Class 4 Pulsed Laser-Based Type 1 Lead Abatement – 6’’ Dia HP Water Line Replacement

Project Overview:
A general contractor was awarded a project to remove and replace 200 feet of 6” HP water line within an operating industrial facility. Occupational testing identified a lead-based coating on the existing line, triggering Type 1 lead abatement requirements prior to removal.
Challenge:
Restricted access and operating plant conditions made traditional abatement methods impractical. Conventional scaffolding and full containment would have significantly increased project cost, duration, and safety risk, while disrupting plant operations.
Solution:
The contractor engaged Pure Laser Prep to provide a more efficient, compliant alternative. Utilizing a Class 4 pulsed laser system, trained laser technicians performed localized lead coating removal from an existing mezzanine level—eliminating the need for scaffolding and large-scale containment.
The work area was controlled using drop sheets, activated carbon fume extraction, and HEPA filtration to ensure full compliance with Type 1 abatement protocols. After each section was treated, surfaces were HEPA vacuum-cleaned to capture residual particles.
Results:
Completed 13 localized abatement areas safely and on schedule
Achieved full compliance with Type 1 lead removal requirements
Avoided plant interruptions and access delays
Reduced overall abatement and scaffolding costs
Delivered precise, contamination-free surface preparation ready for pipe replacement