Abstract: Apparatus for safely and efficiently removing a layer of asbestos or like material from a generally planar or corrugated ceiling surface, I-beams or the like is disclosed and comprises a head assembly including an outer cover having a first open portion adapted to face the asbestos layer and a second open portion communicating with suction means through asbestos collecting means, an open ended inner wall member mounted within the outer cover to define an air passage between the inner wall member and the outer cover, and a rotary wire brush mounted within the inner wall member and adapted to engage and remove the asbestos layer from the surfaces to be stripped. The apparatus also includes adjusting means for moving the head assembly to an operative position wherein the rotary wire brush is in scraping contact with the asbestos layer with a small gap present between the peripheral edge of the first open portion of the outer cover and the surface to be stripped.