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Method Statement 3.9.1 - Pipe Bursting Asbestos Cement Pipes

Document Information

Field Value
Document Reference MS 3.9.1
Issue Number 2
Issue Date 1 June 2026
Next Review 1 June 2027
Prepared By Sean Ashton
Approved By Aaron Mason, Director
Task No Task PPE to be worn Plant required Reference is made to the Team Pack risk assessment
3.9.1. Pipe Bursting Asbestos Cement Pipes As defined by on-site risk assessment. Works vehicle and hand tools. Bursting equipment. Dust suppression kit. N/A

Hazards

  • Manual Handling
  • Stored Energy in the Pipe
  • Defective Plant and Equipment
  • Towing Techniques
  • Incorrect Loading
  • Insufficient Space

Environmental Impacts

  • Noise
  • Dust
  • Light From Night working

Customer Impacts

  • Noise
  • Dust
  • Access

Training Required

As Per specific contract training matrix

Additional Plant and Equipment

  • Winch/Tractor Winch
  • Pipe Bursting/Slip Lining Rig
  • Mechanical Excavator

Permits Required

As Per specific contract specifications and Client requirements.

COSHH Assessment Required

  • 2 Stroke Oil
  • Diesel/Petrol
  • Line Marker Spray
  • Lubricating Spray

Sequence of Operations and Control Methods

Sequence of Operations and Control Methods: (detail proposed / agreed methods, and safe systems of work)

  • The pipe bursting installation method will generally remain the same as stated in the Generic Method Statement for Pipe Bursting (AA / 018 / 019) with additional consideration given to the following:

  • Exposed pipe work will be dampened with water.

  • A vessel containing water is to be maintained on site and used during any cutting of asbestos material.

  • Prior to cutting asbestos the section of pipe to be cut and removed must be adequately doused. Water dousing will remain continuous unless water begins to expel from the main during cutting.

  • Mechanical saws/cutting tools are not permitted during cutting of asbestos pipe; only sharp hand saws will be permitted. A slow cutting technique is to be adopted to minimise dust generation.

  • Under no circumstances will hammers or equivalent tools be used to smash or break asbestos pipe.

  • Where the pipe itself is not excavated, but the new pipe is pushed in and pulled through the old pipe from two excavated access points. This may result in some cracking or breaking, but the pipe fragments are contained by the soils and left in the ground and may be left in situ.

  • Any excavated sections or broken pieces of pipe that are not fully contained shall be removed from the site and consigned in accordance with Hazardous Waste Regulations.

  • The client shall be informed of the condition and location of asbestos cement pipes that have been left in ground.

  • All asbestos pipes including any encountered repair collars shall be excavated and removed. Excavated asbestos will be double wrapped, sealed securely, labelled "asbestos" and placed within a confined area/skip until removal.

  • After works have been completed, operative's disposable overalls shall be peeled off inside out and placed in the asbestos waste bags along with the gloves.

  • All asbestos waste including protective clothing will be transported to a suitably licensed tip by a registered carrier with all necessary hazardous waste transfer documentation completed.

  • All tools shall be washed down, paying particular attention to the toothed area of hand saws, bursting rods and bursting head to avoid asbestos contamination during pipe bursting operations.