90-04: Removal of Asbestos Paper Fill From Large Industrial Cooling Towers

A total of 81 counterflow fan cells at the Paducah Plant contain asbestos paper fill. Because of environmental and health considerations and the deteriorated condition of the fill itself, it was determined that we should remove and replace this fill. This document deals with an approved method of removing asbestos paper fill. Included will be a discussion of the proper safety equipment and clothing, sampling techniques, plasticizing the entire tower, obtaining negative air through High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, removal of the asbestos, and moving it to landfill. Final clean up, encapsulation of any remaining fibers, and clearance sampling will also be discussed.