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Ron Hunter  
#1 Posted : 15 June 2011 15:19:17(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Ron Hunter

Anyone out there willing to share an approved (Water Board and/or HSE) method for repair/joining underground asbestos cement waterpipe?

I'm hearing of people ( I won't say who's people) using stihl saws with water suppression to prepare for a splicing repair, which on the face of it seems fine, but is essentially contrary to the ethos of not attacking ACMs with power tools?
I can see a practical and pragmatic solution here which is very similar to the HSE's preferred approach to cutting silica (slabs etc.), adding in a personal "wash-down" at the end of the task, excellent hygiene observance and the like.
Any slurry containing asbestos fibres is going to remain in the hole in the ground and be back-filled.

I guess I'm looking for some authorative moral support here?
DNW  
#2 Posted : 15 June 2011 15:46:09(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
DNW

http://www.scottishwater...20AND%20ARRANGEMENTS.PDF

look at the above link ron....I've had a quick look and though it is dated 2004 I don't think it would need much tweaking.
Ron Hunter  
#3 Posted : 15 June 2011 15:57:38(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Ron Hunter

Fantastic response! Much appreciated.
PH2  
#4 Posted : 15 June 2011 17:13:44(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
PH2

Ron,
agree with document from Scottish Water. It is almost identical to that published by Northern Ireland Water. Power saws (even with water suppression) are not recommended, as asbestos fibres can quickly separate from water droplets at high speed / when airborne. Using hand saws is the most common method of cutting these types of pipe (Combined with low pressure pipe wetting).

Further guidance on working with asbestos cement is available in HSG 189/2 (free download).

Additionally, anyone working on potable water mains (including repairs) should hold the Water Hygiene Passport, issued by the Energy and Utilities Scheme Register (www.eusr.co.uk).

PH2
bob youel  
#5 Posted : 16 June 2011 09:28:01(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
bob youel

Also note that environmental law [with its environmental enforcers and not the HSE] comes in here as you are leaving contaminates and lechate behind you and you could be accused of deliberate contamination

I would recommend [without a full description of the job to hand] that wherever it is practicable the asbestos is totally removed or at best worked around e.g. Sleeved ---- It can be done but thought needs to be present plus the willingness to do things properly noting that both areas cost money. Additionally getting competent contractors is a pain
Ron Hunter  
#6 Posted : 16 June 2011 11:24:39(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Ron Hunter

HSG189/2 appears to have been withdrawn.
PH2  
#7 Posted : 16 June 2011 15:53:23(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
PH2

Ron,

I have PM'd you regarding this.

PH2
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