building components while maintaining strict environmental controls and regulatory compliance throughout the process.
Scope of Asbestos Abatement Work
Under the approved NTWP, our team performed asbestos abatement activities within a clearly defined exclusion zone, using methods designed to eliminate visible emissions and protect public health.
Key elements of this asbestos abatement scope included:
- Removal of asbestos-containing roofing materials and commingled construction debris
- Abatement of asphaltic expansion joints and associated ACM
- Bulk loading of asbestos-contaminated materials using approved live-loading procedures
- Continuous wetting of materials to prevent fiber release
- Removal of abandoned or deteriorated ACM-impacted components
- Proper packaging, labeling, manifesting, and transportation of asbestos waste to a licensed disposal facility
All asbestos waste was handled and disposed of in accordance with MassDEP, EPA NESHAP, and OSHA regulations.
Asbestos Removal Non-Traditional Work Practice & Site Controls
Because standard abatement methods could not be fully implemented, this project required a MassDEP-approved NTWP. Our approach included:
- Establishment of a regulated exclusion zone with asbestos warning signage
- Use of amended water misting throughout all disturbance activities
- Bulk loading of ACM into lined, sealed trailers
- Construction and use of a three-stage personnel decontamination unit
- Equipment decontamination pads with filtered rinsate collection
- Continuous perimeter air monitoring using high-volume pumps
- Immediate work stoppage protocols tied to air monitoring thresholds and site conditions
MassDEP was notified before and after abatement activities, with all required documentation and waste shipment records submitted per regulation.
Professional Asbestos Removal: Safety, Monitoring & Compliance
Safety and regulatory compliance were central to this project:
- Licensed asbestos supervisors and Massachusetts-certified asbestos workers on site
- OSHA-compliant personal air monitoring to confirm worker exposure remained below permissible limits
- Independent third-party project monitoring and air clearance oversight
- Daily visual inspections to confirm no visible debris remained
- Strict adherence to wind-speed limitations and weather-related work controls
This layered approach ensured both worker safety and environmental protection throughout the duration of the project.
Project Outcome
The asbestos abatement work at this abandoned Northbridge commercial property was completed safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with regulatory requirements. All asbestos-contaminated materials were successfully removed, and the site was left ready for the next phase of redevelopment or demolition activities.
Projects like this highlight the importance of experience, planning, and regulatory expertise—especially when non-traditional abatement methods are required.
Contact us online or call 866-934-2374 if you need professional asbestos abatement services.