Gaskets and rope seals are generally regarded as friable. Talk to a professional with asbestos knowledge and experience if you have any doubts.
Gaskets reinforced with asbestos are often found in old plant equipment – usually between the flanges of pipes – that has been subject to high pressures and/or temperatures. Asbestos rope was often utilised for sealing hatches on lagging pipes and valves.
Ensure equipment and plant and has been made safe – properly shutdown the equipment, empty the pipework and isolate the electrical supply.
Carefully take apart the equipment and use plastic sheeting to protect other components.
Using a fine water mist, dampen the asbestos as it becomes accessible.
Using a scraper, gently remove the gasket or rope seal and bin it in a waste container positioned directly beside/beneath the work area. Be sure to scrape away any residue and keep the area damp.
While scraping, it helps to also use an industrial vacuum cleaner fitted with a HEPA filter.