Controlling Exposure to Asbestos
Controlling exposure to asbestos in the workplace is essential to protect workers' health and prevent the inhalation of asbestos fibers.
The Asbestos Standard
Employers must comply with OSHA's Asbestos Standards 29 CFR 1910.1001 and 29 CFR 1926.1101 and follow other local, state, and national regulations and guidelines specific to asbestos control and abatement.
Controlling Exposure
Identification and Assessment: Prior to the start of a project or demolition, conduct an asbestos survey to identify the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Determine the condition, location, and accessibility of ACMs. Assess the potential for asbestos fiber release during normal operations or in case of disturbance.
Engineering Controls: Use engineering controls to minimize asbestos fiber release.
- Enclose and encapsulate ACMs to prevent fiber release.
- Local exhaust ventilation to capture and remove fibers.
- Dust collection systems and suppression techniques (wet methods).
Work Practices: Develop and implement safe work practices for tasks involving ACMs.
- Prohibit dry sweeping, dry brushing, or other activities that generate airborne fibers.
- Use appropriate work methods and tools to minimize disturbance of ACMs.
- Use proper waste handling and disposal procedures for asbestos-contaminated materials.
- Decontaminate procedures for workers and equipment after working with ACMs.
- Maintain and repair tools and equipment to prevent damage or deterioration.
Below are prohibited engineering and work practice controls for all work that disturbs asbestos or presumed ACMs, regardless of measured exposure levels or the results of initial exposure assessments.
- Do not use high-speed abrasive disc saws unless they are equipped with a point-of-cut ventilator or enclosed with HEPA-filtered exhaust air.
- Do not use compressed air to remove asbestos or asbestos-containing materials unless the compressed air is used with an enclosed ventilation system.
- Do not dry sweep, shovel, or conduct any other dry cleanup of dust and debris.
- Do not rotate employees to reduce exposure.
- Do not allow the accumulation of friable asbestos materials or asbestos containing waste.
- Do not dispose materials at an unauthorized site.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide and require the use the following PPE for workers exposed to ACMs.
- Respiratory protection (e.g., high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters).
- Protective clothing (e.g., coveralls) and disposable gloves.
- Eye protection, including safety goggles or face shields.
Training and Information: Train workers on the hazards of ACM exposure, control measures, and safe work practices. Inform workers about the location and condition of ACMs in the workplace. Ensure workers understand the proper use, maintenance, and limitations of PPE.
Monitoring and Record-Keeping: Conduct regular air monitoring to assess asbestos fiber levels in the workplace. Keep records of monitoring results, employee training, and any actions taken to control asbestos exposure. Review and update control measures based on monitoring results and regulatory requirements.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
9-5. Which engineering control will help prevent asbestos fiber release?
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