Asbestos Decontamination Units - Essential Tools for Safe Remediation
Asbestos decontamination units (DCUs) are critical components in the safe removal and handling of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).
We have a modern fleet of 18 mobile units that provide a controlled environment allowing workers to both decontaminate themselves and their respiratory protective equipment on a shift-by-shift basis.
The DCU can either be directly coupled to the work area (preferred) or workers undertake preliminary decontamination at the work site then transit in clean footwear and overalls to the DCU placed as close by as practicable. Either method is carefully designed to prevent the spread of hazardous fibres.
Purpose and Function
The primary function of a DCU is to act as a barrier between the contaminated and clean zones and ensures that asbestos fibres do not escape into the wider environment during remediation projects.
Our units consist of three main compartments:
Dirty Area: The entry point from the asbestos work zone where contaminated clothing and equipment are removed.
Shower Area: Equipped with hot and cold water, this section allows operatives to thoroughly wash away asbestos fibres.
Clean Area: The final section where workers dry off and change into clean clothing before exiting the unit.
We also provide our own welfare facilities within the unit which are separated from the 3 compartments above.
Design and Compliance
Our own 18 DCUs are designed to meet strict health and safety regulations, including those set by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in the UK.
They are trailer-mounted for mobility and include negative pressure systems, HEPA filtration, and a wastewater filtration system to ensure full containment of asbestos fibres.
They are tested at regular intervals to confirm gas and electrical safety as well as proper functioning of the asbestos filtration system. The dirty and shower areas are also independently visually inspected air tested at the end of each contract to ensure they are safe to leave site and be used by the next team.
Where a towable unit cannot be used for practicable reasons, we also own modular systems that can be built and later dismantled in agreed locations.
Importance in Asbestos Removal
Using a properly maintained decontamination unit is a legal requirement for licensed asbestos removal work.
It protects workers, the public, and the environment from exposure to asbestos, which can cause serious health conditions such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer.
Conclusion
Asbestos decontamination units are indispensable in ensuring the safety and compliance of asbestos remediation projects.
By providing a secure and hygienic transition between contaminated and clean areas, they play a vital role in maintaining high standards of occupational health and environmental protection.
For over three decades, we have been at the forefront of environmental safety and compliance across the UK.
Established in 1988, we’ve built a reputation for delivering trusted, professional, and sustainable solutions that make workplaces and buildings safer for everyone.
From asbestos management and hazardous waste removal to environmental consultancy and compliance support, our mission is simple — to protect people, property, and the planet.
With a dedicated team of experts and a commitment to innovation, we help organisations meet the highest safety and environmental standards while reducing risk and ensuring full regulatory compliance.
Here at Envirocall, safety isn’t just a service — it’s our legacy.
Our new logo and livery on our transport has arrived, plus the arrival of our 18th Asbestos Decontamination Unit.
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Envirocall Goes Paperless with reMarkable Tablet Technology
Envirocall Limited, a leading UK specialist in asbestos removal and management, has taken a bold step toward sustainability by going completely paperless in its client-facing operations.
The company, headquartered at Elmdon House in Coleshill, has invested in the cutting-edge reMarkable tablet system to streamline its workflow and reduce environmental impact.
The adoption of the reMarkable tablet allows Envirocall’s team to take notes, access and present survey reports, and manage all essential documentation digitally—eliminating the need for paper-based processes during client engagements.
This move not only enhances operational efficiency but also aligns with the company’s broader commitment to environmental responsibility.
Mick Tynan, Managing Director of Envirocall, commented: “Since we launched our onsite reMarkable paperless system, we’ve saved huge amounts of time by having everything in one place.
“More importantly, we’ve helped the planet by eliminating the need to purchase paper or print cartridges.
“Our team has become significantly more productive thanks to the time savings this system provides.”
This initiative follows Envirocall’s recent investment in electric vehicles for its fleet, reinforcing its dedication to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainable practices across all areas of its business.
A greener future, going paperless is part of Envirocall’s ongoing strategy to embrace green technologies and reduce waste.
By integrating digital tools like the reMarkable tablet, the company continues to lead by example in the environmental services sector.
Photo shows Paul Shakespeare (Contracts Manager Envirocall - left) Mick Tynan (Managing Director of Envirocall Limited) and Callum Shepherd (Contracts Manager Envirocall - right)