
The client identified the presence of AIB panels along the upper half of several perimeter walls. While the boards were largely intact, their location high up on the walls made them vulnerable to vibration, wear, and potential impact from future maintenance work.
Rather than opt for full removal, which can be more disruptive and costly in an active industrial environment, the client wanted a solution that would secure the panels in place and eliminate any risk of fibre release. Encapsulation offered the ideal balance between safety, compliance, and practicality.
Encapsulation involves sealing asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) beneath a protective coating, locking in any fibres and preventing them from becoming airborne. When applied correctly, it creates a durable, long-lasting barrier that allows the ACMs to remain in situ safely.
After an initial site visit and risk assessment, our team developed a full plan to complete the encapsulation safely and efficiently. The factory layout meant that many of the affected panels were positioned several metres above ground level, requiring mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) to access them.
Before any painting could begin, we carried out a comprehensive cleaning of the area using high-efficiency vacuum systems (H-Vacs) designed specifically for asbestos environments. This step was essential to remove any surface dust or debris and to prepare the panels for encapsulation.
Once the surfaces were clean and clear, we began applying ET-150, a specialist asbestos encapsulation coating. ET-150 is formulated to bind and seal asbestos fibres, forming a flexible, impact-resistant layer that prevents deterioration over time.
To ensure full and even coverage across the large wall surfaces, our team used industrial-grade paint sprayers. This method not only delivered a consistent finish but also reduced application time compared to manual brushing or rolling, minimising downtime for the client.
Safeguard your domestic property and family with asbestos removal from our specialised team.
Discover whether your property is home to dangerous asbestos with Dact.
Safely dispose of asbestos from your home with our professional service.
Asbestos surveys are essential to meet legal obligations and ensure the safety of your building and its occupants.
Working at height in an active industrial setting comes with specific challenges. The use of MEWPs allowed us to access every section safely, but strict control measures had to be in place throughout the process. Our trained operatives worked in pairs, wearing full PPE including RPE, and followed a detailed method statement and risk assessment approved before starting work.
The condition of AIB panels can vary, so our technicians adapted their approach as needed, ensuring that any joints or edges were properly sealed with additional coating to provide a continuous, uninterrupted barrier.
The encapsulation project was completed on schedule and as planned. Once the ET-150 coating had fully cured, the panels were securely sealed, leaving a smooth and durable finish that significantly reduced the risk of future fibre release.
Our client was extremely satisfied with the result, both in terms of safety improvement and the professional finish achieved. The encapsulated surfaces also offered a brighter and cleaner appearance to the upper walls of the factory, enhancing the overall environment for workers.
This project is a great example of how encapsulation can be a safe and cost-effective solution for managing asbestos in industrial buildings. By opting for this approach, the client was able to maintain full compliance with UK asbestos regulations while avoiding unnecessary disruption and expense.
All asbestos-related work carried out by DACT Contractors is done under strict compliance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
Every member of our team involved in this project was fully trained and competent in asbestos awareness, encapsulation techniques, and working at height. The ET-150 product we used is specifically designed and tested for use on asbestos-containing materials, forming a strong, flexible membrane that prevents fibre release and resists environmental wear.
At DACT Contractors, we provide safe, compliant, and fully certified asbestos solutions for clients across Cheshire and the wider North West. Whether you need full removal, encapsulation, or asbestos management advice, our experienced team can help assess your site and recommend the safest, most practical approach.
If you suspect asbestos in your property, it’s important not to disturb it. Contact our team for professional testing, surveys, and tailored solutions to keep your site safe and compliant.
Visit our Asbestos Removal in Cheshire service page to learn more about how we support businesses in the region, or get in touch today for a free, no-obligation quote.
You can call us on 01744 353640 or email sales@dactcontractors.com.