Expert: Terry V Andreasen (Andy) - 4/21/2009

Question
QUESTION: i was reading some of the questions on safes and found 1 you answered on the 23/3/09 on the above safe. i also have a safe similar to the 1 in this question, what i would like to know is what is the fire proof compound that is found within this safe

ANSWER: Richard,

Generally safes from this time frame used mixtures from plaster of paris, to mortar/gypsum.  Asbestos was used by various manufactures, in various porportions over the years as they tested the fire resistant capabilities.  Some manufactures used sand, or small iron shot.  Some used air caveties to insulate the safe.  Different maufactures used different materials based on their testing.  I haven't seen any literature from Ratner safes on what material they used, and with out coreing the wall to get a sample, we probably won't know.
Are you asking the question with a specific end result in mind?  Similar safes I have examined, from the same time and area as the Ratners came from, have had different materials, but all were used with the same purpose in mind, to insulate the interior from exterior heat.

Unfortunately this type safe was mainly manufactured in the UK (England) and few were exported, so it is not a safe we see a lot of here in the USA.  If you have specific questions in mind, for a specific goal, I would be happy to research it for you.

Andy



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Andy
the reason i was asking is i have 1 in my office which i need to get out, the only way i think this is possible is to take the safe to bits as i believe this was installed through the roof by crane when the new extention was added, i need to know if it as asbestos in the lining before i do. reading up on these things i think taking to bits should not be too difficult unless you know of an easier way your thoughts would be most welcome.

regards

richard

Answer
Richard,

How large is your safe?  We move large safes on a regular basis (daily) and have never had to disassemble one to remove it.  We do have special equipment so that weight is not a problem for us.

I doubt that your safe has asbestos in it, but without testing you will have no way of knowing for sure.  If you do decide to disassemble it cover everything with plastic or painting sheets, and use necessary protective gear and safety equipment so that you don't injure yourself.  obtain a resporator that will allow you to breath and not ingest any dust.  There are other chemicles that are just as dangerous as asbestos (iron dust or rust for instance).

Before I can give you any further ideas, I'll need more info.  For instance the size and weight of the safe.  Type of floor you will be transiting, maximum door opening width, stairs, steps, elevators, etc. etc. etc.

Andy