The Asbestos Section of the Social Security Administration is recommending the use of the PIE for the removal of asbestos containing-ceiling tile (ACM) in order to facilitate the much needed cable pulls in the Security West Low Rise Building. The PIE is constructed of sturdy sheet metal and consists of an enclosed chamber with an attached hood and shroud extendible to ceiling height, over desks, and filing cabinets. The chamber sits on a wheeled platform which-can be moved easily.

The PIE prevents asbestos contamination of the work place because it maintains a continuous-inward airflow through the hood opening. This negative air pressure is produced by a MICROTRAP blower which continuously draws the air inside the PIE through a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. In addition the, PIE contains a portable shower for decontamination of the units interior and worker prior to his egress from the unit.

During the operation of this device, a worker wearing protective clothing and respirator works inside the enclosed chamber to remove and bag the asbestos-containing ceiling tiles. The worker then passes the bagged material through a trap door into a large bag that is attached to and sealed against the chamber. When the work is completed, the worker washes and cleans the interior of the chamber and himself before leaving the enclosure.

The Social Security administration has used the enclosure on several different occasions, and air monitoring during the projects indicates that the unit is operating as designed. Both the Maryland Department of the Environment and the Baltimore County Department of Environment Protection and Management have given us variances from the typical immobile negative pressure enclosure constructed with polyethylene covered walls and containing a 3 stage decontamination facility.

The PIE, because of its mobility, sturdy construction, and ease of decontamination enables cabling to be performed more quickly and less expensively than traditional abatement procedures.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Debra Gingell of my staff on 410-965-8300, or myself on 410-966-9368

Sincerely,