Serving Public Infrastructure with Environmental Precision
When the Whitman Department of Public Works (DPW) began planning much-needed improvements to one of their key operational buildings, they needed to confront an issue common in older municipal structures: the widespread presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).
From the roof to the walls and windows, asbestos was embedded in nearly every surface type—posing long-term health risks to employees and complicating future renovations. That’s where Banner Environmental Services stepped in, delivering a comprehensive asbestos abatement project to ensure the space could be rebuilt safely and sustainably.
A Complex Scope of Work with Full Compliance
Located in Whitman, Massachusetts, this municipal facility required abatement across multiple structural elements, including:
- 9000 sq. ft. of asbestos-containing silver roof sealer (all roofing layers and decking)
- 700 sq. ft. of exterior window caulking and glazing, removed intact from the building façade
- 2,500 sq. ft. of joint compound and sheetrock on the second floor walls and ceilings
- A transite panel located at a wood stove, removed as a complete component
Each of these ACMs required distinct techniques, containment strategies, and disposal procedures to comply with MassDEP, DLS, and federal regulations governing asbestos safety.
High-Stakes Roof Abatement
One of the most critical aspects of the project involved removing the roof sealer—a layered system comprising a silver roof coating, built-up roofing, and asbestos-contaminated decking. This phase of the project required:
- Full rooftop containment
- Use of HEPA-filtered negative air systems
- Fall protection for technicians
- Careful isolation of waste material during removal and transportation
Our team coordinated closely with the town to minimize disruptions, ensuring that nearby departments and public access were not affected by the work.
Interior and Exterior Asbestos Removal
On the second floor, our licensed technicians executed full containment abatement to remove asbestos-laden joint compound and drywall from walls and ceilings. This work was conducted in a sealed environment under negative pressure, which prevented the release of airborne fibers and ensured the safety of all personnel onsite.
Meanwhile, the exterior window glazing and caulking—a common yet hazardous source of friable asbestos—was methodically removed in whole units from the building’s façade. These materials were packaged and disposed of per hazardous waste protocols.
The transite panel, often used as heat shielding in older buildings, was removed in one intact piece to prevent breakage and dust release—demonstrating our commitment to low-impact, high-precision removal techniques.
Third-Party Clearance Ensures a Clean Bill of Health
As with all Banner abatement projects, the final word on safety doesn’t come from us—it comes from an independent third-party hygienist. In accordance with MADLS regulations, Banner coordinated and scheduled a third-party visual and air clearance, ensuring unbiased verification that the site was safe for re-entry and future construction.
This final step is just one more way Banner reinforces its commitment to transparency, compliance, and occupant protection.
A Safer Future for Municipal Operations
This project represents more than just code compliance—it’s a forward-looking investment in workplace safety for municipal employees and the public they serve. By safely removing all hazardous materials from the facility, the Whitman DPW now has a clean slate to modernize its operations and better serve the town.
At Banner Environmental Services, we’re proud to support public-sector clients like Whitman DPW with the same care and compliance we bring to every job site—no matter the size or scope.
Call the Experts in Municipal Asbestos Abatement
From town offices to DPW buildings, older municipal structures often contain hidden asbestos hazards. Don’t leave staff and future contractors at risk—trust Banner Environmental to deliver safe, thorough, and compliant abatement services from the roof to the floor.
Contact us today to schedule an estimate or learn more about our asbestos abatement solutions for public buildings.
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Whitman DPW Asbestos Removal Project Photos
