A HEPA-qualified coating removal system, coating removal tool, and method is disclosed. The HEPA-qualified coating removal system comprises a HEPA-vacuum coupled to a coating removal tool via a vacuum line. A method of using the HEPA-qualified coating removal system includes, but is not limited to, the steps of the user putting on appropriate protective equipment, connecting the vacuum line of the HEPA-vacuum to an outlet of the coating removal tool, activating the HEPA-vacuum, using scraping motion of coating removal tool to strip a surface and the resulting loose debris being removed by suction force from the environment, deactivating the HEPA-vacuum, and disposing of the debris collected in the HEPA vacuum.