Abstract: A device for safely and economically removing asbestos and like materials from ceiling surfaces comprises an extensible hoist which is motorized for travel along a floor beneath the ceiling to be stripped. The hoist includes an open-topped hopper which is adapted to be moved to a position adjacent the ceiling. A pair of motor driven auger cutters are positioned on the top of the hopper adapted to cuttingly engage the asbestos and deposit it within the hopper. The hopper has a discharge opening at the bottom which is connected to a closed collection drum via a conduit mounted beneath the hopper for storing the stripped asbestos material therein. Spring biasing means are associated with a hopper mounting frame to provide constant contact between the augers and the ceiling.