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?

Fantastic response! Much appreciated.

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, I have PM'd you regarding this. PH2