JAUE2022-122: Problems and Improvement Measures in the Dismantling and Removing of Asbestos Containing Building Materials

Abstract

Asbestos is highly regarded for certain properties, such as thermal insulation, sound absorption, and electrical insulation. It is widely used throughout the world, especially as a building material, since it is inexpensive and easily obtained in nature. However, asbestos harms human health. Long-term asbestos exposure may cause serious illnesses, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, asbestosis, and even death. Therefore, asbestos surveys on buildings and the dismantling and removal of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) are expected to increase in the future. In this study, we visited the asbestos dismantling and removal work site in person to investigate the potential problems there. Several problems arose, with the main cause being the absence of a supervisory officer for asbestos dismantling. Accordingly, we propose the strengthening of supervisory selection criteria as an improvement plan. Further analyses and investigations of the overall problems and recommendations regarding improvement measures to address the relevant regulations will contribute to the safe dismantling and removal of ACM in the future.