Paper-Backed Vinyl Removal and Floor Grinding at Raetihi School

PRO Environmental Services Ltd was engaged to remove asbestos-containing paper-backed vinyl and contaminated carpet at Raetihi School. The project involved working across multiple classrooms and a storage room within the school. Due to the high-risk environment of a primary school, careful planning and execution were essential to ensure safety and minimal disruption.

Challenges

Executing asbestos removal works in an active educational environment required precise coordination, rigorous health and safety measures, and close communication with the site’s PCBU. Maintaining safe air quality and minimising exposure to nearby areas were key concerns throughout the project.

Our Approach

Upon arrival, the PROES team immediately isolated the work area with clear signage and secure barriers to prevent access by staff, students, and other contractors.

We constructed a custom enclosure using timber framing to provide a stable structure during the works. A speed dock was connected directly to the enclosure to ensure a safe, controlled environment with adequate airflow for our Negative Pressure Unit (NPU).

Before starting removal, an independent licensed assessor inspected and smoke-tested the enclosure to verify its integrity. Air monitoring was carried out at regular intervals and after each waste run to provide ongoing assurance to the school and its stakeholders.

Daily site meetings and hazard assessments were conducted, along with pre-start checks on all equipment. Electrical tools and devices were tested and tagged by trained personnel before being used. A three-stage wet decontamination unit was in place and used consistently by our removalists after each shift.

To support the floor grinding stage, we arranged for an additional power supply in each room. This ensured uninterrupted operation of our floor grinders and H-class vacuums without affecting the school’s main power supply. A local electrician provided on-call support throughout the project, offering technical expertise and ensuring compliance with electrical safety protocols.