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PREFACE
This manual was developed to provide guidance for those who are about to
undertake an asbestos abatement project. The procedures and practices detailed in
these pages incorporated current technology at the time of publishing. The reader
should be reminded that as technology evolves, so do the methods for conducting
asbestos abatement. For this reason, the word "interim" was added to the title,
emphasizing the need for the reader to obtain the most up-to-date information
available.
Many of the recommended procedures discussed in this document go beyond the
minimum requirements of the various regulations which have been promulgated by
OSHA and EPA. Accordingly, many of the recommended practices are not
mandatory requirements. Texts of the OSHA asbestos regulation (29 CFR
1910.1001) and EPA's National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (40
CFR 61, subpart M) are included in this manual as Appendices A and B,
respectively. The reader should refer to these regulations to determine federal
requirements for asbestos abatement projects. The reader should also be aware
that often there exist additional procedures which may be substituted for those
discussed here. Further, the practices recommended may not be appropriate for
every project.
This manual was prepared by professionals in the field of asbestos abatement and
control. Throughout its preparation and upon completion, the manuscript was
subjected to peer review in government, academic and industry circles.
The technical expertise and common sense provided by the contractor are major
components of a successful abatement project. We encourage the reader to
improve further upon the techniques provided in this manual as he gains additional
knowledge through field practice. This will ensure that the abatement industry
continues to evolve to improve asbestos abatement work practices.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
It would not be possible to acknowledge all the individuals from their respective
disciplines who made this publication possible. We are extremely grateful to those
people involved in asbestos abatement who generously shared their knowledge,
expertise, and experience with the staff of the Georgia Tech Research Institute.
Individually, we would like to express our gratitude to Mr. Stephen Schanamann of
the EPA's Asbestos Action Program. Through his efforts as Project Officer, this
manual was developed at an accelerated pace while maintaining consistent quality
through the peer review process. The recognition for development of the manual
must go to the Asbestos Programs Group of Georgia Tech's Environmental, Health,
and Safety Division. Special thanks to Eva Clay, Mark Demyanek, William Spain,
and Bill Ewing for their efforts in preparing this document. We wish also to thank
Mike Lowish for development of the chapter concerning safety and health
considerations, other than asbestos; and Laurie Baker for her efforts in preparation
of the glossary. We are greatly indebted to Mr. Alfred B. Adams, III of the law
firm Greene, Buckley, DeRieux and Jones for writing the section on legal and
insurance considerations. We also wish to thank Ms. Susan Vogt, Director of the
Asbestos Action Program, USEPA, for her participation and support of this project.
Due to the need to quickly release this document, it became necessary to have two
peer review groups. The working peer review group is acknowledged for their
unselfish devotion of time to this project. As each section was written, they were
asked (usually with only a week) to provide their expertise and assistance through
thoughtful study of the material. This group included the following individuals to
whom we are grateful.
Joseph Breen, Chief, Field Studies Branch, Exposure Evaluation Division,
Office of Toxic Substances, USEPA
Elizabeth Dutrow, Field Studies Branch, Exposure Evaluation Division, USEPA
Paul Heffernan, Asbestos Coordinator, USEPA, Region I
James Littell, Asbestos Coordinator, USEPA, Region IV
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David Mayer, Chief, Asbestos Technical Assistance Staff, Asbestos Action
Program, USEPA
Stephen Schanamann, Project Officer, Asbestos Action Program, USEPA
Joseph Schirmer, Division of Epidemiology, New Jersey Department of Health
We wish to also acknowledge the efforts of the final peer review group who were
given only two weeks to complete their task. Special recognition goes to those
individuals with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
whose efforts greatly improved the final document. The final peer review group
included the following individuals.
John Biechman, Executive Director, Building Owners and Managers
Association
Steven Biegel, National Institute of Building Sciences
James C. Carter, Division of Physical Sciences and Engineering, NIOSH
Bruce A. Hollett, Division of Physical Sciences and Engineering, NIOSH
Stewart M. Huey, Executive Director, National Asbestos Council
James H. Jones, Division of Physical Sciences and Engineering, NIOSH
Robert Lederer, Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industries-International
John Martonik, Health Standards Directorate, Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA)
Kenneth M. Wallingford, Division of Surveillance, Hazard Evaluation and Field
Studies, NIOSH
Ralph Zumwalde, Division of Standards Development and Technology Transfer,
NIOSH
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION
I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.
VII.
VIII.
IX.
X.
XI.
XII.
XIII.
XIV.
XV.
XVI.
XVII.
XVIII.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
TITLE
COURSE OVERVIEW, SELF-GRADED PRE-COURSE QUIZ AND
COMMENTS ON POST-COURSE EXAM
BACKGROUND INFORMATION CONCERNING ASBESTOS
ABATEMENT
HEALTH EFFECTS OF ASBESTOS EXPOSURE
LEGAL AND INSURANCE CONSIDERATIONS
CONTRACT SPECIFICATIONS
PRE-WORK ACTIVITIES AND CONSIDERATIONS
ESTABLISHING A MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM
PROTECTING THE WORKER: RESPIRATORS AND PROTECTIVE
CLOTHING
ESTABLISHING A TYPE C, SUPPLIED-AIR SYSTEM
PREPARING THE WORK AREA AND ESTABLISHING THE
DECONTAMINATION UNIT
CONFINING AND MINIMIZING AIRBORNE FIBERS
SAFETY AND HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS (OTHER THAN
ASBESTOS)
SAMPLING AND ANALYTICAL METHODOLOGY PERTAINING
TO ASBESTOS
CLEANING UP THE WORK AREA
WASTE DISPOSAL REQUIREMENTS
LOCKDOWN AND SPRAYBACK PROCEDURES
GLOVEBAG TECHNIQUE FOR PIPE LAGGING REMOVAL
NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN ASBESTOS ABATEMENT TECHNOLOGY
APPENDICES
Occupational Safety and Health Administration Asbestos Standard
Environmental Protection Agency NESHAP Standard for Asbestos
NIOSH Employers Respiratory Protection Training Guide
NIOSH Employees Respiratory Protection Training Guide
Glossary of Asbestos Terms
PAGE
1
10
11
19
40
103
141
153
205
222
240
280
313
336
353
366
376
388
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COURSE OVERVIEW
SELF-GRADED PRE-COURSE QUIZ
COMMENTS ON POST-COURSE EXAMINATION
Objective: Provide a brief discussion of the topics that will be covered and how
these topics are integral components of an asbestos abatement
project; acquaint participants with the types of questions on the post-
course exam.
Learning Tasks: Information in this section should enable participants to:
tc&r' Become familiar with the contents of the notebook
Learn what topics will be covered and in what sequence
Become aware of the various facets of an asbestos abatement
project
Be introduced to a multidisciplinary approach to asbestos
abatement
Perform a self-evaluation of their knowledge concerning the
subject via a pre-course quiz
Become familiar with the format and contents of the post-course
exam
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This overview and the accompanying flow diagram
(The Asbestos Abatement Flowchart) demonstrate
how different parts of the course fit together. And,
since contractors are often consulted as asbestos
specialists, it will also assist them in addressing the
asbestos abatement issue with the scientific com-
munity and general public.
The public is often confused about the source of
asbestos. It is a mineral rock mined from the earth
in much the same ways as other minerals, such as
iron, lead, and copper. However, instead of crushing
up into dust particles, it divides into millions of fine
fibers. These fibers come in three common
varieties: chrysotile, amosite, and crocidolite. All
three varieties exhibit substantial resistance to heat
and chemicals, and thus have been used for a variety
of commercial and industrial purposes. In fact,
asbestos has been used in more than 3,000 products.
The asbestos industry started during the 1870s when
the first commercial chrysotile mine opened in
Quebec, Canada. The crocidolite variety was first
mined in South Africa during the 1890s. Amosite
also comes from Africa, but its mining did not begin
until 1916.
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Asbestos was used some as insulation during the
period 1870-1900, but its use became more common
on steam pipes and boilers of ships after 1900. Until
the early 1940s, most asbestos-containing
insulations in the United States contained chrysotile
from Canada. The 1940s marked significant changes
in the American use of asbestos. Amosite became
widely used in American ships and ship yards during
WWII.
The use of asbestos then started expanding to
include acoustical and decorative purposes,
especially in buildings. After WWII ended and
military demand for asbestos declined, sprayed
asbestos fireproofing materials were used
extensively in buildings. Estimates indicate that
more than half of the large multi-story buildings
constructed during the 1950-1970 period contain
some form of sprayed asbestos-containing materials.
These uses will be discussed and shown in the next
section covering "Background Information to
Asbestos Abatement." Asbestos use in the United
States didn't start to decline until the 1973-1978
EPA bans on spray-applied materials, and the
building recession which happened during that same
period.
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Diseases and deaths associated with exposure to
asbestos fibers are the principle factors behind "the
Asbestos Problem." The three major respiratory
diseases associated with asbestos are asbestosis,
lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Their medical
nature are discussed in much greater detail in the
section, "Health Effects of Asbestos Exposure."
While the documented health effects from exposure
to asbestos are no doubt the underlying cause of the
asbestos problem, the legal problems which followed
and even now continue are contributing factors.
Legal actions affect all parties involved in asbestos
abatement in several ways and are addressed in the
section, "Legal and Insurance Considerations."
During the early 1970s, the federal government
attempted to respond to these health and legal
problems by issuing regulations and guidelines to
provide some controls for industrial exposures to
asbestos fibers. Then during the late 70s and early
80s, they added guidelines and requirements to
cover building occupants, especially schools. These
actions, combined with the health and legal issues,
prompted the need for asbestos abatement policies.
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However, before an asbestos problem in a building
can be controlled, it must be evaluated and a
variety of decisions must be made. Those evaluat-
ing and deciding techniques are not the focus of this
course, but since they can affect all involved
parties, they will be reviewed during the next
section of this manual.
If an asbestos problem exists, the evaluation and
deciding techniques will almost always result in
"Contract Specifications" for an abatement or
control project. Those specifications will be dis-
cussed in a section devoted to that subject.
Once the specifications are issued and a contractor
is selected to do the work, a variety of simultaneous
and sequential considerations, techniques, and job
phases are necessary to complete the abatement
project.
These considerations, techniques, and phases are the
main contents of this course. In addition to those
sections already mentioned, notebook modules are
included on the following topics:
o Pre-Work Activities/Considerations
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o Establishing a Medical Surveillance
Program
o Protecting the Worker -- Respiratory
Program/Protective Clothing
o Establishing an Air-Supplied Respirator
System
o Preparing the Work Area and Establishing
the Decontamination Unit
o Confining and Minimizing Airborne Fibers
o Other Safety and Health Requirements
o Air Sampling Requirements During and
After the Project
o Cleaning Up the Work Area
o Waste Disposal Requirements
o Post-Removal Encapsulation and Sprayback
Procedures
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o Glovebag Techniques for Removal of Pipe
Insulation; and
o New Developments in Asbestos Abatement
The accompanying pre-course quiz illustrates the
type of questions which are included in the 100
question post-course exam. However, most
participants find the post-course exam to be slightly
more complex and difficult than the quiz. The quiz
questions? and answers will be discussed during a self-
grading session.
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ASBESTOS ABATEMENT FLOWCHART
CO
I
Installed &,
UA ** 1 *-U
Health ^
Problems
Publicity ^
Operation
t, Maint.
Program
Evaluate &
Legal ~ Decide on - Specs, for^.
Problems Abatement " Contract
Supv. of Contract
Abatement Work ^
w
Air Sampling fc
Revised Q&M
Proeram "^
Re-Use ^
of Space ^
INVOLVED PARTIES
Building Owner
Asbestos Coordinator
Architect/Engineer
Public
Legal Counsel
Medical Authority
Analytical Laboratory
Contractor
Industrial Hygienist
Government (EPA, OSHA, etc.)
CONSIDERATIONS
Safety & Health
Legal
Employee Relations
Publicity
Architectual
Engineering
Governmental
Analytical
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PRE-COURSE QUIZ
INSTRUCTIONS - Circle the one (rawer which Is most correct.
1. Trieble ubeitoi material" meant my materiel that contain! more than one
percent ubestoi by weight and that:
a. Can be crumbled, pulverized, or reduced to powder, when dry, by hand
pressure.
b. Cannot release fibers into the air.
c. Withstands a temperature of 2000°F for four hours without burning.
d. Cannot be burned at any temperature in a normal atmosphere.
2. If the plastic which seals off the work area gc's a rip in it, what ahould be
dor*?
a. Seal it at the end of the shift
b. Stop work in area and seal with tape
c. Prop a piece of plywood over it
d. Stick a disposable suit in it
3. Whine ultimate legal responsibility is it to make sure that the contractor's
employees are properly protected from work hazards?
a. OSHA'a
b. The contractor's
c. EPA's
d. State Board of Worker's Compensation
4. Wetting agenu are used in the water sprayed onto asbestos materials (to be
removed) in order to:
a. Wet the materials/asbestos more effectively
b. Make the room cooler
c. Make the water flow thru the (prayer better
d. Cause the material to release and break up better
5. Which of the following factors are important for protecting the workers while
they perform asbestos removal work?
a. Hang plastic and notify OSHA
b. Wet the material and require protective equipment
c. Post signs and wait 2ft hours before starting
d. Remove the material dry and complete the work quickly
6. The purpose of an airlock at the perimeter of an asbestos abatement area is
to:
a. Keep air out of the work area
b. Keep asbestos fibers in the work area
c. Keep humidity in the work area
d. Keep strangers out of the work area
7. Protection factors are one measure of a respirator's effectiveness. Which
protection factor is incorrect for the type of respirator?
a. Type C airline = 1000
b. Half mask filter = 100
c. Disposable = 5
d. Powered air purifying = 1000
B. If an employee averages breathing 10 liters (10,000 cubic centimeters) of air
per minute and the air contains 0.1 f/cc (fiber per cubic centimeter), how may
fibers will the employee breath during 8 hours?
a. 1,000
b. 4,800
c. 48,000
d. 480,000
9. The person in the drawing is most likely:
a. Checking his respirator's protection factor
b. Showing his finger nails to an inspector
c. Checking the fit of his respirator
d. Giving a hand signal to a co-worker
10. The person in the drawing is wearing what type of respirator?
a. Oisposable/Air Purifying
b. Full Face/Type C
c. Half Mask/Air Purifying
d. Half Mask/Air Supplied
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BACKGROUND INFORMATION CONCERNING
ASBESTOS ABATEMENT
Objective: To understand some of the activities and decisions that precede an
asbestos abatement project. This includes the building survey, hazard
assessment, and interim control procedures.
Learning Tasks: Material presented in this section should enable participants to:
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called the lung's garbage collectors. However,
because asbestos is a mineral fiber, the macro-
phages are often not successful. If the cells cannot
digest the fibers, they call in a secondary defense
mechanism. They deposit a coating on the fibers
causing scar tissue to be formed, and a condition
develops known as asbestosis.
ASBESTOSIS
Asbestosis is a disease characterized by fibrotic
scarring of the lung. It is a restrictive lung disease
which reduces the capacity of the lung. The
common symptom is shortness of breath. Asbestosis
is prevalent among workers who have been exposed
to large doses of asbestos fibers over a long period
of time. Accordingly, there is a clear dose-response
relationship between asbestos exposure and develop-
ment of this disease. This means that the greater
the asbestos exposure, the more likely asbestosis
will develop. All forms of asbestos have demon-
strated the ability to cause asbestosis. Like all
diseases associated with asbestos exposure, it may
take many years for the disease to develop. The
typical latency period for asbestosis is 15-30 years.
An asbestos abatement worker using work practices
and protective equipment described in this manual
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will have a much smaller likelihood of developing
asbestosis as a result of his or her work.
LUNG CANCER
There are many causes of lung cancer, of which
asbestos is only one. While employees exposed to
industrial concentrations of asbestos in years past
have a five times greater risk of getting lung
cancer, the risk is not as great as the cigarette
smoker who has a ten times greater risk. Even more
important, these two factors operate together to
produce the greatest risk of all. A cigarette smoker
who also works with asbestos is more than 50 times
more likely to contract lung cancer than a non-
smoking non-asbestos worker.
Like asbestosis, there exists a long lag time between
initial exposure and the occurrence of lung cancer,
typically 20-30 years. There appears to be some
relationship between asbestos exposure and lung
cancer, although no "safe level" has yet been
determined. Again, these figures relate to past
industrial situations where workers wore little or no
protective equipment. Proper protection and work
practices will substantially lessen the risk of
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abatement workers getting lung cancer due to
asbestos.
MESOTHELIOMA
The asbestos-associated disease of greatest concern
in asbestos abatement is probably mesothelioma.
Fortunately, it is also the rarest. Mesothelioma is a
cancer of the chest cavity lining (mesothelium) and
can also occur in the lining of the abdominal cavity.
Although exposure to asbestos has been strongly
associated with most cases of mesothelioma, some
cases may occur without asbestos exposure. If
mesothelioma occurs in the chest cavity, it is called
pleural mesothelioma. In the abdominal cavity, it is
known as peritoneal mesothelioma. This type of
cancer spreads very rapidly and is always fatal. The
exact cause remains unknown. There does not
appear to be any increased risk of mesothelioma for
smokers and there does not appear to be a dose-
related relationship between the amount of asbestos
exposure and mesothelioma. Cases have been
recorded where the person's asbestos exposure had
been extremely limited. Like the other diseases of
asbestos, mesothelioma takes 30-40 years after
initial exposure, if it occurs.
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OTHER DISEASES
Several other diseases are found more often among
persons exposed to asbestos than the normal popula-
tion. These include cancer of the esophagus,
stomach, colon, and pancreas, pleural plaques,
pleural thickening, and pleural effusion. The inci-
dence of these health effects is much less than lung
cancer. Again, the importance of using the proper
work practices and protective equipment cannot be
overemphasized to minimize the occurrence of
these diseases due to unnecessary asbestos exposure.
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LEGAL AND INSURANCE CONSIDERATIONS
Objective: To provide a brief awareness of the legal and insurance issues
affecting asbestos abatement contracting.
Learning Tasks: Information in this section should enable participants to:
CCSf" Grasp an overview of common and statutory law, including tort
litigation and regulatory compliance.
CCSf Discover the value of recordkeeping and documentation.
Learn the "State-of-the-art obligation."
Appreciate asbestos abatement contract specifications and
documents.
Discern bonding, workers' compensation, and insurance
requirements.
Avoid legal pitfalls on asbestos abatement projects.
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LEGAL PROBLEMS IN ASBESTOS ABATEMENT1
The owner or manager of a building facing the
presence of asbestos has many problems. A major
area of concern for building owners is the legal
implications of asbestos present in buildings. In
general, the problems can be divided into two areas.
One broad area is the law of torts or legal wrongs.
This could include the possibility of an owner being
sued for failure to properly abate or contain
asbestos. It could also include a cost recovery
action by an owner who has or will perform an
abatement program. The second broad area of
concern to owners is the area of contracts as
related to asbestos abatement programs. This is the
area of emphasis in these remarks.
The remarks contained in this paper are, by nature,
general and do not attempt to specifically explore
the law of any state. Moreover, these remarks are
not intended to constitute a specific legal opinion on
any asbestos abatement project. The sole purpose
of these remarks is for the general guidance of
those involved in asbestos abatement work. Specific
legal advice on any matter should be obtain from
competent legal counsel.
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TYPES OF CONTRACTS
Once a building owner has decided to engage in an
asbestos abatement program, the owner is faced
with many practical questions. The first of these
relates to contract documents. A typical contract
used for this type of work is the American Institute
of Architects (A.I.A.) form contract. This will
frequently consist of A.I.A. Form 101 ("Owner-
Contractor Agreement Form -- Stipulated Sum"), a
four-page document which typically contains the
name of contracting parties, the contract amount,
the start and completion date and other general
data. Accompaying the A.I.A. Form 101 is the
A.I.A. Form 201. This is a 19-page document which
contains much of the "boiler plate" language. A.I.A.
201 has been around for many years. Its clauses
have been frequently litigated and lawyers and
building owners are familiar with the normal inter-
pretation placed on the language in A.I.A. 201. This
provides for a degree of certainty which is desir-
able. Of course, disputes do arise under these
clauses. However, it is much easier for counsel and
a building owner and a contractor to resolve differ-
ences in this known area than in the unknown areas
of a job specification on an asbestos abatement
contract,,
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The third document that will typically be included in
an asbestos abatement contract is the job manual or
job specifications. Whether the job is private and an
A.I.A. contract is used or whether the job is public
and an A.I.A. contract is used or whether the job is
public, and for example, the General and Special
Conditions, a two-inch thick book of standard speci-
fications on a Federal project is used, any asbestos
abatement project requires a set of job specifica-
tions. The fact that these job specifications have
not been through the courts and have not been
subject to the interpretations placed on the standard
specifications in A.I.A. forms and other standard
forms like the Federal forms makes architects and
engineers cautious in their interpretations of
asbestos abatement specifications -- and it should.
Frequently, architects and engineers give very strict
interpretations to these clauses and are much less
permissive than in interpretation of other clauses
involving less hazardous activities.
CONTRACT SPECIFICATIONS
One of the primary important areas in the specifica-
tions is the work description. Typically, if a whole
building is involved, the work description may be no
problem. However, if a contractor is being asked to
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remove only a segment of a floor of a building, or
the like, a serious abatement problem may exist.
When the plastic barrier is removed, will the "clean
air" obtained still be clean? Another problem is
illustrated by the job where the contractor was
asked to remove friable material from beams over a
dirt basement in a commercial building.
Specifications did not call for barrier protection for
the dirt. The contractor, fully in compliance with
the specifications, removed the asbestos and con-
taminated the dirt. The result was that a second
abatement effort was required for the removal of
several inches of dirt in the basement. This cost,
quite unnecessary, was the result of inadequately
prepared specifications. Of course, drawings are of
a great assistance in properly defining job bounda-
ries and the specifications.
Another issue that frequently arises if that of
furniture, fixtures, and equipment. Most asbestos
abatement projects require the removal and then
reinstallation of furniture, fixtures, and equipment.
The owner should make a realistic assessment of
whether salvage of fixtures is feasible. The age and
condition of the equipment must be assessed. It will
only promote contractual disputes for the owner to
insist that a contractor remove and reinstall fix-
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tures which will be damaged or destroyed by that
very process. The owner should not expect to
engage in a "backdoor" renovation of his building, at
the contractor's expense, by placing specification
requirements on the contractor which are unattain-
able. From a contractor's point of view, a pre-
abatement job inspection is vital to determine
whether or not the specifications are realistic.
SITE SECURITY
Site security is another issue that should be specif-
ically addressed. In certain settings, such as a
school or hospital, an insecure job site can have
grave legal implications. Of course, any construc-
tion site can be dangerous, but an unmonitored
asbestos abatement site may be an "attractive
nuisance" for children or mentally disabled hospital
patients or others. The issue of whether security
must be maintained on a 24-hour basis is also one
which must be addressed. Again, this is an area
where more attention must be given if only one area
of a building is being abated while other areas are
occupied. If an entire building can be isolated,
security is a much easier process. Certainly the
regulatory warning signs required by EPA are impor-
tant. However, these should be viewed as a mini-
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mum warning and further warnings or security are
frequently necessary.
Each owner must participate, if only through his
architect or engineer representative, in equipment
requirement decisions on an asbestos abatement
project. The decision about whether to require
negative; air pressure units, what type of respiratory
protection equipment is required, what type of
clothing is sufficient, what numbers of HEPA units
are required and other similar equipment require-
ments are very important to the success and safety
of the job. From a legal standpoint, it can be
effectively argued that "state of the art" equipment
should be employed. OSHA requirements again
should be viewed as minimal requirements. If one is
not going to employ "state of the art" technology,
that decision must be justified. There may be
instances when Type "C" respiratory protection is
not required, such as during glovebag projects. The
counterbalancing danger of employee accidents
from the hoses on scaffolding might possibly out-
weigh the necessity for an air-supplied respirator.
The owner and his representative must be prepared
to justify such decisions. Of course, if the decision
to employ less than maximum protection is justified,
cost is a reasonable factor to be considered.
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INSURANCE
A major issue for asbestos abatement contractors is
insurance. At present, there is talk of a "crisis" and
some contractors have not been able to obtain
liability insurance. From the owner's or contractor's
perspective, it is first important to understand what
the insurance requirements may be. The first issue
is who must be protected. Generally speaking, the
owner will want to require protection for himself,
the contractor and the workers of the contractor.
This will mean that the owner will wish to be an
additional insured under the contractor's policy and
to be furnished a certificate of insurance. It is
important that the certificate of insurance specify
the types of coverage afforded. If the certificate of
insurance is not completely clear, the owner should
request a copy of the contractor's insurance policy.
Generally, it will be better practice to review the
contractor's policy. This is particularly true with
asbestos work exclusions now appearing in such
policies. In lieu of a review of the policy, an
affirmative representation from the insurer that the
work includes asbestos abatement coverage may
suffice. However, in most cases, a legal opinion will
be necessary.
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Insurance must protect the insureds from both
personal injury and property damage claims. While
this is standard in liability policies, in personal
injury claims, there may be an exclusion of coverage
for asbestos-related claims and in property damage
coverage:, there may be an exclusion for the
"pollution hazard," which could encompass asbestos
fibers released onto the property of another.
Therefore, the owner must be sure that he is pro-
tected from the real hazards presented by asbestos
abatement. Of course, it is necessary to insure
against the normal construction hazards as well.
Another very important point is to determine for
what length of time the insurance will be in force.
Clearly, the insurance should be in force during the
contract. However, it is most important that the
coverage continue after the contract is completed.
This will insure that, if the contractor fails to
completely abate the asbestos problem, and the
owner fails to discover the contractor's oversight,
the owner will nonetheless be protected.
Closely related to this is the need to determine
whether the insurance is "claims made" or
"occurrence" coverage. "Claims made" coverage
will insure one for claims made during the policy
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period. "Occurrence" coverage will insure for an
occurrence taking place during the policy period,
whether or not the claim is made at that time. This
is very important because of the long latency period
associated with asbestos diseases. If the insurance
is "claims made" insurance and the policy expires or
lapses, the owner may not be protected many years
later when the claim is actually made. This matter
should be carefully reviewed with the insurance
representative and with legal counsel.
Generally speaking, the owner needs liability insur-
ance coverage for both personal injury and property
damage risks, a builder's risk policy which protects
against the particular risks occurring during con-
struction, and, of course, workers' compensation
coverage which complies with the law of the state
where the work is to be done.
In most states, workers' compensation covers inju-
ries received on the job by employees. However,
firms engaged in asbestos abatement activities
should be aware that some states do not cover
occupational disease that arises many years after
employment has terminated. Further, some states
permit lawsuits to be filed against the employer by
its employees. Since this complex issue exceeds the
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scope of this manual, employers involved in asbestos
abatement should include workers' compensation
when consulting with their legal counsel.
One other important aspect of specification writing
and interpretation is the clean air standard to be
used. The OSHA standard of 2 fibers/cc has been
widely criticized and OSHA has attempted to lower
that standard to 0.5 fibers/cc. Again, the safest
legal path is going to be "state of the art." "State
of the art," according to many industrial hygienists
and other professionals, is 0.01 fibers/cc. Electron
microscopy should also be employed to demonstrate
"state of the art" work. If one is going to conduct
an asbestos abatement program, most contractors
will accept this as a standard they can attain.
Whether, in a given situation, a more strict standard
(i.e., not to exceed background levels) should be
applied, will have to be a judgment for the profes-
sionals in an individual case.
SUPERVISION AND TRAINING
The heart of any asbestos abatement project is not
the equipment, although the equipment is important,
or the physical structures, although they are vital,
too. The heart of the project is the care and skill
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exercised by the workers who remove the asbestos-
containing materials. If this occurs in a professional
manner, the owner can expect a good result. If the
work is sloppy, good equipment will not save the job.
Many projects are conducted with both trained and
untrained workers. Many asbestos abatement con-
tractors hire local workers and train them.
Unfortunately, a few contractors hire local workers
and do not train them. From the owner's perspec-
tive, it is vital that the job superintendent be an
experienced asbestos abatement worker. He or she
must have had the experience on various projects
and under various conditions. The owner should
require documentation of the experience. It will
behoove the owner to check on the quality of the
preceding jobs. The superintendent is the key to the
work.
Many jobs are sufficiently extensive to require a job
superintendent and a job foreman. The latter person
typically will be in the barriered area actually
supervising the workers while the job superintendent
may be in and out of the area at various times. If a
job foreman is required, he or she, too, should be
experienced and able to instruct the workers on-site
and personally supervise actual preparation, removal
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and follow-on clean-up activities. It is desirable to
contractually require that both of these positions be
filled by qualified individuals.
Many owners are now asking for contractors with
experienced work crews. It is possible to contractu-
ally require such, although the price of the job will
probably go up. From a legal standpoint, these
workers, particularly if untrained, are the weakest
link in the chain. If the workers are hired by the
contractor untrained, it is essential not only to meet
such OSHA requirements as medical examinations,
but also to conduct a program of worker training.
This should be done before any worker enters the
work site. The training should be conducted by
someone experienced in the field. This may be the
job superintendent. The training should include a
description of the hazards and all warnings neces-
sary for the worker to understand. Obviously, it
should include instruction in the use of any equip-
ment necessary. From a legal standpoint, it is most
important that records be kept documenting training
was given to each worker. Many contractors require
testing of their workers before they allow them to
proceed to the job site. If a test is administered, it
should be retained. Records of all training should be
kept for each worker. The owner should be per-
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mitted to inspect these records and copy them, if
desired. In fact, the owner may wish to maintain a
complete file on all workers who worked on his job.
This will avoid the problem of the contractor going
out of business later and an asbestos claim arising
against the owner many years thereafter based upon
an alleged failure to warn, or the like.
RECORDKEEPING
This area points to the need to maintain permanent
records on all phases of the job. It is not enough to
maintain these records for a few years. Asbestos
disease latency periods may extend 30 or more years
beyond the work date. These records should be
stored and maintained permanently.
ADEQUATE TIME FOR JOB PEFORMANCE
One of the most difficult problems in asbestos
abatement work is that of time. Once the owner
has decided to conduct an asbestos abatement
program, he is virtually always in a hurry. Many
programs are specified with very short time limits
of two to five days.
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To avoid contractual disputes, it is desirable for the
owner to specify enough time to allow the project to
be completed. Questions of access, other contrac-
tors, and the owners' employees must be considered.
Generally speaking, qualified abatement contractors
will proceed quickly once they begin a job. Owners
are frequently critical of late starts resulting in late
finishes. It may therefore be in the owner's interest
to provide some penalty for a late start as a means
of emphasizing to the contractor that the start date
is important. On the other hand, owners are
frequently guilty of not providing the site at the
time specified. This may result in difficulties for
the contractor with his other work. The resolution
is to cooperatively come up with a time for the
project which will be realistic both in length and in
calendar placement for the owner and the contrac-
tor.
As to delay damages, many owners choose to use
liquidated damages as a vehicle to make sure that
contractors finish the job. If extensive renovation
work or other important use of the facility is
contemplated, the liquidated damages may not suf-
fice to cover the actual damages. In these
instances, the owner may find that he is limited to
damages which are less than what he wants. Most
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courts have limited the owner to liquidated damages
if they are specified on the basis that the reason for
specifying liquidated damages is the uncertainty of
calculation of actual damages.
DISPOSAL OF ASBESTOS-CONTAINING WASTE
Another important issue is that of materials hand-
ling. Of course, the asbestos material must be
properly containerized, labeled, and shipped to an
approved dump site. The contract should so provide.
The owner should obtain receipts to show the deliv-
ery of the materials. It will be desirable to have an
inventory of the drums to compare to the dump site
receipt. This kind of attention to detail will elimi-
nate possible claims of improper toxic substance
dumping.
USE OF IN-HOUSE PERSONNEL
Many owners are public entities and have severe
budget constraints. There is a temptation to there-
fore use in-house staff for important functions in an
asbestos abatement program. Use of in-house staff
in lieu of outside experts may be a serious mistake
and may result in legal liability if the in-house staff
is unqualified. Issues of sovereign immunity and
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waiver of sovereign immunity are always, of course,
involved. However, an outside expert is probably
going to be desirable and needed if the public
agency has a serious enough problem to spend the
time to thoroughly train an in-house staff member
on operations and maintenance and the like. The
expert will be hired on a contractual basis and will
be able to train the in-house staff person.
SELECTION OF QUALIFIED CONTRACTORS
Another problem peculiar to public works is the low
bid problem. Low bid may equate to an unqualified
asbestos abatement contractor. The way to resolve
this problem and still comply with low bid obliga-
tions of a public agency is to pre-qualify the con-
tractor. Pre-qualification should consist of various
requirements. These may include experience, train-
ing, formal education (for instance, attending semi-
nars), insurance, as has been discussed, and a job
inspection. A public agency simply cannot afford to
hire an unqualified contractor on the basis that the
contractor submitted the low bid. Also, if the
contractor does not have the time to visit the site
and inspect it, he probably doesn't have the time to
do the job correctly.
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Frequently, an asbestos abatement contractor may
be coupled with other renovation work. It is virtu-
ally always necessary to have some replacement
structures for the asbestos-containing structures
that are removed. Generally, it is going to be more
desirable to have the asbestos abatement contractor
function as a subcontractor under a general contrac-
tor in charge of the entire project. This will allow
coordination of the trades. In a particularly danger-
ous job, it may be contractually necessary to require
some training of the workers of the other trades of
the dangers of the asbestos work. Certainly, con-
ferences of the trade superintendents throughout
the job is desirable and strict security is most
important in a job of that type.
Using the prime contractor with an asbestos abate-
ment subcontractor does raise a problem if the
asbestos abatement subcontractor is unable to com-
plete the work or is thrown off the job for some
reason. In most instances, the prime contractor will
not be able to complete the work himself. The
owner may wish to reserve the right to select a
substitute asbestos abatement subcontractor using
the same criteria used in the original selection.
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CLEANLINESS OF THE JOB SITE
One final note is that of the completion of the job
by obtaining "clean air." Actually, the contractual
requirements should be a combined requirement of
clean air and clean surfaces. It is possible to have
acceptable air monitoring tests and still have
dangerous levels of asbestos-containing materials
present within the building. In fact, once an abate-
ment project is undertaken, the disturbing of the
surfaces frequently makes the remaining material,
if not removed, more friable. Therefore, the owner
or his representative must be sure that the contrac-
tor has thoroughly removed all material and that the
air is clean. In this regard, the specifications may
call for disturbing the surfaces in the building,
including turning on the HVAC system and simula-
tion of normal activity within the building. The
background level must be considered. Generally, it
will not be necessary to specify a cleanliness stan-
dard higher than the background level. Certain
settings, such as a hospital, where fibers of cotton
and other materials are a regular fact of life, pose
testing problems. These should be resolved with the
air sampling professional.
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AIR MONITORING PROFESSIONAL
In that regard, the integrity of the air monitoring
person is vital. The air monitorer should be quali-
fied and experienced. There have been a few
instances of falsified tests reported. The important
contractual idea is to get air monitoring under a
separate contract from the abatement contractor.
An owner does not normally want to have a "turn
key" contract where his abatement contractor sup-
plies the air monitoring. The owner may wish the
air monitoring paid for as part of the abatement
contract, but should contractually provide for his
own air monitoring with a separate firm or person.
PAYMENT AND PERFORMANCE BONDS
One additional way to insure compliance with an
asbestos abatement contractor is to require a pay-
ment and performance bond. The insurance industry
is not very interested in this type of bond, but they
can be obtained by qualified contractors. The slight
additional cost of the bond is normally an insignifi-
cant part of the overall abatement contractor cost.
This is very much of an overview of the asbestos
abatement contract and its workings. It is very
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important that each owner and contractor consult
with legal counsel about specific legal problems.
These cannot be answered in a general presentation
such as this one.
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CONTRACT SPECIFICATIONS
Objective: To provide an overview of the contract specifications used for
asbestos abatement projects.
Learning Tasks: Information in this section should enable participants to:
CC3T7 Rec°9nize the importance of well-designed detailed contract
specifications.
CCSf Understand the reasons why specifications must be designed for
each project.
(GST" Become familiar with the content of guideline contract
specifications.
CCST" ^e aware °f key items in the contract specifications that can
greatly affect project cost and performance period.
COST" Recognize the importance of strict enforcement of the
specifications.
CCSf* ^ur>ther recognize the need for an interdisciplinary approach to
asbestos abatement.
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CONTRACT SPECIFICATIONS
Well designed, detailed contract specifications pro-
vide the overall guidance for each asbestos abate-
ment project. These specifications permit the con-
tractor to provide the building owner or architect an
accurate estimate or bid for completing the project.
With few exceptions, two contracts are required for
each project. One contract is established with the
contractor performing the actual abatement work
and a second contract between the building owner
(or architect) and the air sampling professional.
Poorly designed specifications will result in a poorly
done project. If details are omitted in the specifi-
cations or procedures are unclear, the bids will vary
tremendously. Likewise, contractors must spend the
necessary time to read the specifications in their
entirety before the pre-bid walk-through of the
intended job site.
Some key items the contractor should look for in the
specifications include the following:
Be sure that drawings and specifications
match what is in the building when con-
ducting the pre-bid survey.
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Check the criteria that will be used to
judge cleanliness of the work area. Will
electron microscopy be used?
The above-mentioned items are just a few of the
many things that are addressed in well-written job
specifications. Specifications must always be
developed for each individual project, unless it is an
emergency removal. Specifications from one
project may not be used for another without major
modification.
Attached to this section is a copy of guideline
specifications developed by the State of Maryland
for use on projects involving public buildings in their
state. Notes have been made in the right-hand
column of the pages indicating where the specifica-
tions may deviate from practices taught in this
course.
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Recommended Contract Specifications
for Asbestos Abatement Projects
MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF
HEALTH AND MENTAL HYGENE
STATE OF MARYLAND
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND MENTAL HYGIENE
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMS
SCIENCE AND HEALTH ADVISORY GROUP
WILLIAM M. EICHBAUM
ASSISTANT SECRETARY
April, 1985
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RECOMMENDED CONTRACT SPECIFICATIONS
FDR ASBESTOS ABATEMENT PROJECTS
Division of Environmental Disease Control
Science and Health Advisory Group
Office of Environmental Programs
Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene
William M. Eichbaum
Assistant Secretary
In partial fulfillmsnt of the
requirements for the United States
Environmental Protection Agency
TSCA Cooperative Agreement
Project CX812288-01-0
EPA Project Officers
Pamela R. Harris Stephen Schanamann
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
This document vas developed with the assistance of:
Max Eisenberg, Ph.D.
Director
Science and Health Advisory Group
Katherine P. Farrell, M.D., M.P.H.
Chief
Division of Environmental Disease Control
Alan S. Weikert
Senior Industrial Hygienist
Division of Environmental Disease Control
Pamela Harris
Compliance Monitoring Staff
United State, Environmental Protection Agency
Stephen Schanamann
Asbestos Action Program
United States Environmental Protection Agency
We wish to express our appreciation to Kathi Russell for her effort
on this project.
This document was prepared under a grant from the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, April, 1985.
NOTICE
The material in this document has been reviewed by the Maryland Department
of Health and Mental Hygiene, Office of Environmental Protection Agency and
approved for publication. Approval does not signify that the contents
necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Department of Health and
Mental Hygiene or the United State Environmental Protection Agency, nor does
mention of trade names of commerical products constitute endorsement or
recommendations for use.
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TABI£ OF CONTENTS
PART 1 General Information
1.1 Bidding Requirements
1.1.1 Site Investigation
1.1.2 Discrepancies
1.1.3 Modifications and Withdrawals of Bids
1.1.4 Bid Security
1.1.5 Licenses and Qualifications
1.1.6 Rejection of Bids
1.2 Definitions
1.3 Scope of Work
1.4 Description of Work
1.5 Applicable Standards and Guidelines
1.6 Submittals and Notices
1.7 Site Security
1.8 Emergency Planning
1.9 Pre-start Meeting
PART 2 Materials and Equipment
2.1 Materials
2.2 Equipment
2.3 Substitutions
PART 3 Execution
3.1 Preparation
3.1.1 Work Area Precleaning
3.1.2 Worker Decontamination Enclosure
3.1.3 Waste Container Pass-out Airlock
3.1.4 Barriers Between the Work Area and Occupied Areas
3.1.5 Maintenance of Enclosures
3.1.7 Testing Enclosures
3.1.8 Establishing Emergency Exits
3.1.9 Removing Fixtures from Area
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3.1.10 Removal of Ceilings and Other Building Components
3.1.11 Commencement of Work
3.1.12 Alternative Procedures
3.2 Workplace Entry and Exit Procedures
3.3 Respiratory Protection Requirements
3.4 Removal Procedures
3.5 Encapsulation Procedures
3.6 Enclosure Proedures
3.7 Clean-up Procedures
3.8 Clearance Air Monitoring
3.9 Disposal Procedures
3.10 Restablishment of Area and Systems
PART 4 Support Activities
4.1 Training
4.2 Medical Monitoring
4.3 Asbestos Project Manager
4.4 Air Sampling Professional
4.5 Laboratory Services
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PART 1 - General Information
1.1 Bidding Requirements
1.1.1 Site Investigation
1.1.1.1 By submitting a bid, the Contractor acknowledges that he has in-
vestigated and satisfied himself as to a) the conditions affecting
the work, including but not limited to physical conditions of the
site which may bear upon site access, handling and storage of
tools and materials, access to water, electric or other util-
ities or otherwise affect performance of required activities; b)
the character and quantity of all surface and subsurface materials
or obstacles to be encountered in so far as this information is
reasonably ascertainable from an inspection of the site, includ-
ing exploratory work done by the Building Owner or a designated
consultant, as well as information presented in drawings and
specifications included with this contract. Any failure by the
Contractor to acquaint himself with available information will not
relieve him from the responsiblity for estimating properly the
difficulty or cost of successfully performing the work. The
Building Owner is not responsible for any conclusions or inter-
pretations made by the Contractor on the basis of the information
made available by the Building Owner.
1.1.1.2 No bids will be accepted from any Contractor who has not inspected
the job site either in person or through a qualified designated
representative.
1.1.1.3 Bidders shall attend a pre-bid meeting to be held [Insert time,
place]. Attendance at this meeting by the Bidder or his qualified
representative is a mandatory prerequisite for the acceptance of
a bid from that Contractor.
1.1.1.4 Bidders are advised to take representative samples of the material
The contractor must be aware of the type
for analysis. Abatement procedures and equipment will vary and percentage of asbestos present.
depending on material composition. This should be reflected in
bid proposals.
1.1.2 Discrepancies
1.1.2.1 Should a Bidder find discrepancies in the plans and/or specific-
ations or should he be in doubt as to the meaning or intent of any
part thereof, he must, no later than [ ] days prior to the bid
opening, request clarification from the Building Owner. Dis-
crepancies with regard to conflicts between the Contract Documents
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and applicable Federal, State or Local regulations or requirements
shall be included herein. Failure to request such clarification
is a waiver to any claim by the Bidder for expense made necessary
by reason of later interpretation of the Contract Documents by the
Building Owner.
1.1.2.2 Explanations desired by a prospective Bidder regarding the con-
tract drawings [Insert drawings in Appendix], specifications or
other bid documents shall be requested in writing from the
Building Owner no later than [ ] days prior to the bid opening.
Requests shall include the contract number and name and shall be
directed to [insert address]
1.1.2.3 Oral explanations or instruction will not be binding. Only writ-
ten addenda are binding. Any addenda resulting from these re-
quests will be mailed to all listed holders of the Bid Document no
later than [ ] days prior to the bid opening. The Bidder shall
acknowledge the receipt of all addenda.
1.1.3 Modification and Withdrawal of Bids
1.1.3.1 Withdrawal or modifications to bids are effective only if writ-
ten notice thereof is filed prior to time of bid opening and at
the place specified in the Notice to Bidders. A notice of with-
drawal or modifications to a bid must be signed by the Contract-
or his designated representative.
1.1.3.2 No withdrawal or modifications shall be accepted after the
time for opening of proposals.
1.1.4 Bid .'Security
1.1.4.1 Each Bidder must furnish a bid bond issued by a reputable security
company with his proposal. The bond must be in an amount not less
than [ ] percent of the amount of the base bid. Other se-
curity may be acceptable as agreed to by the Building Owner.
1.1.4.2 Insurance requirements- The Contractor shall purchase and maintain
insurance that will protect him from claims that may arise out of
or result from his activities under this Contract, whether those
activities are performed by himself or by any Subcontractor or by
anyone directly or indirectly employed by any of them or by
anyone for whose acts any of them may be liable.
1.1.4.2.1 Bidders shall submit proof of coverage under the Workman's
Compensation insurance system of the State of [ ] or other
similar benefit acts.
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1.1.4.2.2 Bidders shall submit a certificate of general liability
insurance for personal injury, occupational disease and
sickness or death and property damage. Insurance shall
include "Occurrence" claim provisions. Minimum acceptable
coverage is:
$1,000,000 Combined Single Limit for Bodily Injury and
Property Damage or
$500,000 Bodily Injury and $250,000 Property Damage (each
occurence)
(NOTE: Building Owner must determine the appropriate
coverage for specific projects. Insurance policies
of this nature routinely explicitly prohibit
recovery for incidents involving toxic substances.
Contractor must be able to document that he has
notified his insurance carrier of the nature of his
work involvement with asbestos and that the coverage
in effect specifically includes an endorsement for
asbestos abatement activities. The Building
Owner should consult with his insurance carriers and
legal representatives for any specific provisions
that they may require for the abatement contract or
for insurance coverage and to review Bidder submiss-
ions .)
1.1.4.2.3 The Building Owner shall provide vehicle liability and
property damage insurance for the duration of the project.
1.1.4.2.4 [Any additional insurance requirements)
1.1.4.2.5 If the Owner permits the Contractor to use any of the Owner's
equipment tools or facilities, such use will be gratuitous
and the Contractor shall release the Owner from any respon-
sibility arising from claims for personal injuries, including
death, arising out of the use of such equipment, tools, or
facilities irrespective of the condition thereof or any
negligence on the part of the Owner in permiting their use.
1.1.4.3 Should the Bidder to whom the contract is awarded fail or be un-
able to execute the contract for any reason within [ ] days
after notification of award, then an amount equal to the
difference between the acceptable bid price, and that of the
next highest Bidder shall be paid to the Building Owner as liquid-
ated damages.
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1.1.4.4 As a prerequisite to signing the contract and prior to the expir-
ation of [ ] days following notification of award, the Bidder
shall have furnished Performance and Payment Bonds and Certifi-
cates of Insurance.
1.1.5 Licenses and Qualifications
1.1.5.1 Bidders must be licensed as required by Construction Firm Law of
[include citation from appropriate regulations:] (where applicable)
1.1.5.2 Bidders must be licensed as required by the [regulatory agency]
for the purpose of removal, encapsulation, enclosure, demolition
and maintenance of structures or components covered by or com-
posed of asbestos-containing materials [include citation from
appropriate regulation).
1.1.5.3 Bidders shall demonstrate prior experience on asbestos abatement
projects of similar nature and scope through the submission of
letters of reference from the Building Owner's including the name,
address and telephone number of contact person (someone
specifically familiar with the Contractor's work) for at least
three (3) previous users of service. Include descriptions of
projects, locations, and records of all air monitoring data
that were generated during the project.
1.1.5.4 Bidders shall submit a notarized statement, signed by an officer
of the company, containing the following information:
1.1.5.4.1 A record of any citations issued by Federal, State or Local
regulatory agencies relating to asbestos abatement activity.
Include projects, dates, and resolutions.
1.1.5.4.2 A list of penalties incurred through non-compliance with
asbestos abatement project specifications including liquidated
damages, overruns in scheduled time limitations and
resolutions.
1.1.5.4.3 Situations in which an asbestos related contract has been
terminated including projects, dates and resons for termin-
ations .
1.1.5.4.4 A listing of any asbestos-related legal procedings/claim:: in
which the Contractor (or employees scheduled to participate
in this project) have participated or are currently involved.
Include descriptions of role, issue and resolution to date.
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1.1.6 The Builaing Owner reserves the right to reject bids for any reason
that serves the best interests of the Building Owner or building
occupants. The Building Owner also reserves the right to waive any
technicality or irregularity in a bid. Failure to submit requested
information/documentation or the submission of incorrect information/
documentation will result in automatic disaqualification of bid
package.
1.2 Definitions
1.2.1 Abatement - Procedures to control fiber release from asbestos-contain-
ing materials. Includes removal, encapsulation, enclosure, repair,
demolition and renovation activities.
1.2.2 AO3IH - American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists
6500 Glenway Avenue Building D-5
Cincinnati, Ohio 45211
1.2.3 AIHA - American Industrial Hygiene Association.
475 Wolf Ledges Parkway
Akron, Ohio 44311
1.2.4 Airlock - A system for permitting ingress and engress with minimum air
movement between a contaminated area and an uncontaminated area,
typically consisting of two curtained doorways separated by a distance
of at least 3 feet such that one passes through one doorway into the
airlock, allowing the doorway sheeting to overlap and close off the
opening before proceeding through the second doorway, thereby prevent-
ing flow-through contamination.
1.2.5 Air monitoring - The process of measuring the fiber content of a known
volume of air collected during a specific period of time. The
procedure normally utilized for asbestos follows the NIOSH Standard
Analytical Method for Asbestos in Air P&CAM 239 or Method 7400.
For clerance air monitoring, electron microscopy methods may be
utilized for lower detectability and specific fiber identification.
1.2.6 Air Sampling Professional - The professional contracted or employed by
the Building Owner to supervise and/or conduct air monitoring and
analysis schemes. This individual may also function as the Asbestos
Project Manager, if qualified. Supervision of air sampling and
evaluation of results should be performed by an individual certified in
the Comprehensive Practice of Industrial Hygiene (C.I.H.) and having
specialized experience in air sampling for asbestos. Other acceptable
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Air Sarpling Professionals include Environmental Engineers, Architects,
chemists and Environmental Scientists or others with equivalent
experience in asbestos air monitoring. This individual shall not be
affiliated inany way other than through this contract with the
Contractor performing the abatement work.
1.2.7 Attended water - Water to which a surfactant has been added.
1.2.8 ANSI - American National Standards Institute
1430 Broadway
New York, New York 10018
1.2.9 Asbestos means the asbestiform varieties of serpentine (chrysotile),
rie beckite (crocidolite), cumningtonite - grunerite (amosite),
anthrophyllite, and actinolite, and tremolite.
1.2.10 Asbestos containing material (ACM)-Material composed of asbestos of any
type and in an amount greater than 1% by weight, either alone or mixed
with other fibrous or non-fibrous materials
1.2.11 Asbestos containing waste material - asbestos containing material or
asbestos contaminated objects requiring disposal.
1.2.12 Asbestos Project Manager (also known as Clerk-of-the Works or Competent
Person.)-An individual qualified by virtue of experience and education,
designated as the Owner's representative and responsible for overseeing
the asbestos abatement project. [If an Asbestos Project Manager has
been selected, he may be specifically designated here.] See Section
4.3
1.2.13 AS1M - American Society For Testing and Materials
19 Hi Race Street
Philadelphia, Pa. 19103
1.2.14 Authorized visitor - The Building Owner [and any designated represent-
atives] and any representative of a regulatory or other agency having
jurisdiction over the project.
1.2.15 Building Owner - The Owner or his authorized representative.
1.2.16 Certified Industrial Hygienist - (Cffi) - An industrial hygienist certi-
fied in Ccnprehensive Practice by the American Board of Industrial
Hygiene. (See Section 1.2.3 for address)
1.2.17 Clean room - An uncontaminated area or room which is a part of the
worker decontamination enclosure system with provisions for storage of
worker's street clothes and clean protective equipment.
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1.2.18 Contractor - The individual and/or business with which the Building
Owner arranges to perform the asbestos abatement. It is recommended
that wherever asbestos abatement is part of a larger project, the
arbestos work be contracted separately and distinctly from other
contract work. When this is not possible, the Contractor is
responsible for the proper completion of project activities in
accordance with this contract specifications even where a subcontractor
has been retained to perform the actual abatement.
1.2.19 Curtained doorway - A device to allow ingress or engress from one room
to another while permitting minimal air movement between the rooms,
typically constructed by placing two overlapping sheets of plastic over
an existing or temporarily framed doorway, securing each along the top
of the doorway, securing the vertical edge of one sheet along one
vertical side of the doorway and securing the vertical edge of the
other sheet along the opposite vertical side of the doorway. Other
effective designs are permissible.
1.2.20 Decontamination enclosure system - A series of connected rooms,
separated from the work area and from each other by air locks, foi the
decontamination of workers and equipment.
1.2.21 Demolition - The wrecking or taking out of any load-supporting struct-
ural member of a facility together with any related handling
operations.
1.2.22 Encapsulant - A liquid material which can be app1ied to asbestos con-
taining material which controls the possible release of asbestos fibers
from the material either by creating a membrane over the surface
(bridging encapsulant) or by penetrating into the material and binding
its components together (penetrating encapsulant).
1.2.23 Encapsulation - The application of an encapsulant to asbestos contain-
ing materials to control the release of asbestos fibers into the air.
1.2.24 Enclosure - The construction of an air-tight, impermeable, permanent
barrier around asbestos containing material to control the release of
asbestos fibers into the air.
1.2.25 EPA - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
401 M Street S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20460
1.2.26 Equipment decontamination enclosure system - That portion of a
decontamination enclosure system designed for controlled transfer of
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materials and equipment into or out of the work area, typically
consisting of a washroom and holding area.
1.2.27 Equipment room - A contaminated area or room which is part of the work-
er decontamination enclosure system with provisions for storage of
contaminated clothing and equipment.
1.2.28 Facility - Any institutional, commercial or industrial structure,
installation or building.
1.2.29 Facility component - Any pipe, duct, boiler, tank, reactor, turbine or
furnace at or in a facility or any structural member of a facility.
1.2.30 Fixed object - A piece of equipment or furniture in the work area which
cannot be removed from the work area.
1.2.31 Friable asbestos - Asbestos containing material which can be crumbled
to dust, when dry, under hand pressure.
1.2.32 Glovebag technique - A method with limited applications for removing
sirall amounts of friable asbestos-containing material from HVAC ducts,
short piping runs, valves, joints, elbows, and other non-planar
surfaces in a non-contained (plasticized) work area. The glovebag
assembly is a manufactured or fabricated device consisting of a
glovebag (typically constructed of 6 mil transparent polyethylene or
polyvinylchloride plastic), two inward projecting longsleeves, an
internal tool pouch, and an attached, labeled receptacle for asbestos
waste. The glovebag is constructed and installed in such a manner that
it surrounds the object or material to be removed and contains all
aslsestos fibers released during the process. All workers who are
permitted to use the glovebag technique must be highly trained,
experienced and skilled in this method.
1.2.33 HVAC - Heating, ventilation and air conditioning system
1.2.34 HEPA fir . - - A high efficiency particulate air filter capable of re-
moving particles >0.3 microns in diameter with 99.97% efficiency
1.2.35 HEPA vacuum - A vacuum system equipped with HEPA filtration
1.2.36 Holding area - A chamber in the equipment decontamination enclosure
located between the washroom and an uncontaminated area. The holding
area comprises an airlock.
1.2.37 Movable object - A piece of equipment or furniture in the work area
which can be removed from the work area.
1.2.38 Negative pressure ventilation system - A portable exhaust system
equipped with HEPA filtration and capable of maintaining a constant
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low velocity air flow into contaminated areas from adjacent
uncontaminated areas.
1.2.39 NESHAPS - The National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants
(40 CFR Part 61)
1.2.40 NIOSH - The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
OX - NIOSH
Building J N.E. Room 3007
Atlanta, Ga. 30333
1.2.41 OSHA - The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
200 Constitution Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20210
1.2.42 Outside air - The air outside buildings and structures.
1.2.43 Plasticize - To cover floors and walls with plastic sheeting as herein
specified.
1.2.44 Prior experience - Experience required of the contractor on asbestos
projects of similar nature and scope to insure capability of performing
the asbestos abatement in a satisfactory manner. Similarities shall be
in areas related to material composition, project size, abatement
methods required, number of employees and the engineering, work
practice and personal protection controls required.
1.2.45 Removal - The stripping of any asbestos containing materials from sur-
faces or components of a facility.
1.2.46 Renovation - Altering in any way one or more facility components.
Operations in which load-supporting structural members are wrecked or
taken out are excluded.
1.2.47 Shower room - A roan between the clean room and the equipment room in
the worker decontamination enclosure with not and cold or warm running
water controllable at the tap and suitably arranged for complete
showering during decontamination.
1.2.48 Staging area - Either the holding area or some area near the waste
transfer airlock where containerized asbestos waste has been placed
prior to removal from the work area.
1.2.49 Strip - To take off friable asbestos materials from any part of
facility
1.2.50 Structural member - Any load-supporting member of a facility, such as
beams and load-supporting walls or any non-load-supporting member, such
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as ceilings and non-load-supporting walls.
1.2.51 Surfactant - A chemical wetting agent added to water to improve pene-
tration .
1.2.52 Visible emissions - Any emissions containing particulate asbestos mat-
erial that are visually detectable without the aid of instruments.
This does not include condensed unoombined water vapor.
1.2.53 Waste transfer airlock - A decontamination system utilized for trans-
ferring containerized waste from inside to outside of the work area.
1.2.54 Wet cleaning - The process of eliminating asbestos contamination from
building surfaces and objects by using cloths, mops, or other cleaning
utensils which have been dampened with water and afterwards thoroughly
decontaminated or disposed of as asbestos contaminated waste.
1.2.55 Work area - Designated rooms, spaces, or areas of the project in which
asbestos abatement actions are to be undertaken or which may become
contaminated as a result of such abatement actions. A contained work
.area is a work area which has been sealed, plasticized, and equipped
with a decontamination enclosure system. A non-contained work area is
an isolated or controlled-access work area which has not been
plasticized nor equipped with a decontamination enclosure system.
1.2.56 Worker decontamination enclosure - A decontamination system consisting
of a clean room, a shower room, and an equipment room separated from
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1.4. Description of Mork
1.4.1 The work specified herein shall be the [removal] [and] [encapsulation]
[and] [enclosure] of asbestos containing materials by competent persons
trained, knowledgeable and qualified in the techniques of abatement,
handling and disposal of asbestos-containing and asbestos-contaminated
materials and the subsequent cleaning of contaminated areas, who com-
ply with all applicable Federal, State, and Local regulations and are
capable of and willing to perform the work of this Contract.
1.4.2 [Provide details concerning abatement measures for each area mentioned
in 1.3.2, if more than one technique is to be used during the scope of
the Contract].
1.4.3 The Contractor shall supply all labor, materials, services, insurance,
permits a- equipment necessary to carry out the work in accordance
with all appliable Federal, State and Local regulations and these
specifications.
1.4.4 [Provide details on special conditions at the site which must be con-
sidered by the Contrator when performing the asbestos abatement (e.g.
high temperatures, equipment that must remain in operation, other toxic
substances in the air, running through pipes or contaminating
surfaces).
1.4.5 The Contractor is responsible for restoring the work area and auxiliary
areas utilized during the abatement to conditions equal to or better
than orginal. Any damages caused during the performance of abatement
activities shall be repaired by the Contractor (e.g. paint peeled off
by barrier tape, nail holes, water damage, broken glass) at no addi-
tional ev.spense to the Building Owner.
1.4.6 Related work specified elsewhere. (This related work should be
specified elsewhere but mentioned here. This would include work
such as the replacement of materials for Fireproofing insulation,
on soundproofing purposes, work on electrical or mechanical systems,
painting, air monitoring, and the installation of new ceiling panals.
1.5 Applicable Standards and Guidelines
1.5.1 General requirements
1.5.1.1 All work under this contract shall be done in strict accordance
with all applicable Federal, State and Local regulations, stand-
ards and codes governing asbestos abatement and any other trade
work done in conjunction with the abatement.
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1.5.1.2 The most recent edition of any relevent regulation, standard, doc-
ument or code shall be in effect. Where conflict among the re-
quirements or with these specifications exists the most stringent
requirements shall be utilized.
1.5.1.3 Copies of all standards, regulations, codes and other appliable
documents, including this specification and those listed in Sec-
tion 1.5.2 shall be available at the worksite in the clean change
area of the worker decontamination system.
1.5.2 Specific requirements
1.5.2.1 Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
1.5.2.1.1 Title 29 Cbde of Federal Regulations Section 1910.1001 - Gen-
eral Industry Standard For Asbestos.
1.5.2.1.2 Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations Section 1910.134 General
Industry Standard For Respiratory Protection.
1.5.2.1.3 Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations Section 1926 Construction
Industry
1.5.2.1.4 Title 29 Code of Federal Regualtions Section 1910.2 Access to
Employee Exposure and Medical Records
1.5.2.1.5 Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations Section 1910.1200 Hazard
Communication
1.5.2.2 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
1.5.2.2.1 Title 40 Code of Federal Regulations Part 61 Subparts A and M
(Revised Subpart B) - National Emission Standard For Asbestos.
1.5.2.3 [Include citations for any State or Local regulations that apply
to any phase of the asbestos abatement (e.g. Licensing regulat-
ions ; disposal requirements.)]
1.5.2.4 [Title of other guidelines, codes, or documents with which the
abatement Contractor must comply or be familiar.]
1.6 Submittals and Notices
1.6.1 Contractor shall:
1.6.1.1 Prior To Cormencement of Work:
1.6.1.1.1 Should abatement projects involving greater than 160 linear
feet of pipe insulation or 260 square feet of sprayed,
throweled or otherwise applied material or covering or
composing building structures or components, send written
notification in accordance with 40 CFR Part 61.146 of Subpart
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M, to the appropriate State or Federal air pollution control
agency responsible for the enforcement of the National
Bnission Standard for Asbestos at least ten (10) days prior to
the cornnencement of any on-site project activity. Provide
Building Oner with a copy of the notice. [Attach copy of
notification forms and list of air pollution control agencies]
[Also notfiy in writing, with a copy to the Building Owner.)
1.6.1.1.2 Submit proof satisfactory to the Building Oner that required
permits, site location and arrangements for transport and
disposal of asbestos containing waste materials have been
made. Obtain and submit a copy of handling procedures and
list of protective equipment utilized for asbestos disposal
at the landfill, signed by the landfill Owner. (Required for
all abatement projects.)
1.6.1.1.3 Submit documentation satisfactory to the Building Owner that
the Contractor's employees, including foremen, supervisors and
any other company personnel or agents who may be exposed to
airborne asbestos fibers or.who may be responsible for any
aspects of abatement activities, have received adequate
training that includes, at a minimum, information in Part 4
Section 4.1 of this document.
1.6.1.1.4 Submit documentation from a physician that all employees or
agents who may be exposed to airborne asbestos in excess of
backgound level have been provided with an opportunity to be
medically monitored to determined whether they are physically
capable of working while wearing the respirator required
without suffering adverse health effects. In addition,
document that personnel have received medical monitoring as
required in OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1001 (j). The Contractor must be
aware of and provide information to the examining physician
about unusual conditions in the workplace environment (e.g.
high temperatures, humidity, chemical contamiments) that may
impact on the employee's ability to perform work activities:
1.6.1.1.5 Submit to the Building Owner, shop drawings for layout and
construction of decontamination enclosure systems and barriers
for isolation of the work area as detailed in this specifica-
tion and required by applicable regulations. (The Building
The notification requirements may vary
from state-to-state. For more information
see section entitled, "Waste Disposal
Requirements" in this notebook.
NOTE: Training requirements vary greatly
in different states. Contact the EPA
Regional Asbestos Coordinator for
up-to-date information on this.
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Cwner may wish to specify these layouts in the specificat-
tions.)
1.6.1.1.6 With the Building Owner, inspect the premises wherein all
abatement and abatement related activities will occur and
submit a statement signed by both, agreeing on building and
fixture condition prior to the commencement of work.
1.6.1.1.7 Submit manufacturer's certification that HEPA vacuums,
negative pressure ventilation units and other local exhaust
ventilation equipment conform to ANSI Z9.2-79.
1.6.1.1.8 • When rental equipment is to be used in abatement areas or to
transport asbestos contaminated waste, a written notification
concerning intended use of the rental equipment must be pro-
vided to the rental agency with a copy submitted to the Build-
ing Owner.
1.6.1.1.9 DDCument NIOSH approvals for all respiratory protective
devices utilized on site. Include manufacturer certification
of HEPA filtration capabilities for all cartridges and
filters.
1.6.1.1.10 Submit pre-abatement air sampling results {if conducted-these
s;inples are optional, since the Contractor rarely has access
to the site prior to job initiation.) Include location of
samples, name of Air Sampling Professional, equipment, and
methods utilized for sampling and analysis. (See sections
1.6.2.1.2 and 4.4.3.1)
1.6.1.1.11 Submit documentation of respirator fit-testing for all Con-
tractor employees and agents who must enter the work area.
This fit-testing shall be in accordance with qualitative
procedures as- detailed in the OSHA Lead Standard 29 CFR
1910.1025 Appendix D Qualitative Fit Test Protocol or be
quantitative in nature.
1.6.1.2 During Abatement Activities
1.6.1.2.1 Submit weekly (or as otherwise required by the Building
O*ner) job progress reports detailing abatement activities.
Include review of progress with respect to previously
established milestones and schedules, major problems and
action taken, injury reports, equipment breakdown and bulk
material and air sampling results conducted by Contractor's
Air Sampling professional.
This may be obtained through the NIOSH
"List of Certified Equipment", the
manufacturer, or local OSHA office.
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1.6.1.2.2 Submit copies of all transport manifests, trip tickets and
disposal receipts for all asbestos waste materials removed
from the work area during the abatement process.
1.6.1.2.3 Submit daily, copies of worksite entry logbooks with infor-
mation on worker and visitor access.
1.6.1.2.4 Submit logs documenting filter changes on respirators, HEPA
vacuums, negative pressure ventilation units, and other
engineering controls.
1.6.1.2.5 Submit results of bulk material analysis and air sampling
data collected during the course of the abatement including
OSHi compliance air monitoring results.
1.6.1.2.6 Submit results of materials testing conducted during the
abatement for purposes of utilization during abatement
activities (e.g. testing of encapsulant for depth of penetra-
tion, testing of substitute materials for adherence to encap-
sulated surfaces)
1.6.1.2.7 Post in the clean room area of the worker decontamination
enclosure a list containing the names, addresses, and
telephone numbers of the Contractor, the Building Owner, the
Asbestos Project Officer, the General Superintendent, the Air
Sampling Professionals, the testing laboratory and any other
personnel who may be required to assist during abatement
activities (e.g. Safety Officer, Building Maintenance
Supervisor, Energy Conservation Officer).
1.6.2 Owner Shall
1.6.2.1 Prior to Commencement of Work:
1.6.2.1.1 Notify occupants of work areas that may be disrupted by the
abatement of project dates and requirements for relocation.
Arrangements must be made prior to start, for relocation of
desks, files, equipment and personal possessions to avoid
unauthorized access into the work area. (Note: Notification
of all building occupants and users is recommended in order
to prevent unnecessary or unauthorized access to the contami-
nated work area.)
1.6.2.1.2 Submit to the Contractor, results of pre-abatement air
sampling (if conducted) including location of samples, names
of the Air Sampling Professional, equipment utilized and
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method of analysis. (It is recommended that the Building
Owner take the responsibility for obtaining pre-abatement air
sampling.)
1.6.2.1.3 Document that Owner's employees who will be required to enter
the work area during abatement have received training equal
to that detailed in Part 4, Section 4.1. (This training may be
provided by the Contractor's or the Owner's training con-
sultant at the Owner's discretion.)
1.6.2.1.4 Provide to the Contractor information concerning access, shut-
down and protection requirements of certain equipment and
systems in the work area.
1.6.2.2 During Abatement
1.6.2.2.1 Submit to the Contractor, results of bulk material analysis
and air sampling data collected during the course of the
abatement. These sample results are for information only.
They serve only to monitor Contractor performance during the
project and shall not release the Contractor from any re-
sponsibility to sample for OSHA compliance.
1.7 Site Security
1.7.1 The work area is to be restricted only to authorized, trained, and
protected personnel. These may include the Contractor's employees,
employees of Subcontractors, Owner employees and representatives,
State and local inspectors and any other designated individuals. A
list of authorized personnel shall be established prior to job start
and posted in the clean room of the worker decontamination facility.
1.7.2 Entry into the work area by unauthorized individuals shall be reported
immediately to the Building Owner by the Contractor.
1.7.3 A log book shall be maintained in the clean-room area of the worker
decontamination system. Anyone who enters the work area must record
name, affiliation, time in, and time out for each entry.
1.7.4 Access to the work area shall be through a single worker decontamina-
tion system located at [designate a location at the worksite]. All
other means of access (doors, windows, hallways, etc.) shall be block-
ed or locked so as to prevent entry to or exit from the work area.
The only exceptions for this rule are the waste pass-out airlock which
shall be sealed except during the removal of containerized asbestos
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waste from the work area, and emergency exits in case of fire or
accident. Emergency exits shall not be locked from the inside,
however, they shall be sealed with polyethylene sheeting and tape
until needed.
1.7.5 Contractor should have control of site security during abatement
operations whenever possible, in order to protect work efforts and
equipment.
1.7.6 Contractor will have Owner's assistance in notifying building occupants
of impending activity and enforcement of restricted access by Owner's
employees.
1.8 Emergency Planning
1.8.1 Emergency planning shall be developed prior to abatement initiation
and agreed to by Contractor and Oner.
1.8.2 Biergency procedures shall be in written form and prominently posted in
the clean change area and equipment room of the worker decontamination
area. Everyone prior to entering the work area must read and sign
these procedures to acknowledge receipt and understanding of work site
layout, location of emergency exits and emergency procedures.
1.8.3 Emergency planning shall include written notification of police, fire
and emergency medical personnel of planned abatement activities, work
schedule and layout of work area, particularly barriers that may
affect response capabilities.
1.8.4 Emergency planning shall include considerations of fire, explosion,
toxic atmospheres, electrical hazards, slips, trips and falls, confined
spaces and heat related injury. Written procedures shall be developed
and employee training in procedures shall be provided.
1.8.5 Employees shall be trained -in evacuation procedures in the event of
workplace emergencies.
1.8.5.1 For non-life-threatening situations - employees injured or other-
wise incapacitated shall decontaminate following normal procedures
with assistance from fellow workers if necessary, before exiting
the workplace to obtain proper medical treatment.
1.8.5.2 For life-threatening injury or illness, worker decontamination
shall take least priority after measures to stabilize the injured
worker, remove him from the workplace and secure proper medical
treatment.
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1.8.6 Telephone numbers of all emergency response personnel shall be
j^rominently posted in the clean chanae area and equipment room, along
with the location of the nearest telephone.
1.9 Pre-Start Meeting
1.9.1 Wie successful Bidder shall attend a pre-start job meeting [insert
time, location^ Attending this meeting will be representatives of the
Owner and the Owner's agents along with testing/monitoring personnel
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PART 2 - Materials and Equipment
2.1 Materials
2.1.1 General (all abatement projects)
2.1.1.1 Deliver all materials in the original packages, containers or
bundles bearing the name of the manufacturer and the brand name
(where applicable).
2.1.1.2 Store all materials subject to damage off the ground, away from
wet or damp surfaces and under cover sufficient enough to prevent
damage or contamination. Replacement materials shall be stored
outside of the work area until abatement is completed.
2.1.1.3 Damaged, deteriorating or previously used materials shall not be
used and shall be removed from the worksite and disposed of pro-
perly.
2.1.1.4 Polyethylene sheeting for walls and stationary objects shall be a
minimum of 4-mil thick. For floors and all other uses sheeting of
at least 6-mil thickness shall be used in widths selected to
minimize the frequency of joints.
2.1.1.5 [Method of attaching polyethylene sheeting shall be agreed upon in
advance by the Contractor and Building Owner and selected to
minimize damage to equipment and surfaces. Method of attachment
may include any combination of duct tape or other waterproof tape,
furring strips, spray glue, staples, nails, screws or other
effective procedures capable of sealing adjacent sheets of
polyethlyene and capable of sealing polyethlylene to
dissimilar finished or unfinished surfaces under both wet and dry
conditions (including the use of amended water).]
2.1.1.6 Polyethlylene sheeting utilized for worker decontamination
enclosure shall be opaque white or black in color.
2.1.1.7 [Special materials required to protect objects in the work area
should be detailed (e.g. plywood over carpeting or hardwood
floors to prevent damage from scaffolds and falling material)].
2.1.1.8 Disposal bags shall be of 6 mil polyethylene, pre-printed with
labels as required by EPA regulation 40 CFR 61.152 (b)(i)(iv) or
OSHA requirement 29 CFR 1910.1001 (g)(2)(ii).
2.1.1.9 Disposal drums shall be metal or fiberboard with locking ring
tops.
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2.1.1.10 Stick-on labels as per EPA or OSHA requirements (see 2.1.2.7) for
disposal drums.
2.1.1.11 Warning signs as required by OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1001 (g)(i)(ii)
or as proposed in 29 CFR 190.1001 Asbestos Proposed Rule, Federal
Register and Vol. 49, Tuesday April 10, 1984 (recommended).
2.1.2 Removal
2.1.2.1 Surfactant (wetting agent) shall be a 50/50 mixture
of polyoxyethlylene ether and polyoxyethylene ester, or equiv-
alent, mixed in a proportion of 1 fluid ounce to 5 gallons of
water or as specified by manufacturer. (An equivalent surfactant
shall be understood to mean a material with a surface tension
of 29 dynes/on as tested in its properly mixed concentration,
using ASTM method D1331-56- "Surface and Interfacial Tension of
Solutions of Surface Active Agents.") Where work area
temperature may cause freezing of the amended water solution, the
addition of ethylene glycol in amounts sufficient, to prevent
freezing is permitted.
2.1.2.2 [Specify encapsulating agent to be applied to surfaces from which
asbestos containing material has been stripped.] (It will be
necessary to test the adhesion if new material is to be applied to
the encapsulated substrate. Sore manufacturers of replacement
materials will not provide a material warranty on products applied
over painted, encapsulated or otherwise coated surfaces. Without
proper testing, the material may "fail" and require replacement at
the Owner's expense.)
2.1.2.3 Replacement spray or .trowel-applied fire proofing must be [ULI]
[ULC] labeled and listed, asbestos-free [mineral/fiber] [oanenti-
tious] material to provide the degree of fire protection as
required by applicable building codes.
2.1.2.4 Replacement spray or trowel applied thermal insulation and
acoustical material shall be asbestos-free and provide performance
characteristics equal to or better than the original material, and
should be evaluated and selected by the Building Owner prior to
abatement. (See Section 2.1.2.2)
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2.1.3 Encapsulation
2.1.3.1 Encapsulation materials shall be [specify bridging or penetrating]
type and conform with the following characteristics:
2.1.3.1.1 Encapsulants should not be solvent-based or utilize a vehicle
(the liquid in which the solid parts of the encapsulant are
suspended) consisting of hydrocarbons.
2.1.3.1.2 Encapsulants shall not be flanmable.
2.1.3.1.3 Other [specify additional requirements] (Note: Encapsulation
may significantly alter the acoustical characteristics of a
material, the fire rating of a material, or the bond of the
material to the substrate These factors must be considered
during the abatement msthod selection process)
2.1.3.2 Additional materials as necessary for removal, as specified in
2.1.2
2.1.4 Enclosure
2.1.4.1 Enclosure materials shall be [specify] and conform with the
following characteristics.
2.1.4.1.1 The enclosures shall be constructed of materials such that
when the enclosure is completed there is limited potential for
impact damage to the enclosure and no potential for fiber
release.
2.1.4.1.2 Other [Specify, where fire, thermal or sound performance
related assemblies are required for enclosure projects. The
applicable [ASTM] [ANSI] [CSA] [ILI] [other] material,
installation, application, specifications or recommended
practice should be specified]
2.1.4.2 Additional materials as necessary for removal, as specified in
2.1.2
2.2 Equipment
2.2.1 General (all abatement projects)
2.2.1.1 A sufficient quantity of negative pressure ventilation units
equipped with HEPA filtration and operated in accordance with ANSI
29.2-79 (local exhaust ventilation requirements) and EPA guidance
document EPA 560/5-83-002 Guidance for Controlling Friable
Asbestos-Oontaining Materials in Buildings Appendix F:
Recommended Specifications and Operating Procedures For the Use of
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Negative Pressure Systems for Asbestos Abatement shall be
utilized so as to provide one workplace air change every 15
minutes.
To calculate total air flow requirement:
Total ft3/tain = Vol. of work area (in ft-).
15 min
To calculate the number of units needed for the abatement:
Number of units needed
[Total ft-/min)
[Capacity of unit in ft /tain]
If air-supplied respirators are utilized, estimate the volume of
supplied air and add to workplace air volume when calculating
ventilation requirements, for snail enclosures and glove bags, a
HEPA filtered vacuum system may be utilized to provide negative
air pressure.
2.2.1.2 Type "C" air supplied respirators in positive pressure or pressure
demand node with full facepieces and HEPA filtered disconnect pro-
tection are recommended by the U.S. EPA for all full shift
abatement work until the successful completion of final clearance
air monitoring. Powered air purifying respirators equipped with
HEPA filters and full facepieces or respirators with a higher
NIOSH assigned protection factor may be used for inspection or
repair work of less than 1 hour duration per day. A sufficient
supply of charged replacement batteries and filters and a flow
test meter shall be available in the clean change area for use
with powered air purifying respirators. Air purifying respirators
with dual high-efficiency (HEPA) filters may be utilized during
work area preparation activities. (See Section 3.3.2.3).
Air purifying respirators with dual high-efficiency (HEPA) filters
nay be utilized during work area preparation activities.
Spectacle kits and eyeglasses must be provided for employees who
wear glasses and who must wear full facepiece respirators.
Respirators shall be provided that have been tested and approved
by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health for
use in asbestos contaminated atmospheres.
NOTE: Type C respirators should be worn
through the completion of gross clean-
up. Cartridge respirators are usually
appropriate during final wipe-downs.
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2.2.1.3 (impressed air systems shall be designed to provide air volumes
and pressures to acconodate respirator manufacture's specificat-
ions . The compressed air systems shall have a receiver of
adequate capacity to allow escape of all respirator wearers from
contaminated areas in the event of compressor failure. Compress-
ors must meet the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.134 (d). Compress-
ors must have an in-line carbon monoxide monitor and periodic
inspection of the carbon nonoxide ncnitor must be evidenced.
Documentation of adequacy of compressed air systems/respiratory
protection system must be retained on site. This documentation
will include a list of compatible components with the maximum
number and type of respirators that may be used with the system.
Periodic testing of compressed air shall insure that systems
provide air of sufficient quality (Grade D breathing air as de-
cribed in Compressed Gas Association Commodity Specifications
G-7.1)
2.2.1.4 Full body disposable protective clothing, including head, body and
foot coverings (unless using footwear as described in 2.2.1.6)
p
consisting of material impenetrable by asbestos fibers (Tyvek
or equivalent) shall be provided to all workers and authorized
visitors in sizes adequate to acconodate movement without bearing.
2.2.1.5 Additional safety equipment (e.g. hard hats meeting the require-
ments of ANSI Standard Z89.1-1981, eye protection meeting the
requirements of ANSI Standard Z87.1-1979, safety shoes meeting the
requriements of ANSI Standard Z41.1-1967,disposable EVC gloves),
as necessary, shall be provided to all workers and authorized
visitors.
2.2.1.6 Non-skid footwear shall be provided to all abatement workers.
Disposable clothing shall be adequately sealed to the footwear to
prevent body contamination.
2.2.1.7 If launderable clothing is to be worn underneath disposable prot-
ective clothing, it shall be provided by the Contractor to all
abatement workers. (It is recommended that launerable clothing be
a unique, specific color to enable it to be distinquished from
general purpose blue, gray or black coveralls which are commonly
worn.) Laundering must occur in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.1001
(d) (4) (iii) however, (it is preferable that the following
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procedures be utilized:
2.2.1.7.1 Launderers must be trained in proper techniques for handling
asbestos contaminated clothing and provided with personal
protective equipment consisting of appropriate respirators and
disposable clothing for use when needed.
2.2.1.7.2 Machines used for laundering asbestos contaminated clothing
shall be isolated and restricted for such use.
2.2.1.7.3 Washers shall be equipped with filters to remove asbestos
fibers from discharged water (See Section 3.1.2.7)
2.2.1.7.4 Dryers shall be isolated and restricted for use with asbestos
contaminated fabrics and have HEPA fitered exhaust.
2.2.1.7.5 Machine maintenance shall be performed by protected individ-
uals (as per 2.2.1.7.1.)
2.2.1.8 A sufficient supply of disposable mops, rags and sponges for work
area decontamination shall be available.
2.2.2 Rianoval
2.2.2.1.A sufficient supply of scaffolds, ladders, lifts and hand tools
(e.g. scrapers, wire cutters, brushes, utility knives, wire saws,
etc.) shall be provided as needed.
2.2.2.2 Sprayers with pumps capable of providing 500 pounds per square
inch (psi) at the nozzle tip at a flow rate of 2 gallons per
minute for spraying amended water.
2.2.2.3 Rubber dustpans and rubber squeegees shall be provided for
cleanup.
2.2.2.4 Brushes utilized for removing loose asbestos containing
material shall have nylon or fiber bristles, not metal.
2.2.2.5 A sufficient supply of HEPA filtered vacuum systems shall be
available during cleanup.
2.2.3 Encapsulation
2.2.3.1 Encapsulants shall be sprayed using airless spray equipment.
Nozzle pressure should be adjustable within the 400 to 1500 psi
range. [This can be specified depending on the encapsulant's
viscosity and solids content. Tip size shall also be specified
based on manufacturer's recommendations]
2.2.3.2 Additional support equipment as needed, [specify when known]
(See Section 2.2.2)
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2.2.3.3 The nature of the encapsulant my effect the requirements for
respiratory protection. Vapors that may be given off during
encapsulant application must be taken into account when
selecting respirators, if types other than air supplied are used.
2.2.4 Enclosure
2.2.4.1 [Specify tools to be used to install enclosure supports and
enclosures.] Hand tools equipped with HEPA filtered local exhaust
ventilation shall be utilized during the installation of enclos-
ures and supports if there is any need to disturb asbestos
containing materials during this process. (As an alternative
asbestos material may be partially removed following proper
removal procedures prior to the installation of supports and
enclosures.)
2.2.4.2 Additional support equipment as needed, [specify when known (See
Section 2.2.2 and 2.2.3)]
2.3 Substitions
2.3.1 Approval Required:
2.3.1.1 The Contract is based on the materials, equipment and methods
described in the Contract Documents.
2.3.1.2 The Building Owner will consider proposals for substitutions of
materials, equipment and methods only when such proposals are
accompanied by full and complete technical data and all other in-
formation required by the Owner to evaluate the proposed
substitution.
2.3.1.3 Do not substitute materials, equipment or methods unless such
substitution has been specifically approved for this work by the
Building Oner.
2.3.2 "Or equal":
2.3.2.1 Where the phrase "or equal" or "or equal as approved by the
Owner" occurs in the Contract Document, do not assume that
materials, equipment or methods will be approved by the Owner
unless the item has been specifically approved for this work by
the Owner.
2.3.2.2 The decision of the Owner shall be final.
2.3.3 Separate substitute bids: Bidders may, if they wish, submit complete-
ly seperate bids using materials and methods other than those described
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iri the Contract Documents, provided that all substitutions are clearly
identified and described, and that the Bid in all other respects is in
accordance with the provisions of the Contract Documents.
2.3.4 Availability of specified items:
2.3.4.1. Verify prior to bidding that all specified items will be available
in time for installation during orderly and timely progress of the
work.
2.3.4.2 In the event that specified items will not be so available, notify
the CArfner prior to receipt of bids.
2.3.4.2. Costs of delays because of non-availability of specified items,
when such delays could have been avoided by the Contractor, will
be back-charged as necessary and shall not be borne by the Owner.
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Part 3 - Execution
3.1 Preparation
3.1.1 Work Areas
3.1.1.1 Post caution signs meeting the specifications of OSHA 29 CFR
1910.1001 (g) (1) (ii) at any location and approaches to a locat-
ion where airborne concentrations of asbestos may exceed ambient
background levels. Signs shall be posted at a distance sufficiently
far enough away from the work area to permit: an employee to read the
sign and take the necessary protective measures to avoid exposure.
Additional signs may need to be posted following construction of
workplace enclosure barriers
3.1.1.2 Shut down and lock out electric power to all work areas. Provide
temporary power and lighting. Insure safe installation (including
ground faulting) of temporary power sources and equipment by com-
pliance with all applicable electrical code requirements and OSHA
requirements for temporary electrical systems. All costs for
electric shall be paid for by the Owner.
3.1.1.3 Shut down and lock out all heating, cooling and air conditioning
system (HVAC) components that are in, supply or pass through the
work area. (Note: Interiors of existing duct work may require
decontamination. This may be done during the pre-cleaning phase of
operations before the ductwork is sealed off or during the final
cleaning phase prior to reengagement of the system. Appropriate
equipment and control measures shall be utilized to prevent con-
tamination of building spaces during this operation. Adequate
cleaning of ductwork may sometimes be accomplished by drawing high
volumes of air through the system using the HEPA filtered negative
pressure ventilation units.) Investigate the work area and agree on
preabatement condition with Building Owner. Seal all intake and
exhaust vents in the work area with tape and 6-mil polytheylene
Also seal any seams in system components that pass through the work
area. Rsnove all HVAC system filters and place in labeled 6-mil
polyethylene bags for staging and eventual disposal as asbestos
contaminated waste.
3.1.1.4 The Contractor shall provide sanitary facilities for abatement
personnel outside of the enclosed work area maintain them in a clean
This may not be feasible on all jobs.
See "Other Safety and Health Considerations"
for alternatives.
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and sanitary condition throughout the project.
3.1.1.5 The Owner will provide water for contruction purposes. Contractor
shall connect to existing Owner system.
3.1.1.6 Preclean all movable objects within the work area using a HEPA fil-
tered vacuum and/or wet cleaning methods as appropriate. After
cleaning, these objects shall be removed from the work area and
carefully stored in an uncontaminated location. (Carpeting, drapes,
clothing, upholstered furniture and other fabric items may be dis-
posed of as asbestos contaminated waste or cleaned as asbestos con-
taminated items utilizing HEPA vacuum techniques and off-premises
steam cleaning. Since adequate cleaning of severely contaminated
fabric is difficult, the Building Owner must carefully consider
whether this option is an appropriate one).
3.1.1.7 Preclean all fixed objects in the work area using HEPA filtered
vacuums and/or wet cleaning techniques as appropriate. Careful at-
tention must be paid to machinery behind grills or gratings where
.•access may be difficult but contamination significant. Also pay
particular attention to wall, floor and ceiling penetrations be-
hind fixed items. After precleaning, enclose fixed objects in 4 mil
jxslyethylene sheeting and seal securely in place with tape.
Objects (e.g. permanent fixtures, shelves, electronic equip-
ment, laboratory tables, sprinklers, alarm systems, closed circut TV
equipment and computer cables) which must remain in the work area
cind that require special ventilation or enclosure requirements
should be designated here along with specified means of protection.
(Contract the manufacturer for special protection requirements).
Control panels, gauges etc. in the work area may require Owner
access during abatement. These shall be designated and enclosures
constructed with access flaps sealed with waterproof tape.]
3.1.1.8 Ereclean all surfaces in the work area using HEPA filtered vacuums
and/or wet cleaning methods as appropriate. Do not use any methods
that would raise dust such as dry sweeping or vacuuming with
equipment not equipped with HEPA filters. Do not disturb asbestos
containing materials during the pre-cleaning phase.
3.1.1.9 Saal off all windows, doorways elevator openings, corridor
entrances, drains, ducts, grills, grates, diffusers, skylights and
any other openings between the work area and uncontaminated areas
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outside of the work area (including the outside of the building,
tunnels and crawl spaces) with 4 mil polyethylene sheeting and tape
(See Section 3.1.4 - Isolating work area from occupied areas)
3.1.1.10 Cover floors in the work area with polyethylene sheeting.
3.1.1.10.1 Floor shall be covered with two layers of 6 mil (minimum) sheet-
ing. (Floors requiring special protection should be specified.
Carpeting, hardwood flooring and tile floors nay be damaged by
leaks of water, ladder feet, scaffold wheels etc. Additional
layers of protection such as plywood, canvas dropcloths or extra
plastic sheeting may be required by the Owner.) Additional
layers of sheeting may be utilitzed as drop cloths to aid in
cleanup of bulk materials
3.1.1.10.2 Plastic shall be sized to minimize seams. If the floor area
necessitates seams, those on successive layers of sheeting shall
be staggered to reduce the potential for water to penetrate to
the flooring material. A distance of at least 6. feet between
seams is sufficient. Do not locate any seams at wall/floor
joints.
3.1.1.10.3 Floor sheeting shall extend at least 12" up the sidewalls of the
work area.
3.1.1.10.4 Sheeting shall be installed in a fashion so as to prevent slip-
age between successive layers of material. (Vinyl sheeting may
be used for improved traction on floors.)
3.1.1.11 Cover walls in the work area with polyethylene sheeting. Walls
that are non=porous and will not be damaged by water, sufactant,
encapsulate do not necessarily need protection. Tney can be
decontaminated using HEPA vacuums and wet cleaning techniques.
Walls with motor joints (e.g. tile) are considered porous. In
addition, openings through these walls to uncontaminated areas of
the building musst be sealed as described in Section 3.1.1.9.
3.1.1.11.1 Walls shall be covered with two layers of 4 mil polyethylene
sheeting.
3.1.1.11.2 Plastic shall be sized to minimize seams. Seams shall be
staggered and separated by a distance of at least 6 feet.
3.1.1.11.3 Wall sheeting shall overlap floor sheeting by at least 12
inches beyond the wall/floor joint to provide a better seal
against water damage and for negative pressure.
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3.1.1.11.Wall sheeting shall be secured adequately to prevent it from
falling away from the walls. This will require additional
support/attachment when negative pressure ventilation systems are
utilized.
3.1.2 Worker decontamination enclosure systems.
3.1.2.1 Worker decontamination enclosure systems shall be provided at
all locations where workers will enter or exit the work area.
One system at a single location for each contained work over is
preferred. These systems may consist of existing rooms outside
of the work area, if the layout is appropriate, that can be
enclosed in plastic sheeting and are accessible from the work
area. When this situation does not exist, enclosure systems
may be constructed out of metal, wood or plastic support as
appropriate.
3.1.2.2 Plans for construction, including materials and layout, shall be
submitted as shopdrawings and approved, in writing by the Building
Owner prior to work initiation. Worker decontamination enclosure
systems constructed at the worksite shall utilize 6 mil opaque
black or white polyethylene sheeting or other acceptable materials
for privacy. Detailed descriptions of portable, pre-fabricated
units, if used, must be submitted for the Building Owner's
approval. Plans must include floor plan (in accordance with
3.1.2.3) with dimensions, materials, size, thickness, plurrbinq ana
electrical utilities.
3.1.2.3 The worker decontamination enclosure system shall consist of at
leiast a clean room, a shower room, and an equipment room, each
s«!parated from each other and from the work area by airlocks.
3.1.2.4 Entry to and exit from all airlocks and decontarination ^closure
system chambers shall be through curtained doorways consisting of
two sheets of overlapping polyethylene sheeting. One sheet shall
be secured at the top and left side, the other sheet at the top
and right side. Both sheets shall have weights attached to the
bottom to insure that they hang straight and maintain a seal over
the doorway when not in use. Doorway designs, providing equivil-
ant protection and acceptable to the Building Owner may be
utilized.
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3.1.2.5 Access between any two rooms in the decontamination enclosure
system shall be through an airlock with at least 3 feet separating
each curtained doorway. Pathways into (from clean to contaminat-
ed) and out from (contaminated to clean) the work area shall be
clearly designated
3.1.2.6 Clean room shall be sized to adequately accomodate the work
crew. Benches shall be provided as well as hooks for hanging
up street clothes, (lockers may be provided for valuables,
however, workers may be requested to secure valuable? in
their oars). Shelves for storing respirators shall also be
provided in this area. Clean work clothes (if required under
disposables), clean disposable clothing, replacement filters for
respirators, towels and other necessary items shall be provided in
adequate supply at the clean room. A location for postings shall
also be provided in this area. Whenever possible, a lockable door
shall be used to permit access into the clean room from outside
the work area. Lighting, heat and electricity shall be provided
as necessary for comfort. This space shall not be used for
storage of tools equipment or materials, (except as specifically)
designated) or as office space.
3.1.2.7 Shower room shall contain one or more showers as necessary to ade-
quately accomodate workers. Each shower head shall be supplied
with hot and cold water adjustable at the tap. The shower en-
closure shall be constructed to ensure against leakage of any
kind. An adequate supply of soap, shampoo and towels shall be
supplied by the Contractor and available at all times.
Shower water shall be drained, collected and filtered
through a system with at least 0.5-1.0 micron particle size
collection capability. (Note: A system containing a series of
several filters with progressively smaller pore sizes is recom-
mended to avoid rapid clogging of filtration system by large
particles.)
3.1.2.8 The equipment room shall be used for storage of equipment and
tools at the end of a shift after they have been decontaminated
using a HEPA filtered vacuum and/or wet cleaning techniques as
appropriate. Replacement filters (in sealed containers until
used) for HEPA vacuums and negative pressure ventilation
Filtration through 0.5 - 1.0 micron filters
can only be achieved with extreme difficulty.
Some states require 5 micron final filtra-
tion. Filtration of shower water is dis-
cussed in greater detail elsewhere.
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equipment, extra tools, containers of surfactant and other
materials and equipment that may be requireJ during the abatement
imy also be stored here as needed. A walk-off pan (a small
children's swimming pool or equivilant filled with water shall be
located in the work area just outside the equipment room for
workers to clean off foot coverings after leaving the work area
and prevent excessive contamination of the worker decontamination
enclosure system. A drum lined with a labeled 6 mil polyethylene
bag for collection of disposable clothing shall be located in
thi^ room. Contaminated footwear (e.g. rubber boots, other
reusable footwear) shall be stored in this area for reuse the
following workday.
3.1.3 Haste Container pass-out airlock (usually required only for large
jobs) and emergency exits.
3.1.3.1 The waste container pass-out airlock shall be constructed at some
location away from the worker decontamination enclosure system.
Wherever possible, this shall be located where there is
direct access from the work area to the outside of the building,
3.1.3.2 This airlock system shall consist of an airlock, a container
staging area, and another airlock with access to outside the work
area.
3.1.3.3 The waste container pass-out airlock shall be constructed in
similar fashion to the worker decontamination enclosure system
using similar materials and airlock and curtain doorway designs.
3.1.3.4 This airlock system shall not be used to enter or exit the work-
site.
3.1.3.5 Emergency exits shall be established and clearly marked with duct
tape arrows or other effective designations to permit easy location
from anywhere within the work area. They shall be secured to
prevent access from uncontaminated areas and still permit emergency
exiting. These exits shall be properly sealed with polythylene
sheeting which can be cut to permit egress if needed. These exits
may be the worker decontamination enclosure, the waste pass-out
airlock and/or other alternative exits satisfactory to fire
officials.
3.1.4 Isolation of the work area from occupied areas of the building
[Building owner must clearly identify all areas that will be
occupied].
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3.1.4.1 TVie contaminated work area shall be separated from uncontaminated,
occupied areas of the building by the construction of air tight
barriers.
3.1.4.2 Walls shall be constructed of wood or metal framing to support
barriers in all openings larger than 4' x 8".
3.1.4.3 A sheathing material -(plywood, drywall) of at least 3/8" thickness
shall be applied to work side of barrier.
3.1.4.4 Cover both sides of partition with a double layer of 6 mil poly-
ethylene sheeting with staggered joints and seal in place.
3.1.4.5 Caulk edges of partition at floor, ceiling, walls and fixtures to
form an air tight seal.
3.1.5 Maintenance of workplace barriers and worker decontamination enclos-
ure systems.
3.1.5.1 Following completion of the construction of all polythylene
barriers and decontamination system enclosures, allow overnight
settling to insure that barriers will remain intact and secured
to walls and fixtures before beginning actual abatement
activities.
3.1.5.2 All polyethylene barriers inside the workplace, in the worker
decontamination enclosure system, in the waste container pass-out
airlock and at partitions constructed to isolate the work area
from occupied areas shall be inspected at least twice daily, prior
to the start of each day's abatement activities and following the
completion of the day's abatement activities. Document
inspections and observations in the daily project log.
3.1.5.3 Damage and defects in the enclosure system are to be repaired
immediately upon discovery.
3.1.5.4 Use smoke tubes to test the effectiveness of the barrier system
when directed by Building Owner.
3.1.5.5 At any time during the abatement activities after barriers have
been erected, if visible material is observed outside of the work
area or if damage occurs to barriers, work shall immediately stop,
repairs be made to barriers, and debris/residue cleaned up using
appropriate HEPA vacuuming and wet mopping procedures.
3.1.5.6 If air samples collected outside of the work area during abatement
activities indicate airborne fiber concentrations greater than
0.01 f/cc or pre-measured background levels (whichever is lower)•
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work shall immediately stop for inspection and repair of barriers.
Cleanup of surfaces outside of the work area using HEPA vacuums
or wet cleaning techniques may be necessary.
3.1.5.7 Install and initiate operation of negative pressure ventilation
equipment as needed to provide one air change in the work area
every 15 minutes. (See Section 2.2.1.1) Openings made in
the enclosure system to accomodate these units shall be made air-
tight with tape and/or caulking as needed. If more than one unit
is installed, they should be turned on one at a time, checking the
integrity of wall barriers for secure attachment and need for
additional reinforcement. Insure that adequate power supply is
available to satisfy the requirements of the ventilating units.
Negative pressure ventilation units shall be exhausted to the
outside of the building whenever feasible. Tney shall not be
exhausted into occupied areas of the building. Twelve inch
extension ducting shall be used to reach from the work area to the
outside when required. Careful installation, air monitoring and
daily inspections shall be done to insure that the ducting does
not release fibers into uncontaminated building areas.
3.1.7 Once constructed and reinforced as necessary, with negative pressure
ventilation units in operation as required, test enclosure for leak-
age utilizing stroke tubes. Repair or reconstruct as needed.
3.1.8 Clearly identify and maintain emergency and fire exits from the work
area.
3.1.9 Remove, clean and enclose in polyethylene the ceiling mounted
objects such as lights and other items that may interfere with the
abatement process and were not previously cleaned and sealed off.
Utilize localized spraying of amdended water and/or HEPA vacuums to
reduce fiber dispersal during the removal of these fixtures.
3.1.10 Removal of building structural components
3.1.10.1 After isolation of work area as described in previous sections
and initiation of negative pressure ventilation, remove ceiling
[tiles] [panels] within the work area carefully. If panels are
to be reused, vacuum them with a HEPA filtered vacuum cleaner and
carefully damp sponge and wrap cleaned [tiles] [panels] in 4 mil
polyethylene sheeting and seal with tape. Store as designated by
building owner (preferably outside of the work area). If [tiles]
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[panels] are to be discarded it is not necessary to clean them,
but wrap in a similar fashion and stage for disposal in the waste
container pass-out airlock. (Disposal is preferred over re-use
when tiles or panals are composed of porus materials because of
difficulties in adequate cleaning.)
3.1.10.2 Where suspended ceiling T-grid components must be removed to
perform the abatement, HEPA vacuum and wet-sponge each piece after
removal from hangers. Wrap clean grid pieces in 4-mil polyethy-
lene sheeting and seal with tape. Store as designated by Building
Owner or in waste staging area if designated for disposal.
3.1.10.3 When removal of ceiling grid suspension system is not necessary
for accessibility, to the asbestos containing materials leave the
system in place and clean properly following completion of
abatement.
3.1.10.4 [Ranove plaster/drywall ceilings including lathe, furring channel
system, wire mesh, ties, clips, screws, nails and other access-
ory items as necessary and dispose of as asbestos contaminated
waste material. Plaster ceiling may actually contain asbestos.
They should be tested.) As work progresses, spray ceiling
materials and debris with amended water to keep wet until
containerized for disposal.]
3.1.11 Commencement of work shall not occur until:
3.1.11.1 Enclosure systems have been constructed and tested
3.1.11.2 Negative pressure ventilation systems are functioning adequately
3.1.11.3 All pre-abatement submissions, notifications, postings and per-
mits have been provided and are satisfactory to the Building Owner
(See Section 1.6)
3.1.11.4 All equipment for abatement, clean-up and disposal are on hand
3.1.11.5 All worker training [and certification] is completed
3.1.11.6 Contractor receives written permission from Building Owner to com-
mence abatement.
3.1.12 Alternative Procedures
3.1.12.1 Procedures described in this specification are to be utilized at
all times.
3.1.12.2 If specified procedures cannot be utilized, a request must be made
in writing to the Building Owner providing details of the prob-
lem encountered and recommended alternatives
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3.1.12.3 Alternative procedures shall provide equivalent or greater pro-
tection than procedures that they replace.
3.1.12.4 Any alternative procedure must be approved in writing by the
Building Omer prior to implementation.
3.2 Workplace Bitry and Exit Procedures
3.2.1 Personnel entry and exit
3.2.1.1 All workers and authorized personnel shall enter the work area
through the worker decontamination enclosure system
3.2.1.2 All personnel who enter the work area must sign the entry log,
located in the clean room, upon entry and exit.
3.2.1.3 All personnel, before entering the work area, shall read and be
familiar with all posted regulations, personal protection require-
ments (including workplace entry and exit procedures) and
energency procedures. A sign-off sheet shall be used to
acknowledge that these have been reviewed and understood by
all personnel prior to entry.
3.2.1.-1 All personnel shall proceed first to the clean room, remove all
street clothes and appropriately don respiratory protection (as
deemed adequate for the job conditions) and launderable and/or
disposable coveralls, head covering and foot covering. Hard
hats, eye protection and gloves shall also be utilized if
required. Clean respirators and protective clothing shall be
provided and utilized by each person for each separate entry
into the work area.
3.2.1.5 Personnel wearing designated personal protective equipment shall
proceed from the clean room through the shower room and equipment
room to the main work area.
3.2.1.6 Before leaving the work area all personnel shall remove gross
contamination from the outside of respirators and protective
clothing by brushing and/or wet wiping procedures. (Small HEPA
vacuums with brush attachments may be utilized for this purpose,
however, larger machines may tear the suits) Each person shall
clean bottoms of protective footwear in the walk-off pan just
prior to entering the equipment room.
3.2.1.7 Personnel shall proceed to equipment room where they remove all
protective equipment except respirators. Deposit disposable [and
launderable] clothing into appropriately labeled containers for
disposal [and laundering]
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3.2.1.8 Reusable, contaminated footwear shall be stored in the equipment
room when not in use in the work area. Upon completion of abate-
ment it shall be disposed of as asbestos contaminated waste.
(rubber boots may be decontaminated at the oonpletion of the
abatement for reuse)
3.2.1.9 Still wearing respirators, personnel shall proceed to the shower
area, clean the outside of the respirators and the exposed face
area under running water prior to removal of respirator and show-
er and shampoo to remove residual asbestos contamination.
Various types of respirators will requrie slight modification of
these procedures. An airline respirator with HEPA filtered dis-
connect protection may be disconnected in the equipment room and
work into the shower. A powered air-purifying respirator face-
piece will have to be disconneted formt he Filter/power pack
assembly which is not waterproof, upon entering the shower. A
dual cartridge respirator may be worn into the shower. Cartridges
must be/(placed for each new entry into the work area.
3.2.1.10 After showering and drying off, proceed to the clean room and don
clean disposable [and/or launderable] clothing if there will be
later re-entry into the work area or street clothes if it is the
end of the work shift.
3.2.1.11 These procedures shall be posted in the clean room and equipment
room.
3.2.2 Waste container pass-out procedures
3.2.2.1 Asbestos contaminated waste that has been containerized shall be
transported out of the work area through the waste container
pass-out airlock [or through the worker decontamination enclosure
if a separate airlock has not been constructed]
3.2.2.2 Waste pass-out procedures shall utilize two teams of workers, an
"inside" team and an "outside" team.
3.2.2.3 The inside team wearing appropriate protective clothing and res-
pirators for inside the work area shall clean the outside, includ-
ing bottoms, of properly labeled containers (bags, drums, or
wrapped components) using HEPA vacuums and wet wiping techniques
and transport them into the waste container pass-out airlock. No
worker from the inside team shall further exit the work area
through this airlock .
DO NOT disconnect the powerpack since the
PAPR respirator will not provide any
protection. Hand the powerpack to another
person in the airlock, on the equipment •
room side of the shower. Keep motor oper-
ating unitl shower is complete. Have second
person clean (wipe off) powerpack, then
remove respirator.
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3.2.2.4 The outside team, wearing a different oolor protective clothing
and appropriately assigned respirators, shall enter the airlock
from outside the work area, enclose the drums in clean,
labeled, 6 mil polyethylene bags and remove them from the airlock
to the outside. No worker from the outside team shall further
enter the
work area through this airlock.
3.2.2.5 The exit from this airlock shall be secured to prevent unauthor-
ized entry.
3.3 Personnel Protection Requirements
3.3.1 Training
3.3.1.1 Prior to commencement of abatement activities all personnel who will
be required to enter the work area or handle containerized asbestos
containing materials must have received adequate training in
accordance with Part 4 Section 4'.1 of this document.
3.3.1.2 Special on-site training on equipment and procedures unique to
this job site shall be performed as required.
3.3.1.3 Training in emergency response and evacuation procedures shall
be provided
3.3.2 Respiratory Protection
3.3.2.1 All respiratory protection shall be provided to workers in accord-
ance with the submitted written respiratory protection program,
whicn includes all items in OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134 (b) (1-11). This
program shall be posted in the clean room of the worker decontam-
ination enclosure system
3.3.2.2 Workers shall be provided with personally issued, individually id-
entified (marked with waterproof designations) respirators.
3.3.2.3 Respirators shall be selected that meet the following level of
protection requirements:
Each Building Offier (in conjunction with an industrial nygienist)
must decide on the levels of respiratory protection that will be
required for asbestos abatement activities. Those level and
specific requirements should be inserted here. (The U.S. EPA
recomnends that Type "C" air-supplied respirators in positive
pressure or pressure demand mode with full facepieces and HEPA
filtered disconnect protection be provided to all full-shift
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asbestos abatement workers. Powered air-purifying respirators
equipped with HEPA filtration and full facepieces nay be utilized
for inspection or repair work of less than one (1) hour duration.
(See Section 2.2.1.2)
Implementation Suggestions:
Ite use of engineering controls such as negative pressure venti-
lation units and HEPA vacuums and good work practices such as the
wetting of asbestos containing material prior to abatement (when
applicable), misting the work area to help fibers settle out,
removal in snail sections, use of glove bags and proper clean-up
and oontainerization all help to reduce airborne fiber levels in
the work area. A properly designed air monitoring program,
implemented by a qualified air sampling professional and analytical
laboratory, may support the use of respiratory protective devices
that provide a lower factor of protection to the workers than
air supplied respirators, for some abatement activities. Safety
problems associated with the use of airline systems and time and
financial constraints may be reduced through the use of alternative
types of respiratory protection. It is imperative, however, that
adequate air monitoring of fiber levels and a well designed
respriatory protection program (in accordance with 29 CTR 1910.134)
be implemented. Key points of the respirator program include
proper selection of respirator type and size, training of personnel
in the proper inspection, donning, use, cleaning and maintenance
procedures for the respirator selected including their use
limitations and a good fitting and fit testing program to provide
proper protection. Single-use disposable respirators are not
recommended for use during any asbestos abatement activities.
Negative-pressure dual cartridge respirators shall be equipped with
high efficiency filters and exhalation and inhalation valves to
permit the performance of positive and negative pressure fit
Oiecks.)
3.3.2.4 Fit testing
3.3.2.4.1 Workers must perform positive and negative air pressure fit tests
each time a respirator is put on, whenever the respirator design
As a rule of thumb, cartridge respirators
are usually adequate for prepping and
final clean-up. Air supplied respirators
are usually adequate during removal and
gross clean-up.
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so permits. Powered air-purifying respirators shall be tested
for adequate flow as specified by the manufacturer.
3.3.2.4.2 Workers shall be given a qualitative fit test in accordance with
procedures detailed in the C6HA Lead Standard (29 CFR 1910.1025,
Appendix D, Qualitative Fit Test Protocols) for all respirators to
be used on this abatement project. An appropriately administered
quantitative fit test may be substituted for the qualitative fit
test.
3.3.2.4.3 Documentation of adequate respirator fit must be provided to the
Building Cwner.
3.3.2.5 No one wearing a beard shall be permitted to don a respirator and
enter the work area.
3.3.2.6 Additional respirators (mimimum of 2 of each type) and training
on their donning and use must be available at the work site for
authorized visitors who may be required to enter the work area.
3.3.3 Protective Clothing
3.3.3.1 Disposable clothing including head, foot and full body protect-
ion shall be provided in sufficient quantities and adequate sizes
for all workers and authorized visitors.
3.3.3.2 [Launderable clothing, if required, shall be provided in suffi-
cient quantities and adequate sizes for all workers and author-
ized visitors].
3.3.3.3 Hard hats, protective eyewear, gloves, rubber boots and/or other
footwear shall be provided as required for workers and authorized
visitors. Safety shoes may be required for some activities.
3.4 Removal Procedures
3.4.1 Clean and isolate the work area in accordance with Section 3.1
3.4.2 Wet all asbestos containing material with an amended water solution
using equipment capable of providing a fine spray mist, in order to
reduce airborne fiber concentrations when the material is disturbed.
Saturate the material to the substrate, however, do not allow
excessive water to accumulate in the work area. Keep all removed
material wet enough to prevent fiber release until it can be con-
tainerized for disposal. If work area temperatures are below 32°F
and amended water is subject to freezing, dry removal permits and
procedures must be utilized (See 2.1.2.1). Maintain a high
humidity in the work area by misting or spraying to assist in fiber
Ethylene glycol added to the amended
water will permit wetting the material
during freezing conditions.
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settling and reduce airborne concentrations. Wetting procedures are
not equally effective on all types of asbestos containing materials
but, shall none-the-less be used in all oases.
3.4.3 Saturated asbestos containing material shall be removed in manageable
sections. Removed material should be containerized before moving to
a new location for continuance of work. Surrounding areas shall be
pariodocally sprayed and maintained in a vet condition until visible
material is cleaned up.
3.4.4 Material removed from building structures or components shall not be
dropped or thrown to the floor. Material should be removed as intact
sections or components whenever possible and carefully lowered to
the floor. If this cannot be done for materials greater than 50 feet
above the floor, a dust-tight chute shall be constructed to trans-
port the material to containers on the floor or the material may be
containerized at elevated levels (e.g. on scaffolds) and carefully
lowered to the ground by mechanical means. For materials between 15
and 50 feet above the ground they may be containerized at elevated
levels or dropped onto inclined chutes or scaffolding for subsequent
collection and containerization.
3.4.5 Containers (6-mil polyethylene bags or drums) shall be sealed when
full. (Wet material can be exceedingly heavy. Double bagging of
waste material usually necessary. A determination of need for single
or double bags must be made early in the abatement process and
agreed to by the Building OJner.) Bags shall not be overfilled.
They should be securely sealed to prevent accidental opening and
leakage by tying tops of bags in an overhand knot or by taping in
gooseneck fashion. Do not seal bags with wire or cord. (Bags may be
placed in drums for staging and transportation to the lane.ill. Bags
shall be decontaminated on exterior surfaces by wet cleaning and HEPA
vacuuming before being placed in clean drums and sealed with locking
ring tops).
3.4.6 Large components removed intact may be wrapped in 2 layers of 6-mil
polyethylene sheeting secured with tape for transport to the
landfill.
3.4.7 Asbestos containing waste with sharp-edged components (e.g nails,
screws, metal lath, tin sheeting) will tear the polyethylene bags
and sheeting and shall be placed into drums for disposal.
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3.4.8 After completion of all stripping work, surfaces from which asbestos
containing materials nave been removed shall be wet brushed and
sponged or cleaned by some equivalent method to remove all visible
residue
3.4.9 Clean-up shall proceed in accordance with Section 3.7
3.4.10 After the work area has been rendered free of visible residues, a
thin coat of a satisfactory encapsulating agent shall be applied to
all surfaces in the work area including structural members, building
components and plastic sheeting on walls, floors and covering non-
ranovable items, to seal in non-visible residue. (Note: 1) High
temperature components such as boilers and pipes may not permit the
applicaiton of some encapsulants. 2) If insulation or acoustical
materials are to be reapplied to the abated area, be certain that the
encapsulant selected will permit good adhesion to the substrate. A
small area should be tested before application)
3.4.11 Special circumstances (e.g. live electrical equipment, high
amosite content of material, materials previously coated with an en-
capsulant or paint) may prohibit the adequate use of wet methods to
reduce fiber concentrations. For these situations, a dry removal
may be required. The contractor will have to acquire of special
permits, different from those mentioned herein from the NESHAP
enforcement agency.
3.5 Encapsulation Procedures
3.5.1 Clean and isolate the work area in accordance with section 3.1
3.5.2 Repair damaged and missing areas of existing [sprayed] [troweled]
materials with non-asbestos containing subsitutes [specify]. Mater-
ial must adhere adequately to existing surfaces and provide an
adequate base for application of encapsulating agents. Filler
material shall be applied in accordance with manufacturer's
recommended specifications.
3.5.3 Remove loose or hanging asbestos containing materials in accordance
with the requirements of Section 3.4.
3.5.4 Bridging-type encapsulants
3.5.4.1 Apply bridging-type encapsulants to provide [ ] inches of min-
imum dry film thickness over sprayed asbestos surfaces
3.5.4.2 When using a bridging-type encapsulant use a different color
for each coat. Use [color] for final ooat.
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3.5.5 Penetrating-type encapsulants
3.5.5.1 Apply penetrating-type encapsulant to penetrate existing spray-
ed asbestos materials to a depth of [ ] inches.
3.5.5.2 Apply penetrating-type encapsulant to penetrate existing sprayed
asbestos materials uniformly to substrate
3.5.5.3 During treatment with a penetrating-type encapsulant, the
Contractor shall remove selected random core samples of the
asbestos-containing materials in the presence of the Owner to
check the depth of penetration.
3.5.6 Apply encapsulants using airless spray equipment (See Section 2.2.1.9
Equipment - Encapsulation)
3.5.7 Clean-up shall be in accordance with Section 3.7
3.5.8 Encapsulated asbestos containing materials shall be designated app-
ropriately [specify format - labels, signs or color codes and
frequency location of indicators] in order to warn building
maintenance personel in the event that they are required to disturb
the materials.
3.6 Enclosure Procedures
3.6.1 Clean and isolate the work area in accordance with Section 3.1
3.6.2 Spray areas that will be disturbed during the installation of hangers
or other support/framing materials for the enclosure with water con-
taining the specified surfactant. Keep these areas damp to reduce
airborne fiber concentrations.
3.6.3 Remove loose or hanging asbestos containing materials in accordance
with the requirements of Section 3.4.
3.6.4 After installation of hangers and other fixing devices and before in-
stallation of enclosure, repair damaged areas of fireproofing/ther-
mal insulation materials as required using a non-asbestos containing
replacement material. Prepare surfaces and apply replacement mater-
ial in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations.
3.6.5 [Specify enclosure procedures] and include the following require-
ments:
3.6.5.1 Use hand tools equipped with HEPA filtered local exhaust ventilation
to drill, cut into or otherwise disturb asbestos containing mater-
ials during the installation of support systems for the enclosures.
(Alternatively, these areas of material could be removed prior to
installation of supports.)
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3.6.5.2 Use materials that are impact resistent and that will provide an
air-tight barrier once construction is complete.
3.6.5.3 Lower utilities as necessary and reinstall in a manner which permits
proper utilization and does not disturb the intergrity of the en-
closures. Utility maintenance should not require the enclosure to
be opened or disturbed. (If it does, an alternative abatement
strategy is indicated)
3.6.7 Enclosed asbestos containing materials shall be designated approp-
riately [Specify format - sign, label, color code and frequency/lo-
cation of indicators] in order to warn building maintenance personnel
in the event that they are required to disturb the enclosure.
3.7 Clean-up Procedure
3.7.1 Remove and containerize all visible accumulations of asbestos con-
taining material and asbestos contaminated debris utilizing rubber
dust pans and rubber squeegees to move material around. Do not use
metal shovels to pick up or -move accumulated waste. Special care
shall be taken to minimize damage to floor sheeting.
3.7.2 Wet clean all surfaces in the work area using rags, mops and sponges
as appropriat* . (Note: Sane HEPA vacuums might not be wet-dry
vacuums. 1t> pick up excess water and gross wet debris, a wet-dry
shop vacuum may be used. This will be contaminated and require
cleaning prior to removal from the work area.)
3.7.3 Remove the cleaned outer layer of plastic sheeting from walls and
floors. Windows, doors, HVAC system vents and all other openings
shall remain sealed. The negative pressure ventilation units shall
remain in continuous operation. Decontamination enclosure systems
shall remain in place and be utilized.
3.7.4 After cleaning the work area, wait at least 24 hours to allow fibers
to settle and HEPA vacuum and wet clean all objects and surfaces in
the work area again.
3.7.5 Ranove all containerized waste from the work area and waste container
pass-out airlock.
3.7.6 Decontaminate all tools and equipment and remove at the appropriate
time in the cleaning sequence.
3.7.7 Inspect the work area for visible residue. If any accumulation of
residue is observed, it will be assumed to be asbestos and the 24
hour settling period/cleaning cycle repeated.
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3.7.8 The work area shall be cleaned until it is in compliance with State
and Local requirements and any more stringent criteria agreed upon by
the Contractor and Owner prior to initiation of abatement activities
»_;•-„;, c-t",~,ii^ KO ^r, t-ho form nf inQusl in.Qrvrl-inns anri airborne
fiber concentrations). Additional cleaning cycles shall be provided,
as necessary, at no cost to the Building Owner until these criteria
have been met.
3.7.9 Following the satisfactory completion of clearance air monitoring
remaining barriers may be removed and properly disposed of. A final
visual inspection by the Owner shall insure that no contamination
remains in the work area. Unsatisfactory conditions may require
addition cleaning and air monitoring. (See section 3.10 Reestablish-
ment of the Work Area).
3.8 clearance Air Monitoring
3.8.1 Following the completion of clean-up operations, the Contractor
shall notify the Building Owner that work areas are ready for clear-
ance air monitoring.
3.8.2 The Owner shall then arrange for an Air Monitoring Professional to
sample the air in the work area for airborne fiber concentrations.
3.8.3 (Note: The use of TEW (Transmission Electron Microscopy) is highly
recommended for clearance air monitoring. Availability of this
analytical service may be limited, however, and turn around time for
sample analysis may be significantly longer than the NIOSH methods.)
The air sampling shall otherwise be conducted using sampling pumps
calibrated at a flow rate of at least two and not more than 4 liters
par minute using collection madia and procedures in accordance with
NIOSH Standard Analytical Method P&CAM 239 or 7400, as
available. Air volumes shall be sufficient to provide reliable
results down to a concentration of 0.01 fibers par cubic centimeter
of air (f/cc) or lower. (Minimum air volumes of 3000 liters shall
be collected) for P&CAM 239 and 1000 liters for method 7400. Volume
reouirements for electrom microscooe methods should be discussed with
the analytical laboratory)
3.8.4 [The number of samples that are required and the specific locations
where they shall be taken should be established by the Building Owner
in conjunction with an industrial hygienist before abatement activity
begins.]
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3.8.5 Aggressive sampling shall be performed with [specify number] port-
able fans circulating air in the work area bo simulate actual use
conditions. Negative pressure ventilation units shall not be
utilized for this purpose.
3.8.6 Air Samples shall be analyzed by [Phase Contrast Microscopy] (See
Part 4 Section 4.5 laboratory Services) [Transmission Electron
Microscopy]
3.8.7 All samples at all locations shall indicate concentrations of air-
borne fibers less than 0.01 f/cc for release of the work area.
3.8.8 Areas exceeding this level shall be recleaned using procedures in
Section 3.7 and retested until satisfactory levels are obtained.
(Implementations Suggestions:
The following is exerpted from A Review of the Scientific Basis for
EPA: School Asbestos Hazard Program with Recommendations to State
Health Officials. Published by the centers for Disease Control in
October, 1984).
When air samples are collected after an asbestos abatement, the
"action level" should conform with a policy of lowest feasible level.
The concept of an environmental "action level" is not the same as
that of a permissible exposrue limit that is precisely monitored for
compliance with regulatory standards. As used here it is consistent
with a policy of recommending that asbestos exposures be reduced to
the lowest feasible level. It is readily measured by the NIOSH
#7400 for asbestos in air; and it should be helpful to those who must
make risk management decisions when the general public is
potentially exposed to asbestos.
An "action level" of 0.01 f/c.c. may be useful as a guidelines for
monitoring a building with potentially hazardous asbestos surfaces,
as part of a comprehensive program or during abatement work,
maintenance, etc. It is not a recommended "occupancy" or "safe"
level.
Using the NIOSH Method #7400 including modified rules for counting
only fibers with aspect ratios of 5:1 or more in a 1,000 liter air
sample will permit detection and quantification of about 0.01 f/c.c.
if a coefficient of variation of 25% is considered acceptable for
risk-nanagenent decisions. This variability is reasonable, since
the conversion factor used to convert mass concentration to fiber
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concentrations in environmental risk assessments has such a large
uncertainity factor.
3.9 Disposal Procedures
3.9.1 As the work progresses, to prevent exceeding available storage
capacity on site, sealed and labeled containers of asbestos contain-
ing waste shall be removed and transported to the prearranged dis-
posal location.
3.9.2 Disposal must occur at an authorized site in accordance with regula-
tory requirements of NESHAP and applicable State and Local guidelines
and regulations.
3.9.3 All dump receipts, trip tickets, transportation manifests or other
documantation of disposal shall be delivered to the Building Owner
for his records. A recommended recordkeeping format utilizes a chain
of-custody form which includes the names and addresses of the
Generator (Building Owner), Contractor, pickup site, and disposal
site, the estimated quantity of the asbestos waste and the type
of containers used. The form should be signed by the Generator, the
Contractor, and the Disposal Site Operator, as the responsibility for
the material changes hands. If a separate hauler is etnployed, his
name, address, telephone number and signature should also appear on
the form.
3.9.4 Transportation to the landfill
3.9.4.1 Once drums, bags and wrapped components have been removed from
the work area, they shall be loaded into an enclosed truck for
transportation.
3.9.4.2 When moving containers, utilize hand trucks, carts and proper
lifting techniques to avoid back injuries. Trucks with lift gates
are helpful for raising drums during truck loading.
3.9.4.3 The enclosed cargo area of the truck shall be free of debris and
lined with 6-mil polyethylene sheeting to prevent contamination
from leaking or spilled containers. Floor sheeting shall be in-
stalled first and extend up the sidewalls. Wall sheeting shall be
overlapped and taped into place.
3.9.4.4 Drums shall be placed on level surfaces in the cargo area and
packed tightly together to prevent shifting and tipping. Large
structural components shall be secured to prevent shifting and
bags placed on top. Do not throw containers into truck cargo area.
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3.9.4.5 Personnel loading asbestos containing waste shall be protected by
disposable clothing including head, body and foot protection and
at a minimum, half-facepiece, air-purifying, dual cartridge
respirators equipped with high efficiency filters.
3.9.4.6 Any debris or residue observed on containers or surfaces outside
of the work area resulting from clean-up or disposal activities
shall be immediately -cleaned-up using HEPA filtered vacuum equip-
ment and/or wet methods as appropriate.
3.9.4.7 Large metal dunpsters are sometimes used for asbestos waste
disposal. These should have doors or tops that can be closed
and locked to prevent vandelism or other disterbance of the
bagged asbestos debris and wind dispersion of asbestos fibers.
Unbagged material shall not be placed in these containers, nor
shall be used for non-asbestos waste. Bags shall be placed, not
thrown, into these containers to avoid splitting.
3.9.5 Disposal at the landfill
3.9.5.1 Upon reaching the landfill, trucks are to approach the dump locat-
ion as closely as possible for unloading of the asbestos contain-
ing waste.
3.9.5.2 Bags, drums and components shall be inspected as they are off-
loaded at the disposal site. Material in damaged containers shall
be repacked in empty drums or bags as necessary. (Local require-
ments may not allow the disposal of asbestos waste in drums.
Check with appropriate agency and institute appropriate
a_ternative procedures.)
3.9.5.3 Waste containers shall be placed on the ground at the disposal
site, not pushed or thrown out of trucks (weight of wet material
could rupture containers).
3.9.5.4 Personnel off-loading containers at the disposal site shall wear
protective equipment consisting of disposable head, body and foot
protection and, at a minimum, half-facepiece, air-purifying, dual
cartridge respirators equipped with high efficiency filters.
3.9.5.5 Following the removal of all containerized waste, the truck cargo
area shall be decontaminated using HEPA vacuums and/or wet methods
to meet the no visible residue criteria. Polyethylene sheeting
shall be removed and discarded along with contaminated cleaning
materials and protective clothing, in bags or drums at the
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disposal site.
3.9.5.6 If Landfill personnel have not been provided with personal pro-
tective equipment for the compaction operation by the landfill
operator, Contractor shall supply protective clothing and respir-
atory protection for the duration of this operation.
3.10 Reestablishmsnt of the Work Area and Systems
3.10.1 Reestablishment of the work area shall only occur following the
completion of clean-up procedures and after clearance air monitoring
has been performed and documented to the satisfaction of the Building
Owner
3.10.2 Polyethlene barriers shall be removed from walls and floors at this
time, maintaining decontamination enclosure systems and barriers over
doors, windows, etc. as required.
3.10.4 The Contractor and Owner shall visually inspect the work area for any
remaining visible residue. Evidence of contamination will necess-
itate additional cleaning requirements in accordance with Section 3.7
3.10.5 Additional air monitoring shall be performed in accordance with Sec-
tion 3.8 if additional clean-up is necessary.
3.10.6 Following satisfactory clearance of the work area, remaining poly-
ethylene barriers may be removed and disposed of as asbestos contam-
inated waste.
3.10.7 At the discretion of the Contractor, mandatory requirements for per-
sonal protective equipment nay be waived following the removal of all
barriers.
3.10.8 Resecure mounted objects removed from their former positions during
area preparation activities.
3.10.9 Relocate objects that were removed to temporary locations back to
their original positions.
3.10.10 Reestablish HVAC, mechanical and electrical systems in proper work-
ing order. Remove contaminated HVAC system filters and dispose of as
asbestos contaminated waste. Decontaminate filter assembly using
HEPA vacuums and wet cleaning techniques. Install new filters in
HVAC systems. Dispose of old filters.
3.10.11 Repair all areas of damage that cccured as a result of abatement act-
ivities .
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Part 4 Support Activities and Personnel
4.1 Training
4.1.1 Training shall be provided by the Contractor to all employees or agents
who may be required to disturb asbestos containing or asbestos contam-
inated materials for abatement and auxilliary purposes and to all super-
visory personnel who may be involved in planning, execution or inspect-
ion of abatement projects.
4.1.2 Training shall provide, at a minimum, information on the following top-
ics:
4.1.2.1 The health hazards of asbestos including the nature of various
asbestos related diseases, routes of exposure, known dose-response
relationships, the synergistic relationship between asbestos
exposure and cigarette smoking, latency periods for disease and
health basis for standards.
4.1.2.2 The physical characteristics of asbestos including fiber size,
aerodynamic properties, physical appearance and uses.
4.1.2.3 Biployee personal protective equipment including the types and
characteristics of respirator classes, limitations of respirators,
proper selection, inspection, donning, use, maintenance and stor-
age of respirators, field testing the face-piece-to-face seal
(positive and negative pressure fitting tests), qualitative and
quantitative fit testing procedures, variations between laboratory
and field fit factors, factors that affect respirator fit (e.g.
facial hair), selection and use of disposable clothing, use and
handling of launderable clothing, non-skid shoes, gloves, eye
protection and hard hats.
4.1.2.4 Medical monitoring requirements for workers including required and
recommended tests, reasons for medical monitoring and enployee ac-
-oass to records.
4.1.2.5 Air monitoring procedures and requirements for workers including
description of equipment and procedures, reasons for monitoring,
types of samples and current standards with recommended changes.
4.1.2.6 Work practices for asbestos abatement including purpose, proper
construction and maintenance of air-tight plastic barriers, job
set-up of airlocks, worker decontamination systems and waste
transfer airlocks, posting of warning signs, engineering controls
electrical and ventilation system lockout, proper working techni-
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ques, waste clean-up, storage and disposal procedures.
4.1.2.7 Personal hygiene including entry and exit procedures for the work
area, use of showers and prohibition of eating, drinking, smoking
and chewing in the work area.
4.1.2.8 Special safety hazards that nay be encountered including eletric-
al hazards, air contaminants (00, wetting agents, encapsulants,
materials from Owner's operation), fire and explosion hazards,
scaffold and ladder hazards, slippery surfaces, confined spaces,
heat stress and noise.
4.1.2.9 Workshops affording both supervisory personnel and abatement
workers the opportunity to see (and experience) the construction
of containment barriers and decontamination facilities.
4.1.2.10 Supervisory personnel shall, in addition, receive training or con-
tract specifications, liability insurance and bonding, legal
considerations related to abatement, establishing respiratory
protection medical surveillance programs, EPA OSHA [and State]
recordkeeping requirements, and other topics as requested by the
Building Owner.
4.1.3 Training must be provided by individuals qualified by virtue of exper-
ience and education to discuss the topic areas in 4.2
4.1.4 Training is to have occurred within 12 months prior to the initiation of
abatement activities.
4.1.5 Contractor must documant training by providing date of training, train-
ing entity, course outline, and names and qualifications of trainers.
4.2 Medical Monitoring
4.2.1 Medical Monitoring must be provided by the Contractor to any employee or
agent that may be exposed to asbestos in excess of background levels
during any phase of the abatement project. (Due to the synergistic
effects between smoking and asbestos exposure, it is highly reccntnended
that only non-smokers be employed in positions which may require them to
enter asbestos contaminated atmospheres.
4.2.2 Medical monitoring shall include at a minimum:
4.2.2.1 A work/hiedical history to elicit symptomatology of respiratory
disease.
4.2.2.2 A chest x-ray (posterior - anterior, 14 x 13 inches) evaluated by
a Certified B-reader.
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4.2.2.3 A pulmonary funtion test, including forced vital capacity (FVC)
and forced expiratory volume at one second (FEV),, administered
and interpreted by a Certified Pulmonary Specialist.
4.2.3 Employees shall be given an opportunity to be evaluated by a physician
to determine their capability to work safely while breathing through the
added resistance of a respirator. (Examining physicians shall be aware
of the nature of respiratory protective devices and their contributions
to breathing resistance. They shall also be informed of the specific
types of respirators the employee shall be required to wear and the work
he will be required to perform, as well as special workplace conditions
such as high temperatures, high humidity, and chemical contaminants to
which he nay be exposed.)
4.3 Asbestos Project Manager
4.3.1 The Asbestos Project Manager shall be the Owner or a designated respre-
sentative paid by the owner, (also known as Clerk-of-the-Works or
Competent Person this person could be an administrator, architect,
engineer, industrial hygienist or other individuals(s) posessing the
qualifications detailed in section 4.3.2.)
4.3.2 The Asbestos Project Manager shall be able to demonstrate through
special education, training, skills, knowledge or experience
satisfactory to the Building Owner to indicate the ability to carry out
the following activities as required:
4.3.2.1 Assist in decision making regarding selection of procedures
4.3.2.2 Assist in writing contract specifications for the abatement
4.3.2.3 Assist in evaluation of bids and selection of a contractor
4.3.2.4 Enforce contract specifications
4.3.2.5 Tour work area with the Contractor and agree on pre-abatement con-
it ions of the work area
4.3.2.6 Inspect and sign off on barriers and decontamination enclosure
systems.
4.3.2.7 Observe activities at all times during the course of abatement.
4.3.2.8 Meet with the Contractor daily to review work progress and solve
problems or adjust procedures as appropriate.
4.3.2.9 Perform bulk material or air sampling and all workplace inspection
clearance inspections for the Building Owner.
4.3.2.10 Report on abatement to the Building Owner.
4.3.2.11 Request, review and maintain Contractor submittals.
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4.3.2.12 Provide training and/or respirator fit testing to personnel.
4.3.3 The Asbestos Project Manager shall have the authority to stop any job
activities if they are not being performed in accordance with applicable
regulations or guidelines or the requirements of this specification.
These will be reported to the Owner, with description of activity, reason
for stopping it and alternatives for correcting the problem.
(Note: The Asbestos Project Manager should be selected as early as
possible prior to selection of the Contractor to enable participation
during the pre-bid conference, walk-through, and pre-construction
conference.)
4.3.4 The Asbestos Project Manager shall be covered by adequate liability
insurance to protect against errors and omissions in the performance of
support activities. [Building Owner nay insert minimum requirements
based on individual projects.]
4.4 Air Sampling Professional (ASP)
4.4.1 The Air Sampling Professional shall conduct all air sampling for the
Building Owner.
4.4.2 The ASP shall conduct air sampling in accordance with the NIOSH Standard
Anylytical Method for Asbestos in Air P&CAM 239 and/or Method 7400 or
other acceptable methods as otherwise agreed upon.
4.4.3 It is recommended that the following schedule be utilized for air samp-
ling during the project (in addition to OSHA compliance monitoring):
4.4.3.1 Pre-abatement sampling - A sufficient number of air samples shall
be collected prior to the start of abatement activities in order
to determine prevalent airborne concentrations. Samples should be
taken both inside and outside of the work area and buildings to
establish existing levels under normal activity conditions.
4.4.3.2 Sampling during the abatement project
4.4.3.2.1 The following schedule of samples shall be required on a
daily basis, once abatement activities begin (The following
are recommended minimums. The size of the abatement activity
will impact on the number of samples necessary to adequately
monitor the Contractor's activities. Decisions on the
number of samples should be made with the advice of the Air
Sampling Professional):
2 Area Samples (inside the work area)
2 Personal Samples (inside the work area)
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2 Area Samples (outside the work area in uncontaminated
areas of the building. One of these shall be at the
entrance to the worker decontamination enclosure.)
1 Area Sample (outside the building)
1 Area Sample (at the exhaust of negative pressure
ventilation equipment.)
The number and location of air sample
will vary on a job-to-job and day-to-
day basis. Consult the air sampling
professional for guidance before the
project begins.
4.4.3.2.2 Samples shall be collected at a sampling rate of 2
liters/min. A minimum acceptable air volume is 480 liters.
4.4.3.3 Post-Abatement (clearance) air sampling shall be conducted follow-
ing the cleaning phase of work, once the no visible residue
criteron has been met. A sufficient number of samples shall be
collected aggressively (with portable fans circulating air in the
work area to simulate actual use conditions) to determine post-
abatement air concentrations. An adequate volume of air to
provide accuracy to 0.01 fibers/cc is required.
4.4.4 The Air Sampling Professional shall be experienced and knowledgeable
about the methods for asbestos air sampling and be able to select rep-
resentative numbers and locations of samples.
4.5.5 The Air Sampling Professional shall have adequate liability insurance
to protect against errors and emissions in the performance of support
activities. [Building Owner may insert minimum requirements based on
individual projects.]
4.5 laboratory Services
4.5.1 Laboratory utilized for analyzing air samples by NIOSH shall be
satisfactory participants in the NIOSH Proficiency Analytical testing
(PAT) program asbestos analysis.
4.5.2 Laboratories used for bulk material identification shall be satisfact-
ory participants in the EPA quality assurance program for. bulk asbestos
analysis.
4.5.3 The period of time permitted between the collection of air samples and
the availability of results shall be less than 24 hours for samples
collecting during abatement activities. Timetables for results of pre-
abatanent and clearance air samples shall be established by the Building
Owner. (On-site analytical capabilities are preferred for immediate
results of sampling. This provides the Building Owner with a tijnely
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review of Contractor performance and a more rapid awareness of hazardous
exposure conditions which can be corrected. This service nay not be
readily available, however. Real-time monitoring instruments provide
some support in this matter as long as their limitations are clearly
understood and the Contractor and Building Oner agree in advance on how
the results are to be used. These devices do not meet current CSHA
monitoring requirements and should not be used in place of sampling as
described in Section 4.4.3.2).
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PRE-WORK ACTIVITIES AND CONSIDERATIONS
Objective: To review the primary tasks that should be performed by the
contractor before beginning an asbestos abatement project. Also, to
discuss important considerations that should be examined before
agreeing on job specifications and price.
Learning Tasks: Information in this section should enable participants to:
CCST" Understand what to look for when conducting the pre-bid walk-
through survey of the job site.
CCSf )flkS'< sPecif'c questions relating to job site conditions and how
they effect agreements under the specifications.
CCSF" Become knowledgeable in good techniques for screening and
selecting abatement employees.
CCSf3 Understand the type of information that needs to be covered in a
training program for abatement employees.
CCST3 Understand the design and use of a project logbook and its
importance during an asbestos abatement job.
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I. ASSESSING THE WORK AREA
An important "rule of thumb" for any asbestos
abatement contractor is to never accept, or bid
a project, without first viewing and assessing
the site. There is much valuable information to
be gained during one of these assessments, such
as determining the size of the job (number of
sq. ft. of asbestos-containing material), or
examining the configuration of the ceiling sur-
face (irregular ceiling shape can increase the
amount of asbestos-containing material origin-
ally believed to be present). A survey such as
this also provides a basis upon which the con-
tractor can formulate an effective strategy for
asbestos removal and/or control. Some of the
important items an abatement contractor will
need to look for on this pre-bid survey are
outlined in this section of the program.
Check Analytical Results of Bulk Samples
The first questions that a contractor probably
should ask during the pre-bid walk through
survey are who did the initial survey to identify
the asbestos, what type of sampling was con-
ducted, and what forms of analysis were used.
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The contractor should ensure that appropriate
bulk sampling was performed by qualified indi-
viduals using proper analytical methods. A
laboratory that participates in the EPA bulk
asbestos identification quality assurance pro-
gram is a minimal requirement (accreditation
by the American Industrial Hygiene Association
is also preferred). The contractor should then
review the analytical results of the bulk
samples to determine the types and percentages
of asbestos present. There are several reasons
why this type of information will be of benefit
to the contractor. First, the analytical reports
provide excellent documentation that can be
used in establishing a project file. This file can
then be used as a good source of reference
should any questions arise concerning the
asbestos-containing materials in the building.
Information contained in the analytical reports
is also important because different types of
asbestos will require various handling tech-
niques. For instance, amosite is considered by
some scientists to be more hazardous than
chrysotile, in addition to not accepting wetting
agents as well, and will require different hand-
ling procedures. Fiber counts will usually be
much higher when handling amosite as opposed
to chrysotile.
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If analytical reports are not available prior to,
or during the survey, the contractor should
obtain his/her own by including it as part of the
assessment. It is important that the informa-
tion from these reports be used as the main
criteria on which to base decisions, rather than
word-of-mouth from a resident maintenance
worker or other building occupant which could
lead to confused facts or other misinformation.
Inspect the Nature of the Asbestos-Containing
Material
The contractor should determine the hardness
and texture of the asbestos-containing material
to be removed (must touch it). He/she should
also note whether or not it has been painted
over. (Note: A high efficiency cartridge type
respirator should be worn when conducting
these tests.) The contractor may also wish to
test a sample area of asbestos-containing
material to determine its ability to absorb
amended water. This can be done by using a
plant sprayer. If the material cannot absorb
wetting agents, other appropriate strategies
will need to be developed which may increase
the cost and project time.
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Check Accessibility of Material
Note the accessibility of all materials for
removal; that is, whether or not the asbestos-
containing material is accessible enough to
remove. If not, an alternative means of control
might have to be used such as encapsulation or
enclosure. Several factors that may enter into
this determination are ceiling height, false ceil-
ings, pipes, sprinklers, ducts, sloping floors,
fixed barriers, etc.
Check for Difficulty of Isolating the Work Area
Another important concern is isolating the area
in which removal will take place. Is it possible
to enclose the area completely by using six mil
polyethylene? Or, will other measures have to
be implemented in certain areas to adequately
isolate the removal site. In cases such as
school buildings, it may be easiest to simply
line the walls and floors with two layers of six
mil polyethylene since the contractor will
usually remove all desks and chairs from the
work area. However, in cases such as a church
or computer room, plywood and plastic enclo-
sures may have to be constructed so that the
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materials left in the room will not be contami-
nated by the asbestos removal activities, or
damaged by water. Another section of this
program, "Preparing the Work Area and
Establishing a Decontamination Unit," further
discusses these practices.
Determine if Areas Adjacent to Abatement
Activity Will Be Occupied
If areas adjacent to the abatement activity will
remain occupied, several important practices
should be observed. Most importantly, the
HVAC system will need to be altered, or the
opening of the duct into the work area should
be completely sealed off. This sealing of the
HVAC helps ensure that airborne fibers will not
be drawn into the air return system and dis-
persed throughout adjacent areas, or the supply
system will not place the work area under
positive pressure and cause airborne fibers to
escape. To provide documentation that con-
tamination of adjacent areas has not occurred,
a qualified person should take background air
samples in each of the areas before abatement
work begins. These results are then compared
to the results of samples taken in these areas
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during and after the work is completed. By
doing this sampling, it can be demonstrated
that other areas were not contaminated as a
result of the asbestos abatement work.
Determine Room Volume and Natural Air
Movement in the Work Area
During this walk-through survey, consideration
should be given to the number and placement of
negative air units. An estimate of the air
volume in the work area is necessary for deter-
mining the number of units needed to achieve
the desired number of air changes per hour.
Also, the way in which air will move through
the work area is a consideration in placement
of the negative air units. This idea is further
outlined in the section entitled, "Confining and
Minimizing Airborne Asbestos Fibers."
Check Items Requiring Special Protection
During the pre-bid walk-through, items requir-
ing special protection should be noted. These
items might include walnut paneling, trophy
cabinets, glass piping, carpets, lab equipment,
dangerous chemicals, computers, and elevators.
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In the case of walnut paneling, common sense
should be used when hanging polyethylene to
enclose the work area. Care must be used when
tacking up the plastic so that the paneling will
not become damaged. The nails should be
placed between the panel strips in the natural
gaps as near the ceiling as possible to prevent
any small holes from being visible.
For trophy cabinets that are stationary and
must remain in the work area while removal is
taking place, proper measures must be taken to
ensure that the cabinet is adequately enclosed
with six mil polyethylene. During this initial
survey, the contractor should note the condition
of any of these cabinets, and the exact contents
of each to prevent any future conflicts that
could result if someone were to claim that
something was damaged or missing.
Glass piping is another item that the contractor
should note during the pre-bid walk-through
since special procedures must be followed to
ensure that it does not become damaged. These
glass/ceramic pipes will often contain
hazardous materials, (i.e., acids, hazardous
waste, etc.). Therefore, the pipes should be
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tagged and/or labeled as containing hazardous
materials, and workers should avoid contacting
them if possible. These glass pipes are often
found in the vicinity of other pipes which have
asbestos-containing lagging on them.
Therefore, contingency procedures must be
established to prevent and handle hazards which
could develop from working around these pipes.
Determine if Existing Carpet is to be Removed
Special note should also be made of where
carpeting is located in the facility. In most
cases, the carpeting should be removed com-
pletely from the area in which the asbestos
removal will be taking place. When fibers
settle on a carpeted surface, they often pene-
trate through to the floor and become trapped
underneath. Once this occurs, repeated traffic
over the area will cause the fibers to be re-
dispersed throughout the surrounding air. If
carpet is specified for removal, assess the diffi-
culty of removing it (i.e., the carpet may be
glued in place). Also, consideration must be
given to disposal requirements/procedures.
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Note Any Materials or Equipment Which Will
Require Special Handling
Additionally, lab equipment and/or dangerous
chemicals should be examined closely by the
contractor during the pre-bid walk-through
survey. It may be necessary to remove much of
the equipment and/or chemicals from the work
area before abatement activities take place. If
the contractor's employees will be moving
expensive lab equipment or chemicals, the con-
tractor should ensure that all items are appro-
priately handled through training and/or direct
supervision. This may be a tedious process
requiring extra time to complete. In some
cases, the building owner may have their own
maintenance personnel perform these functions
before the contractor comes in to begin work.
Note Stationary Objects that Require Special
Attention
As previously mentioned, if the abatement work
area will be in a room that contains computers
which cannot be moved, other strategies must
be developed such as building an elevated plat-
form (plywood and plastic) over the terminals.
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Elevators can also be a major problem on as
asbestos abatement job. The elevator, or the
shaft can become contaminated with asbestos-
containing materials, or their movement can
cause air displacement in contaminated areas.
The contractor will need to take special
precautions to properly seal off the doors with
six mil polyethylene (even plywood in some
cases) and to key the elevator not to stop at the
floor(s) on which the work area is located.
Other Considerations
To prevent any misunderstandings or conflicts,
it is imperative that the job specifications spell
out exactly who is to pay for the utilities used
during the project. Usually, the building owner
will pay these expenses, but if not, this should
be clearly understood by both sides before work
begins. Likewise, the waste water filtration
and disposal method should be agreed upon and
specified (see "Waste Disposal Requirements").
The contractor should also document all pre-
existing damages in the areas in which his/her
employees will be working. Photographs, video-
tapes, diagrams, lists, and tape recordings may
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be used for these purposes. This documentation
should include all surface damages (walls,
tables, desks, etc.), vandalism, roof leaks, or
other water damage. This consideration is
important because often after a project has
been completed, the building owner, or another
facility operator will claim that some damages
occurred as a result of the contractor's work.
By utilizing the list that was developed at the
beginning of the project, the contractor can
verify whether the damages were pre-existing,
and not a result of the contractor's work.
Other important aspects that should be consid-
ered by a contractor when conducting a pre-bid
walk-through survey include an estimate of the
temperature when the project is scheduled to
begin. It may be that the bid is at the end of
the summer, and the project is scheduled to
begin in the winter, or vice versa. In these
cases, appropriate climate control strategies
will need to be implemented. Also, at this
time, it should be decided who will provide
security at night or off-hours to assure that no
unauthorized entries into the contaminated
work area will occur.
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Additional safety hazards that need to be con-
sidered include all electrical circuits and/or
receptacles, equipment, etc. Since the work
area in an asbestos abatement job will common-
ly contain large amounts of water, the potential
for electrical hazards will be greatly increased.
During the pre-bid walk-through, the contractor
should make note of all these potential hazards.
Once the building owner is made aware of these
situations, an appropriate plan of action can be
implemented. It may be possible and appropri-
ate to shut down all power to the work area
while the project is going on. If not, other
precautions will need to be taken. This is
discussed in greater detail in the section
entitled, "Safety and Health Considerations,
Other than Asbestos."
Consideration must also be given as to where
the contractor will be able to park vehicles or
trailers. Are there adequate facilities present-
ly available, or will other arrangements have to
be made? Along with this, consideration must
be given to where the contractor's equipment
and supplies will be stored. If there is not
adequate space available on the job site, it may
be necessary to rent additional space at some
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nearby location. Care must be used so that the
rented space will not become contaminated.
(Note: Recommend lining the space with two
layers of six mil polyethylene.)
Possibly, the most important aspect to consider
during the pre-bid survey is whether full or
partial removal will take place. If partial
removal will be performed, the airborne fiber
clearance levels in the contract specifications
should be examined closely to determine if that
level is achievable.
Another area of concern during the walk-
through should be the configuration of the walls
and surfaces for attaching tape. This is
important to determine how the polyethylene
sheeting will have to be hung to adequately
enclose the work area. Care must be used when
hanging polyethylene so the walls will not be
damaged, but the plastic will remain in place
until intentionally moved. This is an important
consideration at this time since the contractor
will have to estimate how much material will
be needed to enclose all work areas. Many
times, the building owner may want the project
to be inconspicuous to the general public.
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Therefore, opaque polyethylene may have to be
used to construct tunnels from the work areas
outside to the waste disposal trucks.
Additionally, depending on the nature of the
work area, special tools, equipment, and man-
lifts or scissorlifts may have to be utilized
during propping of the work area.
The location and type of decontamination units
should also be a major consideration before
submitting a bid. Will it be possible to have one
central decontamination unit, or will it be
necessary to establish multiple stations? Some
contractors may have their own units (i.e.,
trailers), but many choose to build them on-
site. Many buildings in which asbestos removal
takes place already contain shower facilities
(i.e., school buildings, gymnasiums, etc.).
Under no circumstances should the contractor
ever permit his/her employees to use these as
part of the decontamination sequence.
Separate facilities should be constructed utiliz-
ing appropriate waste water filtration equip-
ment. An advantage of building temporary site
units is that the chance of residual contamina-
tion is reduced since they will be demolished at
the end of the project and disposed.
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Also, a major area of concern when assessing a
facility prior to beginning work is identification
of any hot surfaces (pipes) that could present a
hazard to abatement workers. First, it should
be noted whether the pipes will be active or
inactive. If they are active, appropriate meas-
ures will have to be taken to ensure that
workers will not contact these surfaces. If the
lines are inactive, work may be carried out as it
would on any other surface of normal tempera-
ture. The contractor should investigate the
types of re-insulation that will be required on
surfaces and pipes after the asbestos-containing
material has been removed. The original
material was there for some specific purpose;
thus, a replacement material with similar prop-
erties will probably be necessary.
If type C, air supplied respirators will be used,
the contractor must determine whether or not
the hoses will reach the work area from the air-
generating source. Low pressure air-supply
lines cannot exceed 300 feet, according to
OSHA regulations.
Another important aspect that must be consid-
ered by a contractor before bidding a project is
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who will pay for the air monitoring, and
whether or not the person conducting the moni-
toring is qualified. This should be established in
the specifications. The building owner should
always be responsible for the daily air sampling,
but the contractor is often responsible (and
required by OSHA) to conduct personal air
sampling on the asbestos abatement employees.
(Note: This is discussed in greater detail in the
"Air Monitoring" section.)
The contractor should ensure that the job speci-
fications allow adequate time for their
company to complete the job with a high degree
of quality. If specifications call for a "hurry
up" job, the contractor should inform the build-
ing owner or architect if they do not feel that
adequate time is available to complete the
project. Attempting to perform the job hastily
may only result in sloppy work and may need-
lessly endanger the health and safety of
employees or other building occupants.
Lastly, since there are an increasing number of
asbestos abatement projects being undertaken
these days, many times the people directly
involved with attempting to coordinate an
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asbestos abatement program for a facility may
not be adequately educated in what needs to be
included in the job specifications. Thus, there
will inevitably be cases in which specifications
from other projects are photocopied and sent
out for bids. These are often not applicable in
the least to the particular facility of concern.
The contractor should ensure that the specifi-
cations they are bidding on are designed for the
work and work area of that facility. Though
other specifications can usually serve as a good
guideline for developing a new set of specifica-
tions, they should never be used verbatim from
one project to another. No matter how similar
projects may seem, each one is different in
some way.
These are not all of the special considerations
that need to be examined when conducting a
pre-bid walk-through survey of an asbestos-
containing facility; rather, they are some
common concerns that should typically be
investigated before beginning any asbestos
abatement project. These aspects are
important because they could cost the contrac-
tor's company a substantial amount of time and
money, in addition to possibly endangering the
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lives of employees or other building occupants.
It is imperative that the contractor and the
building owner have a firm understanding as to
exactly how each step of the project will be
carried out.
II. MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE
Contractors are required as employers to pro-
vide, at no charge to the employee (if exposed
to asbestos), a physical examination by a quali-
fied physician. There are specific items that
these physicals must entail (refer to OSHA 29
CFR 1910.1001). The contractor may use the
results of these physicals to screen potential
employees that may have had previous
exposures to asbestos. If possible, the contrac-
tor should avoid hiring a heavy smoker as a
removal worker, or anyone else that would
naturally be at an increased risk from previous
exposure. This topic is further detailed in the
section entitled, "Medical Surveillance."
III. EMPLOYEE TRAINING
Any workers who will be in or around an
asbestos abatement work area should, as a
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minimum, be advised of the hazards associated
with asbestos exposure, be trained in how to
adequately protect themselves from exposure
during the course of the project, and be trained
in correct job procedures for each of their
positions. OSHA requires training for the use
of respirators. A good way of documenting that
this training has taken place is to develop a
formal training session at which attendance is a
mandatory condition of employment. After the
training is complete, a written test should be
administered. Those who pass the exam should
be permitted to proceed with work, and those
that fail should be held back, reviewed as to
why they failed, and subsequently re-trained. A
typical training program will be at least six to
eight hours long, and for more complex jobs,
should last two days.
A good, in-depth training program should cover
many concepts dealing with the various aspects
of asbestos abatement projects. Background
information on asbestos. Employees should be
told what it is and where it comes from. Also,
they should be informed as to how asbestos was
used and why. An architect, or someone else
with a good technical background may be best
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suited to present this part of the training
program.
The next phase of the training should be an
outline of the dangers or health hazards associ-
ated with exposure to asbestos fibers. Someone
with a good understanding of the medical
hazards associated with breathing asbestos
should give this part of the training session. It
is important that not only the health hazards be
discussed, but also how the fibers enter the
body, and what happens once they are contained
inside the lungs. Fiber size, visibility, and
settling times are all important information. A
film or slides may be helpful in illustrating
these points.
After employees are made aware of the health
hazards associated with asbestos exposure, the
next phase of training should be on what they
can do to protect themselves from this
exposure (i.e., work practices and personal pro-
tective equipment). This training should
include step-by-step instruction on how to per-
form each task associated with their jobs (i.e.,
glovebagging, wetting and scraping, etc.). Also,
training should include a comprehensive review
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of the use of respiratory protection including
the following aspects:
a. How to put on and take off the respirator
b. Cleaning and Maintenance of Respirators
c. Inspection of Respirators
d. Fit testing of Respirators
e. Discussion on uses and limitations of
different types of respirators
f. Hands-on experience (look at various
parts)
Note: The training requirements of an
effective respiratory protection program are
addressed in the section entitled, "Respiratory
Protection."
It is also important that workers be properly
trained in the use of protective clothing. They
should be made aware of its limitations, and
how it should be used to optimize the protec-
tion factor.
The next phase of the training program should
be a discussion of all applicable EPA and OSHA
regulations regarding asbestos abatement
projects. Also, there may be certain state or
local regulations of which employees need to be
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aware. This part of the program should not be
extremely detailed, rather it should provide the
employees with a good understanding of what
they should or should not do when conducting
removal of asbestos-containing materials. It
should be emphasized that the main concern is
the safety and health of the workers, rather
than simply the concern of receiving a citation
for a violation.
The fifth phase of employee training should
deal with proper techniques for sealing off the
work area. In this section, employees will be
instructed on what to look for before sealing
off the work area, and also how to construct a
safe and effective enclosure. Employees should
first be made aware of what an HVAC system
is, and how it affects the air movement through
an area. They should also be instructed on how
to shut the system down and seal off outlets
and inlets so that airborne fibers will not be
drawn into it. Employees should then be
instructed in proper techniques for erecting
plastic barriers, draping the walls, floors, and
furniture with six mil polyethylene. This also
includes construction of airlocks and change
rooms, in addition to posting appropriate warn-
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ing signs, etc. Also, it is important to inform
employees that if a puncture develops in the
polyethylene enclosure while the work area is
active, they should stop work and immediately
seal the leak.
Following the session on sealing off the work
area, workers should be trained in how to
effectively confine and minimize airborne fiber
generation. This can best be accomplished
through proper use of wet methods (i.e., spray
the asbestos-containing material with amended
water). Workers should also be informed at this
time that different forms of asbestos will react
differently to the application of water. For
example, chrysotile will typically accept water;
while amosite is generally more resistant to
wetting. Therefore, employees will have to
take appropriate protective measures since air-
borne fiber concentrations will be potentially
higher when a removal job involves amosite.
Employees should be instructed in methods of
misting the air with water, and also in the
proper methods of using the HEPA vacuum.
Additionally, the function of negative air units
should be outlined and employees made aware
of the need to ensure that these units are kept
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running so that if a rupture occurred in the
enclosure, fiber leakage would be minimized.
A very important aspect of employee training
that is often taken lightly is the recognition and
control of safety and health hazards (other than
asbestos) in an asbestos abatement work area.
Proper training can help reduce employee inju-
ries, and lost time accidents. Subject areas
that should be covered in this part of the
session include the proper use of scaffolding,
how to recognize and/or eliminate trip/slip
hazards, the proper use of ladders, the identifi-
cation of any electrical hazards, and how to
avoid heat stress/heat stroke situations.
The next phase of employee training should
entail cleaning up the work area. This cleaning
will take place after gross removal has
occurred and all residual debris is ready to be
disposed of. Wet cleaning techniques should be
reviewed (wetting the waste and collecting it
off the floor). Settling times should also be
discussed.
Correct disposal of asbestos-containing debris
is also an important aspect of an abatement
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employee training program (specifically for
employees that will be directly involved with
disposal operations). This part of the program
should include discussions on the need to place
the wetted waste in appropriately labeled six
mil polypropylene bags. These bags should then
be placed in airtight fiberboard drums before
being loaded into the enclosed truck to be taken
to the landfill. (Note: See section entitled,
"Waste Disposal Requirements.") It is
important that any employees who might be
involved with this type of operation in some
way be made aware of the proper procedures
for carrying out these waste disposal activities
and the protective equipment required.
Another important aspect that an employee
training program should include is information
on final inspections/air sampling, and why it is
important. The reason that employees need to
be aware of what the final inspections will
entail is because when they finish work in a
certain area, they can conduct a fairly thorough
visual inspection themselves.
Employees should also be informed as to why
air sampling is being conducted, and what the
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results mean. Employees should be informed
that they may be asked to wear a personal air
sampling pump while they are performing their
job so that the fiber levels that they are
exposed to can be closely monitored. They
should be requested to cooperate with the
industrial hygienist when it is their turn to wear
the sampling equipment. It must also be
emphasized to the employees not to tamper
with the sampling equipment that they are
wearing since the results will indicate the level
of airborne fibers to which they are being
exposed.
Another aspect that the training program
should cover is an explanation of the personnel
decontamination sequence. This should cover
procedures to be followed when beginning or
finishing a shift of asbestos abatement work.
When beginning a shift, employees should be
instructed to enter the clean room first, put on
their protective equipment/clothing, proceed
through the shower area and into the dirty
equipment room before entering the work area.
When finishing a shift, employees should be
instructed to enter the dirty equipment room
first, remove all of their protective clothing
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(except respirators), and then take showers.
Respirators should be removed and washed
while the employee is in the shower. After the
employees complete the shower, they can then
go to the clean room to change back into their
street clothes. Employees should also be
instructed that in emergency situations, the
emergency will probably override the potential
of adjacent area contamination, and good
judgement should be used if someone needs to
get out of the work enclosure very quickly
(employee has a heart attack, fire, etc.).
Emergency break-through points in the poly-
ethylene enclosure should be clearly marked so
that they will be easily accessible.
Once all of this formal classroom training is
completed, ample time should be provided for
employees to participate in hands-on training or
workshops. Demonstration in these workshops
should include proper techniques for glovebag-
ging, wet and scrape methods, constructing
work area enclosures, personal protective
equipment, etc. This will be the most effective
way to illustrate exactly how these typical
asbestos abatement procedures should be con-
ducted.
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Throughout the training program, slides, video
tapes, and hand-outs should be utilized when
possible. A mixture of training techniques
results in better learning. Also, employees with
prior experience in asbestos abatement may
have valuable input during this session. These
comments should be encouraged by the instruc-
tor, and any misinformation should be immedi-
ately corrected without "putting the person
down." It is important for the instructors not
to get overly technical in any one area. At the
end of the program, the written test should be
administered. Results of these tests should be
used to spot areas where employees may need
further training. Also, at this time, employees
should sign a form indicating that they have
received training. The tests and the forms
should then be place in a file so that there will
be documentation that employees were trained
appropriately.
IV. DESIGN AND USE OF A PROJECT LOGBOOK
Prior to the start of any asbestos abatement
project, a logbook should be established. The
logbook serves as a vehicle for maintaining all
the records associated with a project. At a
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minimum, included in the book should be copies
of the employees' medical reports, copies of
any accident, injury, or accident reports, air
sampling results, notes concerning any devia-
tion from standard work procedures, sign-in
sheets, and all other pertinent documents, per-
mits, correspondence, photographs, or records.
Many of these records will be duplicated else-
where such as medical records in the
employee's personal file, etc.
The logbook serves many important functions.
It provides a ready reference for each project
that can be presented at any time during the
project, or long after its completion. It may be
produced by the contractor to demonstrate to
future clients the procedures followed during a
project. The logbook can be an important tool
for planning future jobs and estimating costs.
When planning a project similar in nature, it
can aid in estimating how long the project will
take to complete, how many people will be
necessary, and how to approach specific prob-
lems. The following examples may help to
illustrate this point.
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Example; Prior to the start of one job, the
contractor probed the depth of the fireproofing
and found it to be approximately three inches
deep. During the removal, they discovered that
approximately fifty percent of the fireproofing
was over six inches deep, and in some areas,
nine inches deep. A few extra minutes of
probing the depth of the fireproofing would
have saved much time and money during this
project. Unfortunately, this was not the first
time that this had happened to this company.
Had it been recorded in a logbook the first time
it occurred, and changes in the standard proce-
dures for estimating the amount of material
made, this problem would probably have been
avoided.
Example: A removal project of twenty-four
thousand square feet was two days ahead of
schedule with only the sprayback of treated
cellulose remaining to be completed. Three
days after this sprayback material was applied,
it began to fall from the ceiling. It took the
contractor an extra week of work to remove
this material and replace it with a different
substance. The problem appears to have
resulted from the inability of the material to
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adhere to the substrate since temperatures
during application exceeded 95°F in some
cases. Notes of this problem were maintained
in the project logbook and corresponding
instructions added to the standard operating
procedures to prevent this from occurring
again.
A project logbook may help in protecting a
contractor from future liability concerning a
specific project. A logbook indicates that the
contractor performing the work actually
attempts to do the best job possible using state-
of-the-art techniques. The sign-in sheets main-
tain a record of all people entering and exiting
the work area, for what purpose, for how long,
and what personal protective equipment they
need. This information, coupled with the air
sampling data, can quickly be used to estimate
how much asbestos the person was exposed to
and for how long. Copies of daily inspection
reports will also reveal if employees were
wearing the appropriate protective equipment
and whether or not it was adequate in protect-
ing them from the airborne fiber levels docu-
mented by the air sampling results. This infor-
mation would be very valuable if needed for
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litigation in the future. It is important to note
that all records must be kept, not just a portion
of them.
Example; The following is a hypothetical
example. The year is 1996, a woman dies of
lung cancer. Her husband recalls that she
worked in a building when 20 years before, the
owner had stripped asbestos-containing fire-
proofing from the boiler room. A suit is filed
against the building owners and the contractor
who performed the removal work. Although the
contractor performed air sampling throughout
the projects, no records were kept regarding
work practices, other people in the area,
whether the air handling system was on or off,
or where the waste was disposed. Since this is
a hypothetical case, speculation on the outcome
would not be appropriate. However, the
contractor would have a better defense if
proper records were maintained.
The logbook should be well organized, but in a
style decided by the contractor. There are two
common methods of organization. First, there
is the day-by-day method such as a ship
captain's log. If this method is chosen, a
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looseleaf or bound notebook with dividers
labeled with each day should be maintained for
each job. Be sure to make entries on days that
no work is done including how the integrity of
the jobsite was maintained.
Another more common method of organizing a
logbook is by activity. Using this method, a
looseleaf notebook is divided into each activity
and all documentation, notes, and receipts con-
cerning that activity is maintained in the
appropriate section. The following outline is
one suggestion for organizing a logbook. It
should be noted that this is just one outline;
depending on the requirements of each project,
some sections may not apply, while additional
ones may be necessary.
SECTION
Pre-Work
Papers
Contract
Specifications
CONTENTS
EPA or state notification forms,
any necessary state licenses,
county or city permits
(contractor license, disposal per-
mits, etc.). Records regarding
the bonding company, size of
bond, insurance coverage, etc.
Contract specifications, includ-
ing all drawings/diagrams would
be in this section.
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Personnel
Sign-In
Sheets
Subcontractors
Air Monitoring
Waste Disposal
Daily
Inspection
Reports
Personnel records including
employment application, W-4
withholding forms, medical
records, and any other records
pertaining to each employee.
Some firms also have their
employees sign certificates stat-
ing that they have read and
understand the OSHA asbestos
standard (29 CFR 1910.1001),
been trained in asbestos removal
techniques, trained and fit
tested for respirators, etc.
A separate section containing
the daily sign-in sheets indicat-
ing when each employee went in
and out of the work area, their
affiliation, and their purpose for
entering the work area. In this
section would be a list of all
authorized personnel permitted
to enter the contaminated area.
Also in this section is a record of
each employees work hours for
payroll purposes.
This section would be a record of
all subcontractors' activities
including copies of the contract,
names, dates, etc.
All air sampling for the project
should be included in this
section. Area air sampling and
personal sampling results should
be presented. Also presented in
this section should be a copy of
the sampling and analytical
method used along with informa-
tion concerning who performed
the work.
Records of waste disposal activi-
ties including trip tickets should
be kept in this section.
Copies of daily inspection
reports should be maintained.
These reports, addressed else-
where, should also indicate who
performed the inspection, date
and time of inspection. It is
extremely important to include
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comments on unusual aspects of
the project, and to address any
problems that arose and how
they were handled.
Other Sections Other sections may be added as
necessary. Possibly injury/
illness reports, receipts for
rental equipment, lodging, out-
side inspections, newspaper clip-
pings, etc.
The responsibility of maintaining the logbook
should be assigned to responsible personnel.
Normally, this function is performed by the job
site supervisor or the other person responsible
for coordinating activities at the work site.
Upon conclusion of the job, this person may
write a one page summary of the project. This
summary can then be compiled with others and
produced as evidence of previous jobs per-
formed by the contractor to perspective
clients. The two attachments that follow are
examples of a daily project log and a sign-in
sheet, respectively.
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DATE: •
DAILY PROJECT LOG
Project Name: Job No.:
Superintendent: (print)
NOTE - Fill in GENERAL comments on routine progress on this project on the above
date. DETAIL major problems and action taken, injuries, equipment
breakdown, unusual conditions or situations, inspections, hiring or firing of
personnel and any other occurrence which may affect the project. This log
may be utilized as a legal document.
SIGNATURE;
Revised 11/82
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DATE All personnel must sign in or out
every time they enter/exit the work
PROJECT area.
SUPT.
JOB SIGN-IN/SIGN-OUT AND
VISITORS LOG
PLEASE SIGN CLEARLY
NAME EMPLOYER TIME IN TIME OUT REASON/PPE ISSUED
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ESTABLISHING A MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM
Objective: To provide instructions and guidelines to course participants for
establishing an ongoing medical surveillance program for employees
exposed to airborne asbestos fibers.
Learning Tasks: Information in this section should enable participants to:
CCSf3 Understand the need for an ongoing medical surveillance
program for workers exposed to asbestos.
CCST* Understand the various elements that comprise an acceptable
medical surveillance program
CC3T* ^e knowledgeable of the OSHA standards regarding respirator
use.
CCSf* Understand how the medical monitoring should be conducted,
what tests should be performed, and what the results mean..
CCSf Understand procedures for maintaining appropriate records on
each employee
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THE IMPORTANCE OF MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE
It is important for all asbestos abatement contrac-
tors to establish an ongoing medical surveillance
program for several reasons. The three major areas
of concern are:
1. The safety and health of all employees
2. Regulatory requirements
3. Other legal liability concerns
Through implementation of a sound medical surveil-
lance program, an abatement contractor will be able
to verify every employee's medical status at a
particular time, comply with OSHA standards on
medical surveillance of workers exposed to asbestos,
and also, to reduce other possible liability risks. In
this section, these three concerns are addressed, in
addition to several other considerations associated
with medical surveillance programs.
Who Needs Medical Surveillance?
Because of the increased public awareness concern-
ing the hazards associated with exposure to airborne
asbestos fibers, and because of various regulatory
requirements, employers and building owners are
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finding themselves in situations where they must
provide for regular and periodic medical surveil-
lance for their employees. Asbestos abatement
contractors are required to provide a medical sur-
veillance program for their employees since they
are regularly exposed to airborne asbestos fibers.
For these employees, a medical surveillance
program is used to determine their baseline health
status (health status before beginning work), to
monitor their health during the duration of their
employment/project, and also to provide documen-
tation of their health status along with their work
history upon completion of their employment/
project.
Other employees that should be provided medical
surveillance are custodial and maintenance workers
who may encounter asbestos-containing materials
while performing their normal duties. Examples of
these duties might include working above false ceil-
ings with asbestos-containing insulation, installing
ceiling tiles, or performing maintenance on pipes or
boilers that have asbestos-containing insulation on
them. By law, any employees working in a building
in which the airborne fiber concentrations exceed
0.1 fibers per cubic centimeter (f/cc) during an 8
hour time weighted average (TWA), are required to
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undergo medical surveillance with the cost to be
borne by the employer/building owner. Additionally,
any employee who wears a respirator as a routine
part of their job, must also be medically evaluated
on a regular basis. This is to ensure that the use of
the respirator does not adversely affect his or her
health.
O5HA Standards — Medical Surveillance
According to the OSHA asbestos standard, 29 CFR
1910.1001, subpart J, the employer/building owner
must provide, at his/her own expense, medical
examinations relative to their employees' exposure
to asbestos. An acceptable medical surveillance
program must include pre-placement, annual, and
termination examinations provided there is suffi-
cient evidence that demonstrates that an employee
has not been examined in accordance with the
standard within the past one-year period. This
standard also outlines the requirements for main-
taining medical records on each employee.
Pre-Placement Exams
According to the OSHA standard, pre-placement
examinations must take place within 30 calendar
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days following the worker's first employment. A
comprehensive medical evaluation must be per-
formed. This should include, as a minimum, a chest
x-ray (posterior-anterior 14 x 17 inches), a medical
history to determine the presence of any possible
respiratory diseases, and pulmonary function tests
including forced vital capacity (FVC) (the maximum
amount of air that can be expired from the lung
after full inhalation), and forced expiratory volume
after one second (FEVi.n.) (the amount of air forci-
bly expired in one second after full inhalation).
The results of this examination will be used as the
employee's baseline health status, and also to deter-
mine whether or not they are capable of wearing
respirators. A physician's report will then be fur-
nished to the employer/building owner for their
files. If an employee requests to see the report, the
employer/building owner is required to supply them
with a copy. It would also be considered good
practice to explain the report to the individual
employee. Individual test results are normally kept
by the physician or clinic to maintain confidenti-
ality.
It is very important for the employer to be sure the
clinic maintains the results of the examination on
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file. In the event an employee files suit at some
future date claiming a disability, the employer/
building owner will be able to check their records
and prove whether or not the condition could have
occurred as a result of employment with their
company.
In addition to the medical reports, the employer/
building owner should request that the physician
provide a statement indicating whether or not an
employee is capable of wearing a respirator, and
also outlining any limitations associated with their
use. This form should also indicate any other
limitations (i.e., intense heat, extreme cold, etc.).
Annual Examinations
According to OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1001, subpart
(J)(3), every employer must provide, or make avail-
able, comprehensive medical evaluations to each of
their employees engaged in occupations which cause
exposure to airborne asbestos fibers (i.e., abatement
workers, maintenance people, etc.). Such annual
examinations must include, as a minimum, a chest
x-ray (posterior-anterior 14 x 17 inches), a study to
determine the presence of any respiratory diseases,
a pulmonary function test which includes FVC and
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^Q. (Note: Many physicians recommend fewer
x-rays than every year. It is important to consult
your clinic on this matter, but recognize that OSHA
currently requires annual x-ray examinations. This
examination is basically the same as the pre-
placement evaluation, and is used primarily as an
ongoing surveillance mechanism.
The physician will be able to compare the annual
examinations with the pre-placement evaluations to
determine if there are any changes in an employee's
health status. If there are noticeable changes, the
employer and the employee should both be notified
since the situation may require immediate action
(i.e., transfer to another job, discontinue respirator
use, etc.).
Annual examinations, in most cases, will be most
applicable to custodial or maintenance workers who
work in a building, and are not engaged in full-time
asbestos-related work. With the exception of a long
duration project (over 1 year), or an abatement
contractor that continually uses the same employees
on abatement jobs, most of the people used on an
asbestos removal project are temporary workers,
and thus annual monitoring would not be possible.
Temporary workers, in particular, should be encour-
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aged to obtain and preserve copies of their medical
records.
Termination of Employment Examination
Within 30 calendar days before or after the termina-
tion of an employee, OSHA requires that each
employee exposed to asbestos receive a medical
examination. This examination must entail the
same items as the pre-placement and annual exams.
There must be a chest x-ray (posterior -- anterior
14 x 17 inches), a history to determine the presence
of any respiratory diseases, and pulmonary function
testing including FVC and FEVj^g. Records of these
exams must be retained by the employer/building
owner for a minimum period of 30 years to provide
documentation of the health status of the employee.
The reason for this 30 year period is because the
latency period associated with asbestos-related
diseases often ranges between 15-30 years. Thus, if
an employee files a claim 25 years later, the
employer will have records on file for reference.
REASONS FOR SPECIFIC TESTS
All of the tests that are required to be performed
during pre-placement, annual, and termination
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medical examinations are required in order to prop-
erly evaluate the human body systems that are most
likely to be affected by exposure to elevated levels
of airborne asbestos fibers. Some specific reasons
for each tests are discussed as follows:
Chest X-Ray — (Posterior -- Anterior 14 x 17
Inches): These are performed primarily to detect
irregularities in the lungs or the heart, including any
fibrosis or pleural plaques induced by exposure to
asbestos. Chest x-rays may also be used as a
baseline for comparing future x-rays. Ideally, chest
x-rays should be interpreted by a certified
"B Reader." A "B Reader" is a physician (often a
radiologist or pulmonologist) who has received
specialized training in the interpretation of chest x-
rays, specifically relating to occupational lung
diseases. "B Readers" are required to pass a profi-
ciency test administered by the Centers for Disease
Control (NIOSH) in Morgantown, West Virginia.
Pulmonary Function; These tests are conducted to
determine if a person's lungs are expanding nor-
mally, and if there is adequate air movement in and
out of the lungs. The FVC and FEV^g are con-
ducted through the use of a spirometer. If the
is reduced, this may signify a possible
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obstruction or problem in an employees lungs. If the
FVC or the ratio of FEVi.g to FVC is reduced, this
may signify restrictive changes in the employee's
lungs.
Pulmonary History; This part of the examination is
simply a questionnaire that is completed by the
employee. It is used to identify the potential for
respiratory diseases. Several questions relate to
chronic lung diseases, while others address the
employee's personal habits such as smoking. There
is often particular concern for the health of a
person who smokes and is also exposed to asbestos.
Smoking is known to have a synergistic effect
relating to asbestos exposure. That is, it compounds
or intensifies the effects. Recent studies indicate
that an asbestos worker who smokes is more likely
to develop lung cancer than non-smokers who do not
work with asbestos.
Physical Examination; Criteria to be evaluated on
the routine physical examination often include
medical history, blood pressure, pulse, vision (depth
perception, peripheral), an audiogram (hearing test),
urinalysis, and follow-up classification with appro-
priate recommendations.
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It is a good recommended practice to require indi-
viduals over 40 years of age, or other people who
might be at an increased risk, to have a physical
examination. Also, for these same individuals, it
would be valuable to have electrocardiograms per-
formed. It is a known fact that the use of respira-
tors places increased strain on the cardio-pulmonary
system; thus, if abnormalities show up on the elec-
trocardiogram, appropriate actions can be taken
(i.e., transfer to a job that does not require respira-
tor use).
Costs Associated with Medical Surveillance
The costs of employee medical surveillance exami-
nations are relatively reasonable compared to the
cost of privately practicing physicians. In some
cases, it may be possible to obtain group discounts if
enough employees are involved. A recent poll of
several occupational health clinics in the Atlanta,
Georgia area indicated the following average costs:
Chest x-ray
posterior-anterior $ 35-40
lateral 15-20
Pulmonary Function 20-25
Pulmonary History
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Physical Examination 20-30
Electrocardiogram 20-30
SUMMARY
Important information to obtain from this section of
the course includes an understanding of why a good
medical surveillance program is essential for
employers/building owners to ensure the safety and
health of their employees, and also to reduce their
liability potential for claims pertaining to asbestos
exposure. Also, it is important to have a firm
understanding of the OSHA requirements regarding
medical surveillance programs for employees
exposed to more than 0.1 f/cc of airborne asbestos
determined by an 8 hour TWA sample, or others who
must routinely wear respirators as a part of their
job. Additionally, it is important to understand the
reasons associated with each of the specific tests
that comprise an acceptable medical evaluation
program.
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PROTECTING THE WORKER:
RESPIRATORS AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING
Objective: To provide a detailed discussion of the use, maintenance and
limitations of respiratory protection and protective clothing.
Learning Tasks: Information in this section should enable participants to:
CCSJ3" Identify the need for effective respiratory protection for
asbestos abatement personnel.
CC3T7 Understand the operating principles of selected respirators used
for protection against asbestos.
CCSP Recognize the use and limitations of various types of respirators.
Understandjthe importance of properly fitting the respirator.
Become familiar with the concept of protection factors and how
they relate to respirator selection and use.
Understand the basic requirements of an effective respiratory
protection program.
Recognize the need for and proper use of protective clothing and
equipment.
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Working and breathing in some environments can
pose a hazard to workers' health. Inhalation of some
substances can cause immediate or quick injury to
the respiratory system or other major organ systems
of the body. Carbon monoxide and some paint
solvents are examples of relatively quick-acting
substances. The injuries/illnesses caused by other
contaminants may not be obvious for years or even
decades. Asbestos and other cancer-causing agents
fall into this category of long latency (developing)
periods.
Respirators are commonly used to help protect
against these inhalation hazards, especially on
asbestos abatement projects. However, the protec-
tion program is not nearly as simple as choosing a
respirator, giving it to an employee, and expecting
them to get adequate protection. There is a need to
have and apply knowledge about lung structure and
function; hazard recognition, evaluation and control;
government regulations; and human characteristics.
There are three ways hazardous materials can enter
the body:
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o Through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract
o Through the skin (or cause harmful effects
to the skin)
o Through the respiratory system
Fortunately, asbestos does not appear to pose any
significant degree of hazard through the skin and GI
routes of entry. Unfortunately, it can cause several
diseases when it enters through the lungs.
The respiratory system is a gaseous (air) pump with
a series of airways leading from the nose and mouth
down into the air sacs (alveoli) where there is an
exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. At the air
sacs, oxygen enters the blood and carbon dioxide
exits the blood.
The main components of the respiratory system
going from top to bottom are:
o Nose
o Mouth
o Throat
o Larynx (voice box)
o Trachea ("windpipe")
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o Bronchi (branches from trachea)
o Alveoli (air sacs)
o Diaphragm and chest muscles
Airways of the upper respiratory tract (trachea
through bronchi) are lined with cilia -- hair-like
protrusions covered with a sheet of mucous. These
cilia are constantly sweeping upward quickly, then
down slowly, and thus moving the mucous and
trapped materials up at a rate of approximately one
inch per minute. This is an important clearance
mechanism which serves to remove large particulate
matter from the lungs. Particles are brought back
up to the throat where they are swallowed or
expectorated.
Unfortunately, smoking retards this cleansing
mechanism of the lungs by causing paralysis of the
cilia. A few "puffs" on a cigarette drastically
reduces the cilia motion. Smoking several ciga-
rettes retards the cilia for several hours, often
taking an overnight period for them to recover.
This paralyzing effect may be one of the main
reasons the combination of smoking and asbestos
exposure is so hazardous.
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Down past the bronchi are the alveoli. These air
sacs are intimately surrounded by a vast network of
blood capillaries through which gas exchange occurs
(oxygen in and carbon dioxide out). Oxygenated
blood is then delivered to the heart where it is
pumped to millions of tissue cells throughout the
body.
Thus the heart and lungs are highly dependent upon
each other in the process of getting oxygen into the
body. When the lungs become restricted, damaged
or ineffective, the heart must work harder. Bad
cases of asbestosis often result in death by heart
attack. Also, the wearing of respirators can be too
much of a strain for some people (a few), and thus it
is necessary to check this possibility before assign-
ing or wearing a respirator.
The body's need for oxygen varies, so the breathing
rate varies as does the heart rate. Respiratory
rates tend to fall into ranges according to the level
of activity:
Resting: 5-7 liters per minute
(5,000-7,000 *cc per minute)
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Working
Moderately: 25-30 liters per minute
(25,000-30,000 *cc per minute)
Exercising
Strenuously: 100-150 liters per minute
(100,000-150,000 *cc per minute)
*Cubic centimeters (same cc as when referring
to fibers per cc).
These breathing rates are useful in determining how
many fibers (asbestos) workers breath in during
different periods and exposure conditions. For
example, a worker (without a respirator) breathing
at a rate of 25,000 cubic centimeters (cc) per
minute, in an area for 480 minutes (8 hours) where
the fiber levels are two fibers per cubic centimeter
(2 f/cc), would breath in 24 million fibers.
Calculated as follows:
25,000 cc/min x 480 min x 2 f/cc = 24,000,000 fibers
The same calculation method can be used for other
breathing rates, exposure periods, and fiber counts.
Respiratory hazards are generally divided into two
categories — toxic contaminants and oxygen
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deficiency. The potential for either or both must be
considered when addressing respiratory protection.
Normal air contains about 21 percent (20.9%)
oxygen. For breathing purposes, air should not
contain less than 19.5 percent or more than 23.5
percent oxygen. Oxygen deficiency generates a
variety of symptoms, ranging from increased
breathing and pulse rate to unconsciousness and
death.
Asbestos abatement projects generally do not pose
oxygen deficiency hazards. However, since there
are abatement projects and circumstances where it
can be a problem, it must always be considered. For
example, there could be an oxygen deficiency prob-
lem while working in steam tunnels, mechanical
chases, or boilers. It is also a consideration during
the use of Type C supplied-air respirators (discussed
in the next section of the notebook). Failing to
consider oxygen deficiency could result in a quick
fatality on an asbestos abatement project.
Toxic contaminants are the more common category
of respiratory hazards on asbestos abatement jobs.
Those toxic contaminants are generally subdivided
into two categories, particulates and gaseous
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materials (or a combination of the two). Asbestos
fibers are an example of the paniculate subcategory
and carbon monoxide is an example of the gaseous
subcategory. It is possible to have both these
hazardous substances, plus others (such as encapsu-
lant solvents) in a work area at the same time.
As mentioned earlier, the effects of these contami-
nants can develop quickly or slowly, and they can be
mild or fatal. For example, mesothelioma (special
cancer of lung or abdomen linings) may take 20 to
45 years to develop, but once it is detected, it
causes death within a year. Severe exposure to
carbon monoxide can cause death within a few
minutes, or may leave no residual damage if
promptly detected and treated.
Acceptable limits of exposure for respiratory
hazards are based on values documented through
research by such organizations as the American
Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists
(ACGIH), the National Institute for Occupational
Health and Safety (NIOSH), the Occupational Safety
and Health Administration (OSHA), and others.
These organizations publish Permissible Exposure
Limits (PELs) and Threshold Limit Values (TLVs™)
for a variety of toxic substances.
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The limits are expressed for exposure durations,
usually a full work shift. For example, the current
OSHA limits for exposure to carbon monoxide are 50
parts per million (PPM) in workplace air and 20 PPM
in air supplied to Type C respirators. The current
limits and recommended guidelines for asbestos
exposure range from 2 f/cc (OSHA) down to 0.01
f/cc or lower (generally accepted "clearance level"
in abatement industry).
The control of respiratory hazards often involves
three steps:
o assessing the hazards
o reducing or eliminating the hazards
o providing respiratory protective equipment
The asbestos abatement industry is actually based
on these first two steps. Buildings and structures
are surveyed to assess potential asbestos hazards.
When a potential asbestos hazard exists, a group or
contractor is called upon to reduce or eliminate the
hazard through removal, encapsulation, or
enclosure. Thus the third step, respirators, are
generally avoided for the building occupants.
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However, the removal, encapsulation, and enclosure
work has a high potential for respiratory hazards.
Thus, the steps of assessing hazards, reducing
hazards, and providing respiratory protection must
be used again.
Hazard assessment during the abatement work
involves a variety of visual inspections. For
example, barriers are checked for confinement,
asbestos materials are checked for wetness, and
surfaces are inspected for asbestos contamination.
And, quite importantly, a variety of air samples are
collected for asbestos fibers. Sampling locations
include outside the barrier, in the work area, and on
the workers. The results of the samples from the
work area and workers are used to assure proper
hazard reduction/elimination techniques, and more
importantly, to choose proper respirators for the
workers.
Several hazard reduction techniques are used inside
the abatement area, including wetting with amended
water, using negative air machines, prompt bagging
of removal materials, wet cleaning and HEPA
vacuuming. These techniques do reduce the air-
borne fiber concentrations during removal projects,
but they cannot get them down to the 0.01 f/cc
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level which is generally desired and specified. Thus,
the employer (contractor) must proceed to the third
hazard control step and provide proper respirators
and an adequate respirator program for the workers.
The respirators must be selected and the program
established based on OSHA standards, the actual or
anticipated air sampling results, and other guide-
lines (i.e., respirator manufacturers).
As required by the OSHA respirator standard (29
CFR 19.10.134), only approved respirators should be
considered during the selection process. And, the
respirators must be approved for protection against
the specific hazard — asbestos, for example. The
National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) is the testing agency to see if a
respirator model can receive approval. If the entire
respirator assembly, including cartridges/filters/
hoses, passes their test, then they and the Mine
Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) issue a
joint NIOSH/MSHA approval number for that
specific respirator assembly. Here are two
examples of approval labels printed on the literature
for two respirators.
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ON
•P-
PERMISSIBLE
CHEMICAL CARTRIDGE RESPIRATOR FOR
ORGANIC VAPORS, DUSTS, FUMES, MISTS
AND RADIONUCLIDES
MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION
NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH
d StitH O«p*'lmtnl ot Lit
MSHAI APPROVAL NO.
TC-23C-243
Mine S*taty and Hum Administration
NIOSH
Iw (kc4^jT«ul Siltly nit Hi
ISSUED TO
LIMITATIONS
Approved for respiratory protection against not more than 1,000 parts per million organic
vapors by volume, dusts, fumes, and mists having a time weighted average less than 0.05
milligram per cubic meter, asbestos-containing dusts and mists and radionuclides.
Do not wear for protection against organic vapors with poor warning properties or those which
generate high heats of reaction with sorbent material in the cartridge. Maximum use concentra-
tions will be lower than 1,000 parts per million organic vapors where that concentration
produces atmospheres immediately dangerous to life or health.
Not for'use in atmospheres containing less than 19.5 percent oxygen.
Not for use in atmospheres immediately dangerous to life or health.
CAUTION
In making renewals or repairs, parts identical with those furnished by the manufacturer under
the pertinent approval shall be maintained.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for changing cartridges.
This respirator shall be selected, fined, used, and maintained in accordance with the Mine
Safety and Health Administration, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and other
applicable regulations.
MSHA—NIOSH Approval TC-23C-243
Issued to March 10,1983
The approved half-mask facepiece respirator assembly for organic vapors, dust, fumes, mists
and radionuclides consists of the following parts: 7-201-1,7-201-2, or 7-201-3 facepiece
and 461973 (TC-23C-243) cartridges.
PERMISSIBLE
RESPIRATOR FOR DUSTS, FUMES, MISTS
AND RADIONUCLIDES
MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION
NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH
MSHA
APPROVAL NO.
TC-21C-135
NIOSH
Iw OtcuMiKMu' Wet, «t H.
ISSUED TO
LIMITATIONS
Approved for respiratory protection against dusts, fumes and mists having a time weighted
average less than 0.05 milligram per cubic meter, asbestos-containing dusts and mists and
radionuclides.
Not for use in atmospheres containing less than 19.5 percent oxygen.
Not for entry into atmospheres immediately dangerous to life or health.
CAUTION
In making renewals or repairs, parts identical with those furnished by the manufacturer under
the pertinent approval shall be maintained.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for changing cartridges.
This respirator shall be selected, fitted, used, and maintained in accordance with the Mine
Safety and Health Administration, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and other
applicable regulations.
MSHA—NIOSH Approval TC-21C-135
Issued to June 29,1983
The approved half mask facepiece respirator assembly for dusts, fumes, mists and radionuclides
consists of the following parts: 449703, 7-201-1, 7-201-2, or 7-201-3 facepiece and
459322 or 465312 (TC-21C-135) filters.
The approved half-mask facepiece with belt-mounted filter respirator assembly for dusts, fumes,
mists and radionuclides consists of the following parts: 7-202-1, 7-202-2 or 7-202-3
facepiece, breathing tube and plenum assembly and 459322 or 465312 (TC-21C-135) filters.
-------
The first label is for a respirator model with high
efficiency screw in cartridges, such as might be
used for protection against airborne asbestos fibers.
The approval number assigned by NIOSH for this
specific manufacturer and model is TC-21C-135
(see label). The "TC" indicates "tested and
certified"; the "-21C" indicates what style/category
of respirator it is; and, the "-135" is a unique
number assigned to this specific manufacturer and
model.
The second label is for a chemical cartridge respira-
tor such as might be used during encapsulating or
spray painting. Note it has both a different
style/category number, and its own assigned
number. There are three major classes/categories
of respirators, plus subcategories for each category.
The major categories are:
o Air-Purifying
o Air-Supplied
o Self-Contained
AIR-PURIFYING RESPIRATOR
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Air purifying respirators remove limited concentra-
tions of air contaminants from the breathing air, but
do nothing to improve (or change) the oxygen con-
tent. Thus, they can only be used in atmospheres
where there is enough oxygen, and where air
contaminants do not exceed the specified range of
the respirator and cartridge.
These respirators generally consist of a soft, rubber
facepiece and some kind of replaceable filter or
cartridge. Two major subcategories of air purifying
respirators are the mechanical filter type and the
chemical cartridge type. The mechanical filter
variety is designed to protect against particulate
matter such as dust and asbestos fibers. The
chemical cartridge variety is used to protect against
light concentrations of chemicals, such as solvent
vapors. There are even combination models
approved for both types of protection. Respirator
face pieces (including those for the air-purifying
category) are used to further describe specific
subcategories, based on the construction and face
coverage. The major subcategories are:
o Single-Use (Disposable)
o Half Mask
o Full Face
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The following diagram shows a Single-Use
(Disposable) type air-purifying respirator.
Single-Use Respirator
This type respirator is available in both approved
and unapproved model. Some are even approved for
asbestos. However, NIOSH has issued a notice
stating that in spite of their required approval, they
do not recommend them for protection against
asbestos -- a proven human carcinogen. Thus, many
industrial hygienists, safety professionals, manufac-
turers and trained individuals strongly recommend
against this type respirator for protection against
asbestos.
The next diagram shows a Half-Mask type air-
purifying respirator. It also shows some of the
common components.
Half-mask
Respirator
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It is called a half-mask because it covers half of the
face -- from under the chin to the bridge of the
nose. Most, but not all, half-mask respirators are
NIOSH/MSHA approved. It is still necessary to
choose the correct approved model for the identi-
fied air contaminant. Note the respirator
components and the correct position for the head
and neck strap.
This diagram shows a Full-face type air-purifying
respirator. It also shows some of its components.
Full Facepiece
Respirator
It is called a full-face type because it covers from
under the chin up to the forehead. This broader
coverage provides a better face fit, higher degree of
protection, and gives some eye protection. Many
full-face respirators have four or more straps.
Regardless of the nuinber of straps, the respirator
should be put on by placing the chin into the chin
cup, then tightening the straps going from the
bottom to the top.
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A relatively new (last 5-10 years) and special
subcategory of air-purifying respirator is the
Powered Air Purifying (PAPR) type. It has received
considerable use on asbestos abatement proejcts,
but now that use seems to be declining in favor of
other types of respirators.
POWERED AIR PURIFYING RESPIRATOR
(PAPR)
The previously described air-purifying respirators
depend on breathing energy to draw the air in
through the respirator cartridge or filter. However,
these PAPR units use a battery-powered blower that
passes the contaminated air through the cartridge or
filter where the air is cleaned and forced through a
hose to the facepiece. The face covering can be a
half-mask, full-face mask, helmet (hat), or hood.
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An advantage of using a powered air-purifying respi-
rator is that is supplies air at a positive pressure
within the facepiece, helmet, or hood, so that any
leak is hopefully outward. Therefore, they provide a
higher degree of protection than do half-mask and
full-face air-purifying respirators.
Powered respirators must deliver at least four cubic
feet of air per minute (4 CFM) to a tight-fitting
facepiece and at least 7 CFM to a loose-fitting
helmet or hood. They are reportedly designed to
operate a full shift, but after repeated rugged use,
some seem to need recharging or a new battery
during the shift. This issue of operating duration
has contributed to their declining use.
Air Purifying was the first listed category of respi-
rator and Air-Supplied is the second category.
AIR-SUPPLIED RESPIRATOR
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Air-supplied respirators deliver breathing air
through a supply hose connected to the worker's
facepiece (half mask or full face). This category of
respirator is becoming the most important type on
asbestos abatement jobs for several reasons:
o the OSHA asbestos standard (29 CFR
1910.1001) requires jobs be started with
them
o they provide a very high degree of protec-
tion
o they are often required by the contract
specifications.
Because of their importance and complexity, an
entire section of this notebook is devoted to
"Type C Air-Supplied" respirators. Thus, there is no
need for further discussion in this section, other
than to mention them as the second major category
of respirators.
The third and last major category is the Self-
Contained Respirator.
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SELF-CONTAINED RESPIRATOR
Self-contained respirators provide protection for
various periods of time depending upon the amount
of breathing air (air pressure and tank size) and the
breathing demands of the wearer. The worker is
independent of his/her surrounding atmosphere when
using these devices; therefore, they can be used in
environments immediately harmful to life.
However, since they have several disadvantages,
they are seldom used on asbestos abatement jobs,
except by some inspectors. They are heavy and
awkward to wear. The air supply usually lasts only
30 to 60 minutes, thus requiring a large supply of
filled tanks onsite. They require more worker
training than the other types of respirators.
However, none of the respirators are simple to
select and use. They all require a detailed respi-
rator program.
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RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM
Any employer who requires or permits employees to
wear a respirator must have a written respiratory
protection program. This is required by OSHA in
their asbestos standard (29 CFR 1910.1001, copy
attached as Appendix A of this manual) and respira-
tory protection regulations (29 CFR 1910.134, copy
included in this section). The written respirator
program establishes standard operating procedures
for the asbestos abatement contractor concerning
the use and maintenance of respiratory equipment.
In addition to having such a written program, the
contractor must also be able to demonstrate that
the program is enforced and updated as necessary.
The OSHA regulations spell out just what must be
included in a written program. Additionally, below,
those items have been highlighted and discussed
with special emphasis on applications to asbestos
abatement work.
Designation of a Program Administrator
A program administrator must be designated by
name. This person is responsible for implementation
of and adherence to the provisions of the respiratory
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protection program. It is usually a good idea to also
designate each person who is responsible for
enforcement of the procedures at the job site. This
is usually the site superintendent or foreman.
Procedures should also be outlined for enforcement
of the program.
Enforcement procedures and the development of the
program as a whole should be done in conjunction
with and input from the employees and/or their
representative(s). Documentation should be main-
tained on any enforcement actions. This might
include copies of written reprimands, evidence of
docking a salary or dismissal for not complying with
the program. Conversely, it is a wise idea to reward
those employees who adhere to the program require-
ments.
SELECTION AND USE OF RESPIRATORY
PROTECTION EQUIPMENT
Respirators used shall be selected from those
approved by the Mine Safety and Health Administra-
tion (MSHA) or the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) for use in
atmospheres containing asbestos fibers. A NIOSH
approved respirator contains the following: an
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assigned identification number placed on each unit;
a label identifying the type of hazard the respirator
is designed to protect against; additional informa-
tion on the label which indicates limitations and
identifies the component parts approved for use
with the basic unit.
Although some single-use disposable dust masks are
"approved" by NIOSH for use with asbestos, they
should not be used on asbestos abatement projects.
NIOSH itself has stated clearly that they do not
consider this form of respirator to be adequate
protection.
As a rule of thumb, air-purifying respirators may be
used during the propping stage of an abatement
project and during final clean-up (wiping down walls
and floors after polyethylene is removed.) Supplied-
air respirators are normally used during actual
removal and gross clean-up. Air-purifying may be
used for glovebag work and disposal at the landfill.
MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE
Only those individuals who are medically able to
wear respiratory protective equipment shall be
issued one. Before being issued a respirator, an
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employee will receive pertinent tests for medical
and physical conditions. Medical tests to be con-
sidered by a physician include: pulmonary function
tests (FVC and FEV), chest X-ray, electrocardio-
gram, and any others deemed appropriate by the
examining physician. Medical factors to be con-
sidered by a physician include: emphysema, asthma,
chronic bronchitis, heart disease, anemia,
hemophilia, poor eyesight, poor hearing, hernia, lack
of use of fingers or hands, epileptic seizures, and
other factors which might inhibit the ability of an
employee to wear respiratory equipment.
Establishing a medical surveillance program is dis-
cussed in greater detail in Section VII of this
manual.
FIT-TESTING
Any employee who is assigned a respirator must be
given the opportunity to wear the respirator and be
qualitatively fit-tested. The qualitative fit-test is
used to determine the fit of the respirator to the
face of the individual employee. A more detailed
quantitative fit-test may be conducted instead.
Methods of fit-testing are discussed elsewhere in
this section.
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RESPIRATOR ASSIGNMENT AND MAINTENANCE
Where practicable, respirators should be assigned to
individual workers for their exclusive use. A system
of recordkeeping should be established to document
all employees who have respiratory protection
equipment, and the periodic cleaning and mainte-
nance of equipment.
Respirators shall be regularly cleaned and disin-
fected. Those issued for the exclusive use of one
worker shall be cleaned after each day's use, or
more often, if necessary. Those used by more than
one worker shall be thoroughly cleaned and disin-
fected after each use. This procedure is described
as follows:
1. Before leaving the work area, each user must
shower with the respirator on to remove any
asbestos-containing material which may have
settled on the equipment.
2. Respiratory equipment shall be washed with
detergent in warm water using a brush. If
possible, detergents containing a bactericide
should be used. Organic solvents should not be
used, as they deteriorate the rubber facepiece.
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If bactericide detergent is not available, the
detergent wash should be followed with a disin-
fecting rinse. Two types of disinfectants may
be made from readily available household solu-
tions. A hypochlorite solution (50 ppm) can be
made by adding two tablespoons of chlorine
bleach to one gallon of water. An aqueous
solution of iodine (50 ppm) can be made by
adding one teaspoon tincture of iodine to one
gallon of water. A two minute immersion of
the respirator into either solution would be
sufficient for disinfection.
3. Respiratory equipment should be thoroughly
rinsed in warm clean water (120°F maximum)
to remove all traces of detergent, cleaner and
sanitizer, and disinfectant.
4. Respiratory equipment should be allowed to air
dry on a clean surface or hung from a horizon-
tal wire.
When not in use, respiratory equipment should be
sealed in plastic bags and stored in a single layer
with the facepiece and exhalation valve in a non-
distorted position. A metal cabinet with shelves is
well suited for this purpose.
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Repair or replacement of component parts must be
done by qualified individuals. Substitution of parts
from a different brand or type of respirator will
invalidate the approval of the respirator.
Inspection for defects in respiratory equipment must
be done before and after each use and during
cleaning. The primary defects to look for in the
inspection of component parts of the respirator and
corrective actions where appropriate are itemized
below:
1. Air purifying respirators (quarter-mask, half-
mask, and full facepiece)
a. Rubber facepiece - check for:
excessive dirt (clean all dirt from
facepiece)
cracks, tears, or holes (obtain new
facepiece)
distortion (allow facepiece to "sit"
free from any constraints and see if
distortion disappears; if not, obtain
new facepiece), and
cracked, scratched, or loose-fitting
lenses (contact respirator manufac-
turer to see if replacement is possible;
otherwise obtain new facepiece).
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b. Headstraps - check for:
breaks or tears (replace head-
straps)
loss of elasticity (replace head-
straps)
broken or malfunctioning buckles
or attachments (obtain new
buckles), and
allow the facepiece to slip
(replace headstrap)
c. Inhalation valve, exhalation valve -
check for:
detergent residue, dust particles,
or dirt on valve or valve seat
(clean residue with soap and
water)
cracks, tears, or distortion in the
valve material or valve seat (con-
tact manufacturer for instruc-
tions), and
missing or defective valve cover
(obtain valve cover from manu-
facturer).
d. Filter element(s) - check for:
proper filter for the hazard
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approval designation
missing or worn gaskets (contact
manufacturer for replacement)
worn threads - both filter threads and
facepiece threads (replace filter or
facepiece, whichever is applicable)
cracks or dents in filter housing
(replace filter), and
missing or loose hose clamps (obtain
new clamps)
2. Atmosphere-Supplying Respirators
a. Check facepiece, headstraps, valves, and
breathing tube, as for air-purifying respira-
tors.
b. Hood, helmet, blouse, or full suit, if applic-
able - check for:
headgear suspension (adjust properly
for you)
cracks or breaks in faceshield (replace
faceshield), and
protective screen to see that it is
intact and fits correctly over the
faceshield, abrasive blasting hoods,
and blouses (obtain new screen)
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c. Air supply system - check for:
breathing air quality
breaks or kinks in air supply hoses and
end fitting attachments (replace hose
and/or fitting)
tightness of connections
proper setting of regulators and valves
(consult manufacturer's recommenda-
tions), and
correct operation of air-purifying
elements and carbon monoxide or
high-temperature alarms
EMPLOYEE TRAINING PROGRAM
Each employee designated to wear a respirator must
receive adequate training. The training session
(initial and periodic retraining) should be conducted
by a qualified individual to ensure that employees
understand the limitations, use, and maintenance of
respiratory equipment. Copies of the NIOSH
Employer Respirator Manual and the NIOSH
Employee Respirator Manual are included in
Appendices C and D of this notebook for guidance.
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SURVEILLANCE OF WORKING CONDITIONS
Personal air sampling, discussed in Section XIII,
should be conducted during each asbestos abatement
project. The employer must be able to document
that the respiratory protection in use provides
adequate protection for the employees in the air-
borne asbestos levels encountered.
Employees should receive instruction regarding
emergency procedures. Normally, these instructions
include immediately leaving the work area should
they experience difficulty in breathing or dizziness.
Finally, no employee wearing a respirator should
ever work alone.
RESPIRATOR PROGRAM EVALUATION AND
RECORDKEEPING
The respirator program shall be evaluated at least
annually with program adjustments, as appropriate,
made to reflect the evaluation results. Compliance
to the aforementioned points of the program should
be reviewed; respirator selection, purchase of
approved equipment, medical screening of
employees, fit testing, issuance of equipment and
associated maintenance, storage, repair and inspec-
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tion, appropriate surveillance of work area condi-
tions.
Attention should be given to proper recordkeeping.
Records which should be kept include: employees
who are trained in respirator use, documentation of
the care and maintenance of respirators, medical
reports of each respirator user, airborne concentra-
tions of asbestos fibers during work, and any prob-
lems encountered during abatement projects with
regards to respiratory equipment.
RESPIRATORY FIT-TESTING
One of the most important elements of an effective
respirator program is fit-testing. In fact, the OSHA
respirator standard (29 CFR 1910.134) requires that
the fit of respirators be determined when the respi-
rators are issued and that the employees check the
fit each time they put the respirator on. These are
valid requirements since the weakest point of pro-
tection for a respirator is leakage around the face
seal/fit.
There are two major categories of fit testing,
qualitative (pass/fail basis) and quantitative (scien-
tific measure basis). Then there are several
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methods within both major categories. Only those
considered most applicable to asbestos abatement
will be presented in this section.
During any type fit-testing, the respirator straps
must be properly located and as comfortable as
possible. Over tightening the straps will sometimes
reduce facepiece leakage, but the wearer may be
unable to tolerate the respirator during the work
period. The facepiece should not press into the face
and shut off blood circulation or cause major dis-
comfort. At the time of respirator issuance, a
visual inspection of the fit should always be made by
a second person. That person should check to see
that there are not visible openings/leaks (around the
nose, for example) and that the respirator appears
properly adjusted and comfortable.
Qualitative (pass/fail) tests are fast, require no
complicated, expensive equipment, and are easily
performed. However, they depend on the wearer's
response, and thus are not entirely reliable.
Negative Pressure Test. For this test, the user
closes off the inlet of the cartridges or filters by
covering with the palms or squeezing the breathing
tube so it does not allow air to pass; inhales gently
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so the facepiece collapses slightly; and holds his/her
breath for about 10 seconds.
NEGATIVE PRESSURE TEST
If the facepiece remains slightly collapsed and no
inward leakage is detected, the respirator probably
fits tightly enough. This test, of course, can only be
used on respirators with tight-fitting facepieces. It
also has potential drawbacks, such as the hand
pressure modifying the facepiece seal and causing
false results.
Positive Pressure Test. This test is very similar in
principle to the negative pressure test. It is con-
ducted by closing off/covering the exhalation valve
and exhaling gently into the facepiece. The respira-
tor fit is considered okay if slight positive pressure
can be built up inside the facepiece without any
evidence of outward leakage around the facepiece.
For some respirators, this test requires that the
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wearer remove the exhalation valve cover. This
removal often disturbs the respirator fit if not done
before the respirator is put on. The test is easy for
respirators whose valve cover has a single small port
that can be closed by the palm or a finger.
Irritant Smoke Test. Once the asbestos abatement
worker has passed the visual, negative pressure, and
positive pressure tests, they can be tested with
irritant smoke. It can be used for both air-purifying
and air-supplied respirators. However, an air-
purifying respirator must have high-efficiency
filters. The test substance is an irritant smoke
(stannic chloride or titanium tetrachlorite). Sealed
glass and plastic tubes with substances to generate
this smoke are available from safety supply
companies. When the tube ends are broken and air
passed through them with a squeeze bulb, a dense
irritating smoke is emitted.
For this test, the user enters the test enclosures
(often a clear, suspended plastic bag) and the irri-
tant smoke is sprayed/squeezed into the test hole.
If the wearer detects any irritant smoke inside the
respirator, it means a defective fit, and adjustments
or replacement of the respirator is required. This
test has a distinct advantage in that the wearer
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usually reacts involuntarily to leakage by coughing
or sneezing. The likelihood of merely pretending to
pass the fit test is very low.
Note: The irritant smoke test must be performed
with caution because the aerosol in highly irritating
to the eyes, skin and mucous membranes. With half-
mask facepieces, the eyes must be kept closed.
IRRITANT SMOKE TEST ENCLOSURE
Hangers
Cotton Wad
Test Hole
Plastic Bag
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The negative pressure, positive pressure, and irri-
tant smoke fit tests are all qualitative (pass/fail)
type methods. They can and should be performed at
the abatement job site.
There are more scientific methods of determining
the fit of a respirator. Those methods are called
quantitative fit tests. In fact, these quantitative fit
tests are the methods used to determine a respira-
tor's scientific and published degree of protection
(protection factor).
Quantitative fit-testing requires a test substance
which can be generated into the air, specialized
equipment to measure the airborne concentration of
the substances and a trained tester. A sodium
chloride solution (salt/water) or mineral oil are
usually the substances of choice. As shown in the
diagram, the test subject wearing a respirator is
placed into a chamber which contains the test
substance in the air. The airborne concentration of
the substance is measured outside the respirator and
inside the respirator while the wearer performs
several work-related activities. The specific degree
of protection (protection factor) can be determined
for that wearer/respirator combination by perform-
ing calculations with the measured concentrations.
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QUANTITATIVE FIT TESTING
Quantitative fit testing is usually performed in a
laboratory under research conditions. However,
portable fit-testing units are now available and
some organizations will come to the job site and
perform quantitative fit tests on workers. Such
testing will probably become even more common
because of specification requirements, insurance
demands, and potential lawsuits. These tests usually
show that most workers receive much better protec-
tion than the standard protection factors published
and quoted for respirators. Quantitative fit-testing
usually costs $25-50 per worker, depending on
several factors such as how many workers are to be
tested at one site.
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Regardless of the type fit test, its advantages and
disadvantages, it is necessary to include such a test
in an effective respirator program. It is the key to
detecting and correcting contaminant leakage
around the facepiece to face seal. This leakage can
be critical when the contaminant is a proven human
carcinogen -- asbestos.
A more extensive description of fit-testing methods
is included in NIOSH's publication, "Respirator
Protection ... An Employer's Manual." That entire
publication is reproduced and included as
Appendix C of this notebook.
PROTECTION FACTORS
Respirators offer varying degrees of protection
against asbestos fibers. The key to understanding
the differences between types of respirators (air-
purifying, powered-air purifying, air-supplied, etc.)
is the amount of protection afforded the wearer. To
compare these, one must understand the concept of
a protection factor (PF).
A protection factor is a number obtained when the
concentration of a contaminant outside the mask is
divided by the concentration found inside the mask.
This simple formula is illustrated below.
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Protection Factor (PF) = Cone, outside mask
Cone, inside mask
The protection factor depends greatly on the fit of
the mask to the wearer's face. Accordingly, the
protection offered by any one respirator will be
different for each individual person. Further, the
protection constantly changes depending upon the
worker's activities and even shaving habits. When a
worker laughs or coughs inside a respirator, the
protection factor will decrease since the mask will
not "fit" as well during laughing or coughing.
Similarly, a worker who forgot to shave one morning
will not receive as much protection that day since
the mask will not fit as well to the face. The
importance of properly fitting the mask should now
be obvious.
It is virtually impossible to measure the concentra-
tion inside the mask (where the worker is breathing)
for each worker, all the time, during all the various
activities he or she may be conducting.
Accordingly, protection factors, based on extensive
research, have been developed for different cate-
gories of respirators. Using these protection
factors, it is easy to determine what type of respi-
rator is appropriate to maintain the concentration
of asbestos inside the mask below a certain level. If
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the assumption is made that 0.01 fibers per cubic
centimeter (f/cc) is the re-occupancy concentration
following an asbestos abatement project, then
workers should never be exposed above this level
inside the respirator.
Using established protection factors, the contractor
may select from Table VIII-1 the appropriate
respirator to maintain the concentration inside the
respirator below 0.01 f/cc. It should be noted that
the protection factors for powered-air purifying
respirators are estimated on the most recent data
available.
From this table, it should now be obvious why
supplied-air respirators are recommended for actual
removal and gross clean-up. Air-purifying respira-
tors may be used for most projects during propping
and final clean-up (after the polyethylene is taken
down). The importance of personal air sampling
should also now be obvious. If personal air sampling
has been conducted, and the employer wishes to
keep the fiber concentration inside the mask below
0.01 f/cc, he/she may plug the numbers into the
protection factor formula as illustrated below.
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TABLE VIII-1.
SUGGESTED RESPIRATOR SELECTION FOR PROTECTION
AGAINST ASBESTOS WHEN PROPERLY FITTED FOR
USE AND PROPERLY MAINTAINED
Respirator Selection
PF
Maximum airborne fiber concentration
outside the respirator to maintain
exposure inside the respirator below
0.01 fibers/cc
High efficiency cartridge
filter type (half mask)
High efficiency cartridge
filter type (full face mask)
10
50
Powered-air purifying (PAPR) (50-150)*
helmet type
Powered-air purifying (PAPR) (100-200)*
tight-fitting half mask
Powered-air purifying (PAPR) (200-300)*
tight-fitting full face mask
Type C continuous-flow
supplied air (half mask)
Type C continuous-flow
supplied air (full face or
hood type)
Pressure-demand self-
contained breathing
apparatus (SCBA)
1,000
2,000
10,000
0.1 fibers/cc
0.5 fibers/cc
10 fibers/cc
20 fibers/cc
100 fibers/cc
*Note: Studies are currently underway by NIOSH and others to estimate the
protection factors for PAPRs. Values supplied are conservative
estimates for properly operated units.
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Example: Personal air sampling indicates the fiber
concentration outside the mask is 3.5 f/cc (8-hour,
time-weighted average). Then:
r, . .. c ,. KI j j 3.5 f/cc outside mask
Protection Factor Needed =
0.1 f/cc desired inside mask
Protection Factor Needed = 350
By going to the table, any respirator with a protec-
tion factor above 350 (or 500 to leave a margin for
error) should maintain the fiber concentration inside
the mask below 0.10 f/cc.
Example: The employer may also use the protection
factor formula to estimate concentrations inside the
mask if the personal sampling results are available.
If a worker's personal sample for an 8-hour workday
was 2.7 fibers/cc and he wore an full-face supplied-
air respirator, what is his estimated exposure inside
the mask?
„ . .. , Cone, outside mask
Cone, in the mask =
Cone, in the mask =
protection factor of mask
2.7 f/cc (8-hour, TWA)
2000
Cone, in the mask = 0.001 f/cc (8-hour, TWA)
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Accordingly, if the worker wore the respirator prop-
erly fitted and maintained, his exposure should have
been well below 0.01 f/cc (8-hour, TWA).
It should be noted that protection factors should
only be used when the respirator is properly fitted,
maintained, and used as intended. It should also be
noted that protection factors for a specific model
(and size) of respirator may be estimated for each
employee if quantitative fit-testing is performed for
each worker. This is discussed in the fit-testing
part of this section.
PROTECTING THE WORKER: CLOTHING
It is first important to understand why protective
clothing is worn during asbestos abatement work.
The primary reason is to keep gross amounts of
asbestos-containing debris off the body, hair, etc.
The use of protective clothing and showers will
minimize the chance of bringing asbestos out of the
work area and into the home. Protective clothing
will also minimize the chance of rashes and discom-
fort caused by the material being removed. In
addition to the asbestos, frequently the material
being removed contains mineral wool, fiberglass,
and binders such as cement. Each of these may be
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irritating to the skin. Continued direct contact with
asbestos has also been shown to cause "asbestos
warts." These warts often take months to heal and
occur more frequently if asbestos is trapped beneath
a watchband, or in other ways kept in close contact
with the skin.
Protective clothing for asbestos abatement projects
usually consists of disposable coveralls, foot cover-
ing and head covering. The foot and head covering
should be attached to the coveralls. This eliminates
the need to tape openings between garments, etc.
Tight fitting bathing suits are usually worn beneath
the coveralls. Nylon suits work well and can be
cleaned easily during showering. Gloves should be
worn when inside the work area.
Protective clothing does not include street clothes
(or shoes), T-shirts, blue jeans, sweat bands, knee-
pads, and socks. If any of these items are used
inside the work area, they should remain there until
the job is completed and disposed of as asbestos-
contaminated waste. Jewelry such as rings and ID
bracelets should not be worn in the work area.
Other protective clothing/items such as hard hats
and safety shoes/boots should remain in the work
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area for the duration of the project. Upon project
completion, these items can be cleaned, placed in a
plastic bag, labeled as containing asbestos, and
taken to the next project. If safety shoes/boots are
not used, it is wise to have workers wear rubber
soled, slip-on deck shoes. These remain in the work
area and are disposed of at the end of the project as
asbestos-containing waste. These deck shoes are
usually of canvas construction and are inexpensive
(about $10.00 per pair). It is a good idea to have
each worker mark his shoes and hard hat with
his/her name with permanent ink.
To summarize, listed below is a list of items nor-
mally worn by asbestos abatement employees.
o Disposable coveralls, disposable foot
covering, disposable head covering
o Nylon swim suit
o Slip-on deck shoes with non-skid rubber
soles
o Hard hat (as required)
o Gloves (cotton is practical)
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Eye protection (not needed if full face-
piece respirators are used)
The disposable coveralls, foot, and head coverings
are available from many sources and several
materials. Coveralls, with foot and head covering
attached usually cost about $3.00 each when
purchased in quantity. Separately, the coveralls
cost approximately $2.00, head covering about
$0.35, and foot covering about $0.50 per pair. It is
important to realize that many "bargain" prices may
not be a bargain at all. The less expensive coveralls
often use less material. Accordingly, coveralls
marked "XL" may be too small for many workers.
Be sure to check the construction of the coveralls as
well. Double stitching on seams will last longer, but
cost more.
A common problem on asbestos abatement projects
is a failure by contractors to purchase enough
coveralls for the project. Each worker must use a
new coverall (and foot and head covering if not
attached) each time he/she enters the work area.
Assuming two breaks and a lunch period, four cover-
alls will be needed each day by each worker.
Additional coveralls are usually needed for author-
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ized visitors (architect, industrial hygienist, etc.)
and to replace some that are torn to the point of
being unusable. As a rule of thumb, the contractor
may estimate the number of suits needed for a
project by the following formula.
5 x no. of workers x project duration (days) x 1.1 =
number of coveralls needed
As an example, a project lasting 48 days using a
crew of 8 workers and one job foreman will need the
following number of coveralls (estimated).
5x9 workers & foreman x 48 days x 1.1 =
2376 coveralls
Accordingly, the contractor should order 95 cases
(25 per case) of coveralls for the project. It should
be noted that the "1.1" factor in the above formula
provides a 10% surplus. This is often necessary for
project overruns. Further, when purchasing cover-
alls, large and extra large sizes be bought. These
can always be made to fit smaller employees.
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PUTTING PROTECTIVE CLOTHING ON
Protective clothing is put on in the clean room of
the decontamination unit before entering the work
area. The following sequence should be used.
1. All street clothes, including undergarments are
removed and stored in a clean, convenient loca-
tion. Bins or lockers work well for this. It is
usually wise to have a lockbox or other means
to protect valuables. This will discourage
employees from bringing wallets, rings, keys,
etc. into the work area.
2. The nylon swim suit is put on.
3. The disposable coveralls are put on.
4. If separate disposable foot coverings are used,
these are put on.
5. Ankles are taped to take up slack in the suits
and reduce the chance of tripping. (Tape pants
over foot coverings, if separate.)
6. The respiratory equipment is inspected, put on,
and the fit checked.
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7. The hood or head covering is put on over the
respirator head straps.
8. Worker passes through airlocks and shower to
contaminated equipment room.
9. Deck shoes are put on (or safety shoes/boots, as
required).
10. Gloves are put on (cotton gloves are usually
worn although leather gloves should be used for
handling metal lathe). The sleeves are taped
over the gloves using duct tape.
11. Other protective equipment such as hard hats
and safety glasses (if a half-face respirator is
used) are put on.
One person should remain outside the work area at
all times. It should be his/her responsibility to
ensure that each person entering the work area has
the proper protective clothing.
Once inside the work area, no employees, or others,
should be permitted to leave without going through
the decontamination sequence unless it is an
extreme emergency. A common problem is
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employees "stepping out" for a cigareete or super-
visors "stepping in" the work area to deliver a
message or piece of equipment. These activities
defeat the purpose of the protective equipment and
the decontamination sequence.
TAKING PROTECTIVE CLOTHING OFF
Whenever an employee or other person leaves a
work area for any reason, he/she must go through
the decontamination sequence. This sequence
should include the following steps.
1. Remove all protective garments and equipment
(except respirators) in an area immediately
outside the shower on the contaminated side.
An area should be designated for this purpose
and kept as free as practicable of asbestos-
contaminated material. All disposable clothing
should be placed in plastic bags inside a drum
and labeled as asbestos-containing waste.
2. The person should then clean reusable protec-
tive equipment such as boots/shoes, safety
glasses, hard hats, etc.
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3. The person should then proceed to the shower
still wearing his/her respirator. While shower-
ing, the person should be sure to soak the
respirator cartridges if they are not using sup-
plied air. The cartridges may then be discarded
in a plastic bag located at the shower.
4. The person should then proceed to the clean
room, dry off, dress in his/her street clothes,
and disinfect, clean, and inspect his/her respi-
rator. If air supply is not being used, new
cartridges should be placed in the respirator.
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ESTABLISHING A TYPE C SUPPLIED-AIR SYSTEM
Objective: To become familiar with the equipment, procedures, use, limitations,
and maintenance of an air supply respiratory protection system.
Learning Tasks: Information in this section should enable participants to:
fGSf Understand the reasons for using air-supplied respirators.
Recognize that breathing air must be processed and not simply
pumped.
Understand the mechanism by which air is compressed and
purified.
Become familiar with the need for air storage banks and proper
air delivery to the worker.
Gain an understanding of the many regulations and recommended
practices for providing breathing air.
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ESTABLISHING A TYPE C SUPPLIED-AIR SYSTEM
Good practices generally require the use of type C
supplied-air respirators on any asbestos removal
project. The OSHA regulations (29 CFR 1910.1001)
further require that type C respirators be used until
it has been conclusively proven by personal air
monitoring that a lesser form of respiratory protec-
tion will be adequate.
If the assumption is made that 0.01 fibers per cubic
centimeter (f/cc) will be the clearance level at the
conclusion of a removal project, the workers per-
forming the abatement work should not be exposed
to concentrations of asbestos fibers any greater
than this. The selection of appropriate respiratory
protection now becomes greatly simplified. Using
established protection factors (a ratio of the con-
centration outside the mask to that inside the
mask), maximum anticipated fiber levels outside the
respirator may be used to select the proper respira-
tory protection to reduce the concentration inside
the mask to 0.01 f/cc or below.
As a rule of thumb, cartridge filter respirators are
usually adequate protection for the worker during
work area preparation and final wipe-down following
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gross clean-up. Good practices require the use of
type C supplied-air respirators once gross removal
begins through gross clean-up of the work area.
A type C supplied-air system normally consists of a
compressor, air delivery lines, air cleaning appa-
ratus, a reserve air supply, and NIOSH-approved
masks. At a minimum, a type C system should
provide the following:
o A continuous sufficient supply of air
o Supplied air which meets Grade D require-
ments
o Adequate escape time
o Worker comfort and protection
o NIOSH-approved respirators and supply
hoses
GRADE D AIR
Grade D Air is the minimum quality for routine use
in supplied-air (or self-contained) breathing equip-
ment, as used in fire fighting, general industry, and
asbestos abatement projects where supplied-air
respirators are in use. There are other grades of air
purity including Grade E (minimum requirements for
sports diving to 125 feet) and Grade H. Each of
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these grades (E and H) are more stringent than
Grade D specifications. The Grade D air specifica-
tions were established by the Compressed Gas
Association, Inc. of New York and incorporated into
the OSHA regulation 29 CFR 1910.134 by reference.
The specifications themselves are contained in the
Compressed Gas Association (CGA) Pamphlet G-7,
entitled, "Compressed Air for Human Respiration."
These specifications are discussed briefly below.
Asbestos abatement contractors performing work in
Canada should be aware that breathing air must
meet considerably more stringent standards as
described in the Compressed Breathing Air Standard
Z180.1-1978. This may be obtained from the
Canadian Standards Association in Rexdale, Ontario,
Canada.
GRADE D BREATHING AIR REQUIREMENTS
Carbon Monoxide (CO) 20 parts per million
Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
1000 parts per million
Condensed Hydrocarbons 5 milligrams per cubic
meter
Objectionable Odors
None
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Water Vapor The CGA standard does
not specifically establish
a limit for moisture;
however, a limit of 66
parts per million is neces-
sary to assure proper
function of CO scrubbing
devices.
Normal air contains 20.9% oxygen. The oxygen
content in breathing air should always fall between
19.5% and 23.5%. Normally, the oxygen content is
only a consideration when purchasing bottled air
which has been manufactured. Since the oxygen
content of ambient air remains quite constant, and
compressing the air does not alter the oxygen con-
tent, there is little concern that the asbestos abate-
ment worker will be short of oxygen.
Perhaps the greatest concern when dealing with
type C supplied-air systems is the generation or
presence of carbon monoxide. This contaminant
may be introduced into the breathing air through
compressor malfunction or, more commonly, it may
be drawn into the compressor directly. Carbon
monoxide can be produced by the compressor if it
overheats. The overheating causes the lubricating
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oil to break down with carbon monoxide being
released. For this reason, high temperature alarms
are often installed on compressors. OSHA requires
that oil-lubricated compressors shall have a high-
temperature or carbon monoxide alarm, or both. If
only a high temperature alarm is used, the air from
the compressor shall be frequently tested for carbon
monoxide.
One alternative is to use an oil-free compressor to
eliminate the chance of oil breakdown if the com-
pressor overheats. However, oilless compressors
usually require more frequent servicing and the
synthetic materials used may release gaseous con-
taminants if the compressor overheats. (Note: The
Canadian Standards Association has established a
limit of 2 ppm in compressed breathing air for each
of the following: trichlorotrifluoroethane, dichloro-
difluoromethane, and chlorodifluoromethane.)
To avoid drawing carbon monoxide into the com-
pressor directly, an extension intake flexible duct
should be used to place the air intake at a remote
location. The location chosen should be away from
any combustion sources (i.e., vehicle exhausts,
smokestacks, etc.). Frequently, the best location is
15 or 20 feet up in a tree since it would be unlikely
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that a truck or car, lawnmower or other carbon
monoxide producing vehicle could affect the supply
air. Be sure to place a course filter (screen) over
the air inlet to keep leaves, bugs, etc., from being
drawn into the compressor.
Contractor supervisors should be aware of any other
potential sources of toxic gases near the air intake.
This would be especially important in industrial
settings where gases are commonplace.
Contaminants not listed in the specifications for
Grade D air should not exceed one-tenth of the
Threshold Limit Values (TLVs) for Chemical
Substances in the Work Environment, adopted by the
American Conference of Governmental Industrial
Hygienists (ACGIH). A copy of this booklet may be
obtained for a nominal charge from the ACGIH,
6500 Glenway Avenue, Bldg. D-5, Cincinnati, Ohio
45211.
AIR PROCESSING
A properly established type C supplied-air system
does not simply pump air to workers. Rather, the
air must also be processed. Along with air that
enters the compressor, heat and water vapor are
also processed. As the air is compressed, the
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temperature rises. When the compressed air drops
back to normal ambient pressure, the temperature
likewise returns to normal. Therefore, heat should
be removed from the compressed air resulting in the
air that reaches the worker inside the respirator
being cool and comfortable.
Water vapor, when compressed, forms water drop-
lets or condensation. If this water is not removed,
it can build-up in the air lines to the workers to the
point where a solid "plug" of water is formed. This
plug of water will quickly be forced into the respira-
tor of the workers. It is quite likely that the
workers will immediately discard the masks, or be
startled by the sudden flood of water causing an
accident (fall from a scaffold or ladder, for
example). Accordingly, the air processing equip-
ment must be capable of removing moisture from
the supply air.
There are four basic steps in establishing a type C
supplied-air system. These are (1) compression, (2)
purification, (3) storage, and (4) distribution.
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Compression
Compression of air is necessary to store the air in a
reduced space until needed. There are many differ-
ent types of compressors available to perform this
task. Some are oil-free using non-lubricated Teflon
piston rings. More typical is the reciprocating
multistage oil-lubricated compressor. Screw-type
compressors and diaphragm compressors are also
available. Compressors may be gasoline, diesel, or
electric powered. In a reciprocating compressor, air
is compressed in steps or stages. At each stage (or
immediately following) should be a condensate trap
to allow water to be expelled. The compressor
should have a high air temperature shutdown switch,
an automatic start-stop pressure switch, and a low
oil level shutdown switch. The choice of lubricating
oil will depend on the individual make and model of
the compressor. Usually, however, mineral oil or a
high grade synthetic oil is used. The compressor
should also have appropriate pressure gauges and
safety valves.
When selecting a compressor (or renting), be sure
the manufacturer is aware of its intended use.
Some compressors deliberately add oil to the air
stream for lubricating air-driven machinery.
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Further, be sure to follow manufacturer's operating
instructions and service schedule.
The compressor should be located in a covered area
with good ventilation. An area under a shade tree
with a cool breeze is ideal, but the compressor
should never be placed in an area with below freez-
ing temperatures. The air intake should be located
at least 8 feet above the ground and a coarse filter
used as previously described. Gasoline should
always be stored out of direct sunlight in a cool
area, not accessible to visitors, etc.
Purification
The second step in air processing is purification.
While the compressor may remove some water
through the condensate traps, additional moisture,
odors, oil, hydrocarbons, heat, and carbon monoxide
must be removed. The equipment for the purifica-
tion process consists of a series of filters, adsorp-
tion columns, and sieves. This equipment is normal-
ly purchased as one unit at a cost of $10,000-15,000.
The purification equipment normally has an after-.
cooler (radiator/fan) to remove heat, thereby cool-
ing the air. Following the aftercooler, the air
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stream passes one or more coalescing filters. A
coalescing filter causes aerosol droplets to join
together (or coalesce) and form larger drops that
impinge on the filtering surface and are too heavy
to be re-entrained in the air stream. The coalescing
filter removes droplets of water and oil, as well as
solid particles larger than about 10 micrometers in
diameter through mechanical filtration.
Two adsorption filters are usually located next in
line to the coalescing filter(s). The first adsorption
filter consists of a column packed with a molecular
sieve to remove water vapor. This filter also
removes gaseous hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides,
sulfur compounds, and other odors. Following this
filter is a column containing activated charcoal,
which removes additional unpleasant odors and oil
vapor. Each of the sorbent materials (molecular
sieve and activated charcoal) will need periodic
replacement according to the manufacturer's speci-
fications.
The next step in the purification process is eliminat-
ing carbon tnonoxide through oxidation. In the
presence of a catalyst, carbon monoxide will com-
bine with oxygen to form carbon dioxide, a much
less harmful gas. It should be noted that water
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destroys the catalyst. Therefore, the removal of
water and water vapor before this stage of purifica-
tion is extremely important.
Following the carbon monoxide catalyst is usually a
mechanical filter to remove any particles larger
than 0.5 micrometers in diameter. At this point in
the purification process is located the carbon
monoxide monitor. This instrument, calibrated
daily, measures the concentration of carbon
monoxide in the supply air stream. The calibration
procedure and frequency specified by the manufac-
turers should be followed. The carbon monoxide
monitor should be equipped with a visual and audible
alarm to alert the operator of a high carbon
monoxide level in the supply air. The filtration unit
should also have an air-powered horn to alert the
operator of electrical power failure. The unit will
continue to function; however, the carbon monoxide
monitor and the aftercooling fan will not operate
without electricity.
Storage
/The air exiting the purification unit should meet the
Grade D requirements already discussed. If a high
pressure system (greater than about 200 psi) is used,
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the purified air may go directly into a high pressure
storage tank or reservoir. A high pressure air line
(usually a stainless steel, 1/4 to 1/2 inch line) is run
into the work area to a manifold and regulator. At
this point, the regulator reduces the pressure to
under 125 psi for service to the workers through low
pressure air lines.
If a low pressure system (less than 200 psi) is used,
the purified air will usually be fed directly to a
manifold in the work area via a low pressure (high
volume) air line. At the manifold, several air lines
will be run to the individual workers. To store air in
the event of compressor shutdown, a check valve is
installed between the filtration unit and the work
area manifold. If the compressor shuts off, the
check valve should open to provide air from a series
of bottles (high pressure) containing grade D breath-
ing air. The volume of air to provide adequate
escape time will depend on the number of employees
and time needed to evacuate the work area in an
orderly manner. A reservoir of air for this purpose
is required by OSHA (29 CFR 1910.134).
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Delivery
Once the air has been compressed, purified, and an
adequate reserve available for emergencies, it is
ready for delivery to the asbestos abatement
workers. Usually, large air lines from outside the
work area are used to feed manifolds in the work
area. Each manifold can usually accommodate 2-6
air lines. In this way, short air lines (about 50 feet)
can be used, reducing the amount to be pulled about
by the worker or tripped over by others. Each
airline connects to a belt-mounted regulator which
permits flow into the mask.
The amount of air actually needed will depend on
many factors including the type of respirator,
number of workers, and auxiliary equipment.
Constant flow, tight-fitting masks must be supplied
with a minimum of 4 cubic feet of air per minute
(CFM). Hood-type respirators must be provided
with 6 CFM at a minimum. For each of these types
of masks, the maximum recommended flowrate is 15
CFM. It should be noted that the use of vortex air
cooling devices will require additional air flow
according to the specifications of the vortex unit
chosen.
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Any air-line respirators chosen must be approved by
NIOSH/MSHA (National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health and/or the Mine Safety and
Health Administration). These agencies approve
each air-line respirator as an entire unit, including
the facepiece, regulator, and the airline. No
unapproved respirators may be used at any time.
The maximum airline length for any approved respi-
rator may not exceed 300 feet. The maximum inlet
pressure at the mask cannot exceed 125 psi. Any
alteration of the respirator or its subassemblies
voids the approval. Accordingly, replacement parts
must be supplied by the manufacturer for their
respirators only.
Additional Information
The following items are provided merely as sugges-
tions for work practices when using air-supplied
respirator systems. Most importantly, the contrac-
tor should become fully knowledgable on the use,
limitations, and maintenance of the system. The
manufacturer's representative will often provide
assistance in this area. It is also recommended that
an industrial hygienist or other person familiar with
such systems be retained for advice during initial
set-up and until the job superintendent is comfort-
able with system operations.
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The mask chosen by the contractor is often one that
contains a HEPA filter back-up should the air shut
down, and permits the worker to disconnect from
the air line when entering and leaving the work
area. While the protection factor drops from 1000
or 2000 to 50 when on the HEPA filter, the worker
normally does not need the high protection of the
airline when only traveling to and from the work
area. This type of mask also permits workers to
undress and shower without being attached to the
airlines. An added benefit of this type of mask is
that it permits the airlines to be tied-off atop
scaffolding, allowing the worker to climb the scaf-
fold without the airline attached. Once on the
scaffold, the worker may connect onto the airline.
Plastic caps or tape should be used to cover all
exposed airline connections when not in use. This
will keep asbestos debris from becoming caked in
the quick disconnects. The airlines and manifolds
will need to be cleaned completely at the end of the
project. It is a good idea to keep the manifold
draped with plastic during gross removal and clean-
up. Also, coiling the clean air lines and sealing
them in plastic bags to be opened inside the next
work area is a good practice and saves time.
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Thorough training of the asbestos abatement
workers is necessary. This becomes even more
important when airline respirators are used. Once
workers become accustomed to the airline respira-
tors, they usually find them much more comfortable
than the cartridge respirators since a cool, fresh
supply of air is continuously fed into the respirator.
This keeps the facepiece from fogging and helps
reduce the incidence of heat stress, if applicable.
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PREPARING THE WORK AREA AND
ESTABLISHING THE DECONTAMINATION UNIT
Objective: Understand the proper techniques for preparing the work area and
setting up a decontamination unit before abatement activity begins.
Learning Tasks: Information in this section should enable participants to:
CCSf Understand objectives of work area preparation.
Become familiar with the sequence and methods for accomplish-
ing tasks in work area preparation.
Know the functions of a decontamination unit.
Become familiar with the basic construction of a decontamina-
tion unit.
Know procedures for entering and leaving the work area using
the decontamination unit.
Become familiar with the necessary materials and equipment
used for prepping the work area and building a decontamination
unit.
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PREPARING THE WORK AREA
Airborne fibers which are generated by disturbance
of asbestos-containing material may remain sus-
pended in the air for long periods of time because of
their small size and aerodynamic properties. These
airborne asbestos fibers can migrate via air currents
to other parts of the building.
Proper preparation of the work area before an
asbestos abatement project begins serves the pri-
mary purpose of containing fibers which are
released within the work area. Good preparation
techniques serve to protect interior finishes such as
hardwood floors or carpets from water damage and
reduce cleanup effort. General safety issues are
also a major consideration in work area preparation
(see section in Other Safety and Health
Considerations).
Each project has unique requirements for effective
preparation. For instance, the sequence of steps
would probably be different for preparing a boiler
room than preparing an area with asbestos material
above a suspended ceiling. The following are
general guidelines which can be modified to address
specific problems encountered on an asbestos abate-
ment project.
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STEP 1 - Conduct Walkthrough Survey of the Work
Area
The contractor, building owner, and architect should
make a walkthrough survey to inventory and photo-
graph any existing damages.
STEP 2 - Post Warning Signs
Warning signs should be placed at each entrance to
the work area. Re-usable metal signs or disposable
cardboard signs are available. Signs should inform
the reader that breathing asbestos dust may cause
serious bodily harm. See section (g) of the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
asbestos standard for sign specification (Appendix).
These signs are available from most safety supply
houses and asbestos abatement contractor suppliers.
STEP 3 - Shut Down the Heating, Ventilating, and
Air Conditioning System (HVAC)
The HVAC system supplying the work area should be
shut down and isolated to prevent entrainment of
asbestos dust throughout the building. To avoid
inadvertent activation of the HVAC system while
removal operations are in progress, the control
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panel should be tagged (advising personnel not to
activate) and locked.
All vents and air ducts inside the work area should
be covered and sealed with two layers of 6 mil
polyethylene and duct tape. The first layer of
polyethylene should be left in place until the area
has passed final visual inspection and clearance air
monitoring.
HVAC filters which may be contaminated with
asbestos dust should be removed and disposed of in
the same manner as the other asbestos-containing
materials (see Disposal of Waste).
STEP 4 - Clean and Remove Furniture and Non-
Stationary Items from the Work Area
Workers wearing half-mask high efficiency filter
cartridge respirators and disposable clothing should
remove all non-stationary items that can feasibly be
taken out of the work area. This prevents further
contamination of the items and facilitates the
removal process. Before storing the items outside
the work area, they should be cleaned with a high
efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtered vacuum
and/or wet-wiped to remove any asbestos-containing
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dust. Drapes should be removed for dry cleaning or
disposal. Carpet should be disposed of as asbestos-
containing waste.
STEP 5 - Seal Stationary Items with Polyethylene
Items not being removed from the work area, such
as large pieces of machinery, blackboards, pencil
sharpeners, water fountains, toilets, etc., should be
wet-wiped or HEPA vacuumed and wrapped in place
w.ith 6 mil polyethylene and sealed with duct tape.
Water fountains should be disconnected, covered
with two layers of polyethylene, and labeled non-
operational to discourage anyone from cutting
through the polyethylene to get a drink.
Electrical outlets should be shut down, if possible,
and sealed with tape or covered with polyethylene
and then taped.
STEP 6 - Tape and Seal Windows with Polyethylene
The edges of all the windows should be sealed with
3" wide high quality duct tape. After the edges
have been taped, the windows should be covered and
sealed with 6 mil polyethylene and duct tape.
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STEP 7 - Cover the Floor with Polyethylene
Six mil polyethylene sheets should be used to cover
the floor in the work area. Several sheets may be
seamed together with spray adhesive and duct tape.
Blue or red carpenter's chalk placed beneath the
seam line will darken in color if water leaks
through. Any leaks which occur should be promptly
cleaned up. The polyethylene floor sheets should be
cut and peeled back to allow access to the wet area.
After mopping up the water and any contamination
that leaked through, the area should be wet-wiped
with clean rags. The peeled-back sheets are put
back in place and sealed with duct tape after the
area drys. An additional "patch" sheet can be
placed over this area and sealed with tape to
provide extra protection.
After joining the sheets of polyethylene together,
the floor covering should be cut to the proper
dimensions, allowing the polyethylene to extend
twenty-four inches up the wall all the way around
the room. The polyethylene should be flush with the
walls at each corner to prevent damage by foot
traffic.
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When the first layer of polyethylene has been
secured in place, a second layer should be installed
with the seams of the first and second layers offset.
The second layer of polyethylene should extend a
few inches above the first layer on the wall and
secured with three-inch duct tape.
When covering stairs, ramps, or other potential
slippery spots with polyethylene, care must be taken
to provide traction for foot traffic. Wet poly-
ethylene is very slippery and can create serious
tripping hazards. To provide better footing, mask-
ing tape or thin wood strips can be placed on top of
the polyethylene to provide rough surfaces in these
areas.
STEP 8 - Cover the Walls with Polyethylene
After the floors and stationary objects have been
covered with polyethylene, one or two layers of 4
mil polyethylene are used to cover the walls. The
lighter weight 4 mil is easier to hang and keep in
place than the heavier 6 mil.
The sheets of 4 mil polyethylene should be hung
from the top of the wall a few inches below the
asbestos material and should be long enough to
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overlap the floor sheets by twenty-four inches. The
vertical sheets should be overlapped and seam-
sealed with adhesive duct tape.
The sheets should be hung using a combination of
nails and furring strips (small wood blocks), or
adhesive and staples, and sealed with four-inch duct
tape. Duct tape alone will not support the weight of
the polyethylene after exposure to the high humidity
which often occurs inside the work area. Nails may
cause some minor damage to the interior finish;
however, it is usually more time efficient to touch
up the nail holes than to repeatedly repair fallen
barriers.
STEP 9 - Locate and Secure the Electrical System
to Prevent Shock Hazards
Amended water is typically used to saturate
asbestos-containing sprayed-on material prior to
removal. This creates a humid environment with
damp to very wet floors. The electrical supply to
the work area should be de-energized and locked out
before removal operations begin to eliminate the
potential for a shock hazard.
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Before removal begins:
Identify and de-energize electrical circuits
in the work area.
Lock the breaker box after the system has
been shut down and place a warning tag on
the box.
Make provisions for supplying the work
area with electricity from outside the work
area which is equipped with a ground-fault-
interrupt system.
If the electrical supply cannot be discon-
nected, energized parts must be insulated
or guarded from employee contact and any
other conductive object.
STEP 10 - Removing or Covering Light Fixtures
Light fixtures may have to be removed or detached
and suspended (bailing wire works well) to gain
access to asbestos-containing material. Before
beginning this task, the electrical supply should be
shut off. Light fixtures should be wet wiped before
they are removed from the area. If it is not feasible
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to remove the light fixtures, they should be wet
wiped, then draped with plastic or completely
enclosed.
STEP 11 - Securing the Work Area
When the work area is occupied, padlocks must be
removed to permit emergency escape routes.
Arrows should be taped on the polyethylene-covered
walls to indicate the location of exits. All
entrances should be secured when removal opera-
tions are not in progress. Provisions must also be
made to secure the decontamination station
entrance when no one is on the job site. Security
guards may be a reasonable precaution, depending
on the nature of the project.
Nonessential personnel should not be permitted to
enter the work area. An on-site job log should be
maintained for recording who enters the work area
and the time each person enters and exits the work
zone.
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ESTABLISHING A DECONTAMINATION UNIT
The decontamination station is designed to allow
passage to and from the work area during removal
operations with minimal leakage of asbestos-
containing dust to the outside. A typical unit
consists of a clean room, a shower room, and an
equipment room separated by airlocks. The airlocks
are formed by overlapping two sheets of polyethyl-
ene at the exit of one room, and two sheets at the
entrance to the next room with three feet of space
between the barriers (see Figure X-l). There are
various methods for constructing airlocks including
a hatch type construction and a slit and cover
design.
Materials used to construct a typical unit include
2-inch by 4-inch lumber for the frame, 1/4 inch to
1/2 inch plywood or 6 mil polyethylene for the walls,
duct tape, staples and nails. The floor should be
covered with three layers of 6 mil polyethylene.
The decontamination unit can be built in sections to
allow for disassembly and re-use at another area of
the building. The design of the decontamination
station will vary with each project depending on the
size of the crew and the physical constraints
imposed by the facility.
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WORK AREA
WORK AREA
DECONTAMINATION AREA
EQUIPMENT
ROOM
CLEAN
ROOM
WASTEWATER
FILTRATION
EQUIPMENT
CURTAIN DOORWAYS
WASTE
LOAD-OUT
ARK A
AIRLOCK & RAMP
ENCLOSED TRUCK
Figure X-l. Sketch of Typical Decontamination Area and Waste Load-out Area
-------
Customized trailers which can be readily moved
from one location to the next are also used as
decontamination stations. These units typically cost
$20,000 - $50,000 depending on the size and
features. A company conducting work at many
different locations would probably recover this
initial investment over time.
Whether a decontamination station is constructed
on-site or is in the form of a trailer, the basic
design is the same. The major components and their
uses are discussed below and illustrated in the
following diagrams (Figures X-l and X-2).
Clean Room - No asbestos-contaminated items
should enter this room. Workers use this area to
suit up, store street clothes, and don respiratory
protection on their way to the work area, and to
dress in clean clothes after showering. This room
should ideally be furnished with benches, lockers for
clothes and valuables, and nails for hanging respira-
tors.
Shower Room - Workers pass through the shower
room on their way to the removal area, and use the
showers on their way out after leaving contaminated
clothing in the equipment room. Although most job
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WORK AREA
WORKER
12. Brushes off
contamination
r
WORK AREA
WORKER
10. Puts on any additional
clothing ~ deck shoes, hard hat
11. Collects necessary tools
Proceeds to work area
DECONTAMINATION ARKA
T
!•: () U I I1 M E N T
ROOM
AIRLOCK
T
SHOWER
WORKER
13,
14,
15.
16.
Removes all clothing
except respirator
Places disposable
protective clothing
in a bag or bin
Stores any other
contaminated articles
Proceeds to shower
Worker
1. Enters clean room
2. Removes clothing, places in locker
3. Puts on nylon swim suit (optional)
4. Puts on clean coveralls
5. If separate disposable foot coverings are
used, these are^put on 6
Applies tape around ankles, wrists, etc.
Inspects respirator, puts it on, checks fit
Puts on hood over respirator headstraps
Proceeds to equipment room
AIRLOCK
CLEAN
ROOM
WORKER
WORKER
17.
IP..
19.
20.
Washes respirator
and soaks filters
(without removing) 22.
Removes respirator,
washes with soap and
water
Washes swimsuit
Thoroughly washes body
and hair
Dries off, dresses in clean
coveralls or street clothes
Cleans and dries respirator,
replaces filters (if applicable)
WASTE
LOAD-OUT
ARK A
AIK1.0CK 4 RANI1
ENCLOSED TRUCK
Figure X-2. Procedures for Entering and Leaving the Work Area
-------
specifications require only a single shower head,
installation of multiple showers may be time and
cost effective if the work crew is large. Shower
wastewater should be collected and treated as
asbestos-containing material or filtered before dis-
posal into the sanitary sewer. State and local
requirements on methods of shower wastewater dis-
posal vary. For example, Alabama, Georgia,
Maryland, and New Jersey each have written speci-
fications for handling shower wastewater.
Equipment Room - This is a contaminated area
where equipment, boots or shoes, hardhats, goggles,
and any additional contaminated work clothes are
stored. Workers place disposable clothing such as
coveralls, booties and hoods in bins before leaving
this area for the shower room. Respirators are worn
until workers enter the shower and thoroughly soak
them with water. The equipment room may require
cleanup several times daily to prevent asbestos
material from being tracked into the shower and
clean rooms.
Waste Load-Out Area - This is an area separate
from the decontamination unit which is used as a
short term storage area for bagged waste and as a
port for transferring waste to the truck. An enclo-
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sure can be constructed to form an airlock between
the exit of the load-out area and an enclosed truck
(see Figure X-2).
The outside of the waste containers should be free
of all contaminated material before removal from
the work area. Gross contamination should be wiped
or scraped off containers before they are placed in
the load-out area. Any remaining contamination
should be removed by wet wiping or the bagged
material can be placed in a second clean bag. To
save cleanup time, fiber drums can be covered with
an outside bag of polyethylene before they are taken
into the work area which can be removed before
taking the drum into the load-out area.
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MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT LIST FOR
PREPARATION OF THE WORK AREA AND
ESTABLISHING THE DECONTAMINATION STATION
Polyethylene Sheeting Material
Used to:
Seal off work areas and items within work
areas; protect surfaces in the work area other
than those being altered; construct decontami-
nation and enclosure systems.
Types:
4 mil thickness
6 mil thickness
12' x 100' rolls 20 Ibs
20' x 100' rolls 60 Ibs
Duct Tape
Used to:
Seam polyethylene sheets together;
form airtight seal between poly-
•••'-• i . i
ethylene and wall; provide some
support for vertical sheets.
Adhesive Spray
Used to: Seal seams; provide additional sup-
port to vertical sheets.
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Furring Strips (cut into blocks)
Used to: Support vertical sheets of poly-
ethylene.
Nails
Used to: Attach furring strips to top edge of
polyethylene and then to the wall;
construct the frame of the decon-
tamination unit.
Staples & Staple Gun
Used to: Attach polyethylene to wood frame.
Retractable Razor Knives
Used to: Slice polyethylene and tape.
Warning Signs
Used to: Post entrances to building and
decontamination unit.
!
Vacuum Cleaner Equipped with a High Efficiency
Particulate Air (HEPA) Filter
Used to: Clean non-stationary items before
removing them from the work area.
Ladders and/or scaffolding
Carpentry tools such as hammers, saws, etc.
Prefab shower stalls or materials for shower con-
struction
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CONFINING AND MINIMIZING AIRBORNE FIBERS
Objective: Provide instruction to participants on the most effective methods for
containment of asbestos fibers during an asbestos abatement project.
Learning Tasks: Information in this section should enable participants to:
CCSf17 Understand the primary methods used to contain and minimize
airborne fiber concentrations during an asbestos abatement
project.
(CST7 Know principles and procedures for setting up a negative air
filtration system on an abatement project.
-------
CONFINING AND MINIMIZING
AIRBORNE FIBERS
The preparation phase of an abatement project is
directed toward containing the airborne fibers which
will be generated during removal, primarily by
constructing barriers with polyethylene sheeting.
This containment effort, along with measures to
minimize airborne fiber concentrations, is continued
throughout the removal phase. The primary
methods for contaminant control are the use of wet
removal techniques and the use of negative air
filtration systems accompanied by frequent clean up
in a work area sealed with polyethylene.
Negative Air Filtration Systems
The planning strategy for the use of negative air
systems in abatement work includes two main goals.
Changing air within the containment area
approximately every 15 minutes.
Establishing conditions in which air from all
portions of the sealed zone is being pulled
toward the negative air filters.
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Negative air systems can be used on an abatement
project to accomplish several positive effects.
Containment of airborne fibers even if the
barrier is ripped or punctured.
Lower concentration of airborne fibers in the
work area.
Worker comfort and increased productivity.
Improved efficiency in final cleanup.
Negative air filtration units are known by several
TM
different names including Micro-Trap, Red
TM TM
Baron, Hog, , micro-filter, HEPA units and
negative pressure system. Prototypes were devel-
oped in the latter 1970's and the concept of air
filtration systems as a primary control technique
was adopted by EPA in 1983. A general discussion
on negative air systems is provided in the following
pages which are reproduced with some modifications
from EPA report number 560/5-83-002, Guidance
for Controlling Friable Asbestos-Containing
Materials in Buildings, March 1983.
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RECOMMENDED SPECIFICATIONS AND OPERATING
PROCEDURES FOR THE USE OF NEGATIVE PRESSURE
SYSTEMS FOR ASBESTOS ABATEMENT*
INTRODUCTION
This section provides guidelines for the use of
negative pressure systems in removing asbestos-
containing materials from buildings. The
manufacturer's instructions for equipment use should
be followed for negative air filtration units, as well
as all other equipment discussed in this manual. A
negative pressure system is one in which the static
pressure in an enclosed work area is lower than that
of the environment outside the containment
barriers.
The pressure gradient is maintained by moving air
from the work area to the environment outside the
area via powered exhaust equipment at a rate that
will support the desired air flow and pressure differ-
ential. Thus, the air moves into the work area
^Reproduced from EPA Report Number 560/5-83-
002, Guidance for Controlling Friable Asbestos-
Containing Materials in Buildings, March 1983.
-243-
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through designated access spaces and any other
barrier openings. Exhaust air is filtered by a high-
efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to remove
asbestos fibers.
The use of negative pressure during asbestos
removal helps protect against the large-scale
release of fibers to the surrounding area in case of a
breach in the containment barrier. A negative
pressure system also can reduce the concentration
of airborne asbestos in the work area by increasing
the dilution ventilation rate (i.e., diluting contami-
nated air in the work area with uncontaminated air
from outside) and exhausting contaminated air
through HEPA filters. The circulation of fresh air
through the work area reportedly also improves
worker comfort by increasing the cooling effect,
which may aid the removal process by increasing job
productivity.
MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
THE PORTABLE, HEPA-FILTERED, POWERED
EXHAUST UNIT
The exhaust unit establishes lower pressure inside
than outside the enclosed work area during asbestos
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abatement. Basically, a unit consists of a cabinet
with an opening at each end, one for air intake and
one for exhaust. A fan and a series of filters are
arranged inside the cabinet between the openings.
The fan draws contaminated air through the intake
and filters and discharges clean air through the
exhaust.
Inlet
o
o
0
0
o
o
o
\-S
o
o
o
0
o
o
0
t 1
Profiler
1
HEPA filter
12"
Intermediate
filter
2"
Sketch of HEPA-filtered exhaust unit.
(Note: Other designs are available.)
Portable exhaust units used for negative pressure
systems in asbestos abatement projects should meet
the following specifications.
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STRUCTURAL SPECIFICATIONS
The cabinet should be ruggedly constructed and
made of durable materials to withstand damage
from rough handling and transportation. The width
of the cabinet should be less than 30 inches to fit
through standard-size doorways. The cabinet must
be appropriately sealed to prevent asbestos-
containing dust from being emitted during use,
transport, or maintenance. There should be easy
access to all air filters from the intake end, and the
filters must be easy to replace. The unit should be
mounted on casters or wheels so it can be easily
moved. It also should be accessible for easy clean-
ing.
MECHANICAL SPECIFICATIONS
FANS
The fan for each unit should be sized to draw a
desired air flow through the filters in the unit at a
specified static pressure drop. The unit should have
an air-handling capacity of 1,000 to 2,000 ft^/min
(under "clean" filter conditions). The fan should be
of the centrifugal type.
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For large-scale abatement projects, where the use
of a larger capacity, specially designed exhaust
system may be more practical than several smaller
units, the fan should be appropriately sized accord-
ing to the proper load capacity established for the
application, i.e.,
Total ft3/min (load) =
Volume of air in ft^ x air changes/hour
60 min/hour
Smaller-capacity units (e.g., 1,000 ft-Vmin) equipped
with appropriately sized fans and filters may be
used to ventilate smaller work areas. The desired
air flow could be achieved with several units.
FILTERS
The final filter must be the HEPA type. Each filter
should have a standard nominal rating of at least
1,100 ft-Vmin with a maximum pressure drop of 1
inch H2O clean resistance. The filter media (folded
into closely pleated panels) must be completely
sealed on all edges with a structurally rigid frame
and cross-braced as required. The exact dimensions
of the filter should correspond with the dimensions
of the filter housing inside the cabinet or the
dimensions of the filter-holding frame. The recom-
-247-
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mended standard size HEPA filter is 24 inches high
x 24 inches wide x 11-1/2 inches deep. The overall
dimensions and squareness should be within 1/8 inch.
A continuous rubber gasket must be located between
the filter and the filter housing to form a tight seal.
The gasket material should be 1/4 inch thick and 3/4
inch wide. This gasket should be checked periodic-
ally for cracks and gaps. Any break in this gasket
may permit significant leakage of contaminated air.
Each filter should be individually tested and certi-
fied by the manufacturer to have an efficiency of
not less than 99.97 percent when challenged with
0.3 urn dioctylphthalate (DOP) aerosol. Testing
should be in accordance with Military Standard
Number 282 and Army Instruction Manual 136-300-
175A. Each filter should bear a UL586 label to
indicate ability to perform under specific condi-
tions.
Each filter should be marked with: the name of the
manufacturer, serial number, air flow rating, effi-
ciency and resistance, and the direction of test air
flow.
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Prefilters, which protect the final filter by remov-
ing the larger particles, are recommended to pro-
long the operating life of the HEPA filter.
Prefilters prevent the premature loading of the
HEPA filter. They can also save energy and cost.
One (minimum) or two (preferred) stages of prefil-
tration may be used. The first-stage prefilter
should be a low-efficiency type (e.g., for particles
10 um and larger). The second-stage (or intermedi-
ate) filter should have a medium efficiency (e.g.,
effective for particles down to 5 um). Various types
of filters and filter media for prefiltration applica-
tions are available from many manufacturers.
Prefilters and intermediate filters should be
installed either on or in the intake grid of the unit
and held in place with special housings or clamps.
INSTRUMENTATION
Each unit should be equipped with a Magnehelic
gauge or manometer to measure the pressure drop
across the filters and indicate when filters have
become loaded and need to be changed. The static
pressure across the filters (resistance) increases as
they become loaded with dust, affecting the ability
of the unit to move air at its rated capacity.
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ELECTRICAL
GENERAL
The electrical system should have a remote fuse
disconnect. The fan motor should be totally
enclosed, fan-cooled, and the nonoverloading type.
The unit may use a standard 115-V, single-phase, 60-
cycle service. All electrical components must be
approved by the National Electrical Manufacturers
Association (NEMA) and Underwriter's Laboratories
(UL).
FANS
The motor, fan, fan housing, and cabinet should be
grounded. The unit should have an electrical (or
mechanical) lockout to prevent the fan from operat-
ing without a HEPA filter.
INSTRUMENTATION
An automatic shutdown system that would stop the
fan in the event of a major rupture in the HEPA
filter or blocked air discharge is recommended.
Optional warning lights are recommended to indi-
cate normal operation, too high of a pressure drop
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across the filters (i.e., filter .overloading), and too
low of a pressure drop (i.e., major rupture in HEPA
filter or obstructed discharge). Other optional
instruments include a timer with automatic shut-off
and an elapsed time meter to show the total accu-
mulated hours of operation.
SETUP AND USE OF A NEGATIVE PRESSURE
SYSTEM
DETERMINING APPROXIMATE VENTILATION
REQUIREMENTS FOR A WORK AREA
Experience with negative pressure systems on
asbestos abatement projects indicates a recom-
mended rate of one air change every 15 minutes.
The volume (in ft-') of the work area is determined
by multiplying the floor area by the ceiling height.
The total air flow requirement (in ft-Vmin) for the
work area is determined by dividing this volume by
the recommended air change rate (i.e., one air
change every 15 minutes).*
*The recommended air exchange rate is based on
engineering judgment.
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Total ft^/min = Volume of work area (in ft^)/15 min
The number of units needed for the application is
determined by dividing the total ft^/min by the
rated capacity of the exhaust unit.
The number of units needed for the application is
determined by dividing the total ft^/min by the
rated capacity of the exhaust unit.
Number of units needed =
(Total ft^/min)/(Capacity of unit (ft^/min)
LOCATION OF EXHAUST UNITS
The exhaust unit(s) should be located so that makeup
air enters the work area primarily through the
decontamination facility and traverses the work
area as much as possible. This may be accomplished
by positioning the exhaust unit(s) at a maximum
distance from the worker access opening or other
makeup air sources.
Wherever practical, work area exhaust units can be
located on the floor in or near unused doorways or
windows. The end of the unit or its exhaust duct
should be placed through an opening in the plastic
barrier or wall covering. The plastic around the unit
or duct should then be sealed with tape.
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Each unit must have temporary electrical power
(115V A.C.). If necessary, three-wire extension
cords can supply power to a unit. The cords must be
in continuous lengths (without splice), in good condi-
tion, and should not be more than 100 feet long.
They must not be fastened with staples, hung from
nails, or suspended by wire. Extension cords should
be suspended off the floor and out of workers' way
to protect the cords from damage from traffic,
sharp objects, and pinching.
Exhaust units must be vented to the outside of the
building. This may involve the use of additional
lengths of flexible or rigid duct connected to the air
outlet and routed to the nearest outside opening.
Windowpanes may have to be removed temporarily.
Additional makeup air may be necessary to avoid
creating too high of a pressure differential, which
could cause the plastic coverings and temporary
barriers to "pull in". Additional makeup air also
may be needed to move air most effectively through
the work area. Supplemental makeup air inlets may
be made by making openings in the plastic sheeting
that allow air from outside the building into the
work area. Auxiliary makeup air inlets should be as
far as possible from the exhaust unit(s) (e.g., on an
-253-
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Exhaust Duct
Vented To
Window f
\
r
DF
4=*
WA
EU
Exhaust Unit On
Outside Of Build-
ing
DF
DF
I
.Auxiliary
I makeup air
DF
Figure XI-1. Examples of negative pressure systems.
DF, Decontamination Facility; EU, Exhaust Unit; WA, Worker Access; A, Single-room
work area with multiple windows; B, Single-room work area with single window near
entrance; C, Single-room work area with exhaust unit placed on the outside of the
building; D, Large single-room work area with windows and auxiliary makeup air
source (dotted arrow). Arrows denote direction of air flow. Circled numbers indi-
cate progression"of removal"sequence.
-254-
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Waste load-out area
i
N3
Worker Access
Equipment Shower Clean
Room Room Room
Clean
Exhaust
HEPA Units
Figure XI-2. Schematic representation of negative air HEPA system in place.
-------
opposite wall), off the floor (preferably near the
ceiling), and away from barriers that separate the
work area from occupied clean areas. They should
be resealed whenever the negative pressure system
is turned off after removal has started. Because the
pressure differential (and ultimately the effective-
ness of the system) is affected by the adequacy of
makeup air, the number of auxiliary air inlets should
be kept to a minimum to maintain negative pres-
sure. Figure XI-1 presents examples of negative
pressure systems denoting the location of HEPA-
filtered exhaust units and the direction of air flow.
Figure XI-2 is a schematic representation of neg-
ative air HEPA system in place.
USE OF THE NEGATIVE PRESSURE SYSTEM
TESTING THE SYSTEM
The negative pressure system should be tested
before any asbestos-containing material is wetted or
removed. After the work area has been prepared,
the decontamination facility set up, and the exhaust
unit(s) installed, the unit(s) should be started (one at
a time). Observe the barriers and plastic sheeting.
The plastic curtains of the decontamination facility
should move slightly in toward the work area. The
-256-
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use of ventilation smoke tubes and a rubber bulb is
another easy and inexpensive way to visually check
system performance and direction of air flow
through openings in the barrier. For example,
smoke emitted on the inside of the work area at a
barrier should not leak outward. Smoke emitted in
the shower room of the decontamination unit should
move inward to the work area. Smoke tubes can
also be used to check if air flow is moving inward at
high and low levels of the work area.
Another test method for negative pressure is to use
a Magnehelic gauge (or other instrument) to
measure the static pressure differential across the
barrier. The measuring device must be sensitive
enought to detect a relatively low pressure drop. A
Magnehelic gauge with a scale of 0 to 0.25 or 0.50
inch of H2O and 0.005 or 0.01 inch graduations is
generally adequate. The pressure drop across the
barrier is measured from the outside by punching a
small hole in the plastic barrier and inserting one
end of a piece of rubber or Tygon tubing. The other
end of the tubing is connected to the "low pressure"
tap of the instrument. The "high pressure" tap must
be open to the atmosphere. The pressure is read
directly from the scale. After the test is com-
pleted, the hole in the barrier must be patched.
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Instruments are now being tested which can monitor
the pressure drop on a twenty-four hour basis and be
connected to a strip chart recorder. An audible
and/or visible alarm may be used to alert the
project manager of a severe drop in pressure.
Typically, a pressure drop of 0.03 inches of water
should be maintained throughout the asbestos abate-
ment project.
USE OF SYSTEM DURING REMOVAL OPERATIONS
The exhaust units should be started just before
beginning removal (i.e., before any asbestos-
containing material is disturbed). After removal has
begun, the units should run continuously to maintain
a constant negative pressure until decontamination
of the work area is complete. The units should not
be turned off at the end of the work shift or when
removal operations temporarily stop.
Employees should start removing the asbestos mate-
rial at a location farthest from the exhaust units
and work toward them. If an electric power failure
occurs, removal must stop immediately and should
not resume until power is restored and exhaust units
are operating again.
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Because airborne asbestos fibers are microscopic in
size and tend to remain in suspension for a long
time, the exhaust units must keep operating
throughout the entire removal and decontamination
processes. To ensure continuous operation, a spare
unit should be available.
After asbestos removal equipment has been moved
from the work area, the plastic sheeting has been
cleaned, and all surfaces in the work area have been
wet-cleaned, the exhaust units can be allowed to run
for at least another 4 hours to reduce airborne
fibers that may have been generated during wet
removal and cleanup and to purge the work area
with clean makeup air. The units may be allowed to
run for a longer time after decontamination, partic-
ularly if dry or only partially wetted asbestos mate-
rial was encountered during removal.
FILTER REPLACEMENT
All filters must be accessible from the work area or
"contaminated" side of the barrier. Thus, personnel
responsible for changing filters while the negative
pressure system is in use should wear approved
respirators and other protective equipment. The
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operating life of a HEPA filter depends on the level
of participate contamination in the environment in
which it is used. During use, filters will become
loaded with dust, which increases resistance to air
flow and diminishes the air-handling capacity of the
unit. The difference in pressure drop across the
filters between "clean" and "loaded" conditions is a
convenient means of estimating the extent of air-
flow resistance and determining when the filters
should be replaced.
When the pressure drop across the filters (as deter-
mined by the Magnehelic gauge or manometer on
the unit) exceeds 1.0 inch of H^O, the prefilter
should be replaced first. The prefilter, which fan
suction will generally hold in place on the intake
grill, should be removed with the unit running by
carefully rolling or folding in its sides. Any dust
dislodged from the prefilter during removal will be
collected on the intermediate filter. The used
prefilter should be placed inside a 6 mil plastic bag,
sealed and labeled, and disposed of as asbestos
waste. A new prefilter is then placed on the intake
grill. Filters for prefiltration applications may be
purchased as individual precut panels or in a roll of
specified width that must be cut to size.
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If the presure drop still exceeds 1.0 inch of H2O
after the prefilter has been replaced, the intermedi-
ate filter is replaced. With the unit operating, the
prefilter should be removed, the intake grill or filter
access opened, and the intermediate filter removed.
Any dust dislodged from the intermediate filter
during removal will be collected on the HEPA filter.
The used intermediate filter should be placed in a
sealable plastic bag (appropriately labeled) and dis-
posed of as asbestos waste. A new replacement
filter is then installed and the grill or access closed.
Some brands of negative air machines require
removal of the prefilter to gain access to the
intermediate filter. This filter should be replaced
as the last step of replacing the intermediate filter.
The HEPA filter should be replaced if prefilter
and/or intermediate filter replacement does not
restore the pressure drop across the filters to its
original clean resistance reading or if the HEPA
filter becomes damaged (HEPA filters will fail if
they absorb too much moisture). The exhaust unit is
shut off and disconnected from the power source to
replace the HEPA filter, which requires removing
the HEPA filter from the unit. Used HEPA filters
should be placed in a sealable plastic bag (appropri-
ately labeled) and disposed of as asbestos waste.
-261-
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The gasket between the filter and the housing should
be inspected for any gaps or cracks. Worn gaskets
should be replaced as needed. A new HEPA filter
(structurally identical to the original filter) should
then be installed. The intake grill and intermediate
filter should be put back in place, the unit turned
on, and the prefilter positioned on the intake grill.
Whenever the HEPA filter is replaced, the prefilter
and intermediate filter should also be replaced.
When several exhaust units are used to ventilate a
work area, negative pressure can be maintained
during the HEPA filter replacement and the direc-
tion of air flow into the work area will be main-
tained. Thus, the risk of asbestos fiber release to
the outside environment is controlled.
Any filters used in the system may be replaced more
frequently than the pressure drop across the filters
indicates is necessary. Experience has shown that
prefilters, for example, should be replaced two to
four times a day or when accumulations of particu-
late matter become visible. Intermediate filters
must be replaced once every day or so, and the
HEPA filter may be replaced at the beginning of
each new project. (Used HEPA filters must be
disposed of as asbestos-containing waste).
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Conditions in the work area dictate the frequency of
filter changes. In a work area where fiber release is
effectively controlled by thorough wetting and good
work practices, fewer filter changes may be
required than in work areas where the removal
process is not well controlled. It should also be
noted that the collection efficiency of a filter
generally improves as particulate accumulates on it.
Thus, filters can be used effectively until resistance
(as a result of excessive particulate loading) dimin-
ishes the exhaust capacity of the unit.
DISMANTLING THE SYSTEM
As gross removal nears completion, filters should be
checked for loading and replaced if necessary. If a
prefilter is being used on the outside of the exhaust
unit, it should be removed before final cleanup
begins. When the negative air system is shut down
at the end of the project, the filters should be left
in the negative air filtration unit and the openings
sealed with polyethylene and duct tape. Filters in
the exhaust system should not be replaced after
final cleanup is complete in order to avoid any risk
of re-contaminating the area.
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TIPS FOR USING NEGATIVE AIR PRESSURE
SYSTEMS
Check the integrity of the gasket between the
HEPA filter and housing each time the filter is
changed or after the unit has been transported
to a new location.
A general rule of thumb for filter life during
"average" removal is:
2 hours for the 1/2" pre-filter
24 hours for the 2" pre-filter
700 hours for the 12" HEPA filter
Changing out the 1/2" prefilter frequently
(every 20-30 minutes) during "heavy" removal
will prolong the life of the much more expen-
sive HEPA filter.
Before removal begins, check the availability of
a 20 amp circuit. Most negative air machines
require 18 amps for start-up and 15 amps during
normal operation.
Negative air units usually pull less volume than
the rating assign by the manufacturer. For
instance, a unit rated at 2,000 cfm will pull
1300-1500 cfm. Also, as filters load, the cfm is
reduced.
-264-
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Start the negative air system before beginning
work and check to see if it is functioning
properly. Make sure there is adequate makeup
air. Otherwise the polyethylene may be pulled
away from the walls.
Srnoke tubes are useful for checking airflow
inside the containment.
Use heavy duty extension cords to energize the
negative air filtration units. If a series of cords
are connected, take necessary precautions to
avoid shock hazards. Make sure the temporary
electrical system is properly grounded.
As a rule of thumb, the containment area
should be no larger than 10,000 square feet for
efficient use of a negative air filtration system.
The negative air system is most effective in
reducing fiber concentrations when laborers
start removal at the farthest point from the
negative air units and work toward them.
When venting the negative air filtration exhaust
outside a window, a good seal can be formed by
placing a piece of plywood with a hole cut for
-265-
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the flex duct in the window and sealing it with
duct tape. Another seal can be formed by
placing a piece of 6 mil polyethylene over the
plywood template and cutting a slit in it for
insertion of the exhaust duct. Tape is used to
seal the space around the slit in the
polyethylene and the duct.
The use of supplied air respirators will increase
the air pressure in the work area. Negative air
filtration units should always be used in
conjunction with type C respirators to prevent
build-up of positive pressure.
Wet Removal Techniques
EPA regulations which cover the removal of
asbestos material (40 CFR, Part 61, Subparts A&B,
1973) require wetting the material before removal
begins and keeping it wet as it is removed and while
it is being bagged. Dry removal, which requires
specific EPA approval, is appropriate for some types
of asbestos-containing materials which have been
previously encapsulated and will not absorb amended
water. Also, there are special conditions which
preclude the use of water such as a room containing
electrical supply lines which cannot be de-energized
during the removal project.
-266-
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NJ
ON
Table XI-1.
GEOMETRIC MEAN (GM) AND GEOMETRIC STANDARD DEVIATION (GSD)
VALUES USING WET AND DRY REMOVAL METHODS (FIBERS/CO
WORK AREA GM 84™
AIR SAMPLES (50™ PERCENTILE) PERCENTILE GSD
ALL WORK AREAS 0,74 3,7 5,0
WET REMOVAL ONLY 0,48 1,1 2,3
DRY REMOVAL ONLY 11,9 24,0 2,0
Excerpted from W.M. Ewing. Air Sampling AT 52 Asbestos Abatement Projects.
American Incustrial Hygiene Conference, Philadelphia, PA. May 24, 1983.
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Figure XI-3. Fiber Concentrations Generated During Dry and Wet Removal
o
u
to
M
0)
50
40
30
20
10--
fa
01
e
o
00 C
I
-------
Two advantages to the use of wet methods for
removing asbestos materials include a reduction in
airborne fiber concentrations which are generated
during removal and a reduction in the effort
required to remove the material. Wet removal is
based on the ability of water to lower the ability of
the asbestos-containing material to release airborne
asbestos fibers and increase the settling rate of
fibers that are released. As indicated in Table XI-1
and Figure XI-3, airborne fiber concentrations may
be reduced significantly by using wet removal tech-
niques rather than dry.
The positive effects of wet removal can be further
enhanced by adding a wetting agent to the water.
The wetting agent is a combination of chemicals
which aids in the penetration of the material and
increases the probability of individual fiber wetting.
Various wetting agents are available which have
been used in the agriculture industry and fire fight-
ing profession for many years. EPA recommends a
wetting agent consisting of 50% polyoxyethylene
ester and 50% polyoxyethylene ether in a ratio of 1
ounce to 5 gallons of water. This wetting agent is
not as effective with materials which contain a high
percentage of amosite asbestos.
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Removal of Sprayed or Troweled Friable Insulation
Materials from Ceilings
At this point of the abatement project, the work
area has been sealed off with two layers of 6 mil
polyethylene on the floors and two layers of 4 mil
polyethylene on the walls (see section on
Preparation of Work Area). The decontamination
unit and negative air filtration units are in place,
and the scaffolding, ladders, various sizes of short-
and long-handled scrapers, and other removal equip-
ment have been brought into the work area. (See
the Removal Equipment List, Table XI-2.)
•-270-
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Table XI-2
EQUIPMENT USED FOR REMOVAL OF
FRIABLE INSULATION MATERIALS
Portable High Efficiency Participate Air (HEPA)
filtered, exhaust units
Replacement filters
Flexible or rigid ducts
HEPA vacuum cleaner
Electrical extension cords
Garden hose
Garden spray bottle attachments for the water hose
Hand pump garder sprayer
Wetting agent (50% polyoxyethylene ether and 50%
polyoxyethylene ester or equivalent)
Stiff scraper, ranging in size from narrow, putty-
knife type to 4 inch wide blades and 6 inch width
scrapers mounted on 6 foot long wooden handles
Nylon brushes of various sizes
Plastic dust pans
Plastic snow shovels
Brooms - standard house and push brooms
Scaffolds with railing
6 mil polyethylene bags for holding water
Wood stepladders of appropriate height
Glovebags (for pipes) - see glovebag section equip-
ment list
Duct tape
Temporary lighting
Ventilation smoke tubes and bulbs
-271-
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The first step in the removal process is to thorough-
ly wet the ceiling material with a low pressure spray
of amended water. The material should be sprayed
with a light coat of amended water to initially wet
the surface, then a saturation coat is applied. The
material can be wetted using a low pressure pump
system or water hose with garden sprayer attached
which can mix the wetting agent with the water. A
hand pump garden sprayer can be used for small
projects. Application with large pump systems or
airless sprayers may cause leakage behind the
barrier seals resulting in contamination of the walls
and floors. Also, the initial impact of water applied
with high pressure may cause elevated airborne
fiber concentrations, therefore low pressure and
careful technique in application should be used.
Time should be allotted between spraying with
amended water and removal to provide for maxi-
mum penetration into the material. If the time
frame allows, the ceiling material should be thor-
oughly saturated with amended water the night
before removal starts.
Removal of ceiling material is carried out in two
stages -- gross and secondary removal. Gross
removal is typically conducted with a three or four
man team. Two men working from a mobile scaf-
-272-
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fold with rails remove the friable material using
scrapers. Wide blades can be used if the material
comes off easily. Workers of approximately the
same height should be paired together on the scaf-
folds. One or two workers on the ground package
the moist material before it has time to dry out in 6
mil plastic bags or plastic-lined fiber drums.
Rubber dust pans, plastic snow shovels, push brooms,
and standard house brooms should be used to collect
and bag the material. Avoid using metal shovels or
dust pans to prevent inadvertent tears in the
polyethylene floor barriers. The crew that bags the
material also repositions the scaffold as needed,
relocking the wheels after each move. If several
crews are removing material, it may be time effi-
cient to designate a "spray" person who walks from
one area to the next, keeping the material on the
ceiling and the floor wet and misting the air to
maintain low airborne fiber concentrations. The
spray person can also check for damaged floor
barriers and promptly repair them.
Bags containing the waste material are processed
for waste load-out, either by wet wiping, placing in
another "clean" bag, or depositing into fiber drums.
(See Waste Disposal Requirements.) All bags should
be removed from the work area at least by the end
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of the work day. Removal of bags on a continual
basis provide for easier movement (particularly if
workers are wearing air-supplied respirators) in the
work area.
After removing as much of the sprayed-on material
as possible with scrapers, crews begin secondary
removal. Depending on the type of substrate
(material underneath the friable insulation), various
techniques and tools may be required. Common
types of ceiling construction to which friable insula-
tion materials may be applied include concrete, 3
coat plaster system, suspended metal lath, concrete
joists and beams, metal deck, corrugated steel, steel
beam or bar joist. Figure XI-4 illustrates some of
these ceiling types. The surface substrate may be
smooth, rough, or pitted and will affect the diffi-
culty of secondary removal. Typically a combina-
tion of brushing and wet wiping are used to remove
the remaining residue. Nylon bristled brushes should
be used instead of wire brushes which may break the
small fibers into smaller fibers. The rags used for
wet wiping should not leave any fabric fibers on the
substrate which might be mistaken as visual con-
tamination. High efficiency particulate air vacuum
cleaners are also useful for removing "hard-to-get-
to" residue.
-274-
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Figure XI-4.
TYPES OF CEILING CONSTRUCTION
r-o
~j
VJl
CONCRETE JOIST
AND BEAM CONSTRUCTION
•:•}&*•:•::£
^
.'•' •' '-iv•'"• •'• ••."- •'•.-XI • -' • :Jv.'.
Ss£
OFTEN ASBESTOS APPLIED
ONLY ON UNDERSIDE OF DECK
NOT ON JOISTS OR BEAMS
CONCRETE WAFFLE SLAB CONSTRUCTION
ASBESTOS USUALLY
UNIFORM THICKNESS
STEEL BEAM CONSTRUCTION
SUSPENDED CEILING CONSTRUCTION
ONCRETE OR
R JOISTS
CONCRETE
JOISTS
SPRAYED-ON
ASBESTOS
STEEL
BEAMS
•
' <
;
WIRES
-. AND ~~*-
CHANNELS
\ .
'.
-
ASBESTOS USUALLY SPRAYED ON EXPANDED METAL LATH
Excerpted from Asbestos Exposure Assessment In Buildings,
Inspection Manual, EPA. October, 1982.
-------
While crews are working from scaffolds or ladders
to remove all remaining residue from the ceilings,
workers should also be cleaning material off the
polyethylene wall barriers and any stationary
objects in the area. Brooms, wet rags, or squeeges
are good for this purpose. Secondary removal is
finished when all visual contamination is removed
from the ceilings. The next phase is final cleanup.
Removal of Insulation from Pipes, Boilers, and
Tanks
There is a wide variation in the types of asbestos-
containing insulation used on pipes, boilers, and
tanks. Pipes may be insulated with preformed
fibrous wrapping, corrugated paper, chalky mixture
containing magnesia, fiber felt, and insulating
cement. (Note: There are older materials labelled
"magnesia" which contain asbestos and new
materials also labelled "magnesia" which contain
glass fiber rather than asbestos.) Usually a protec-
tive jacket, which may also contain asbestos, made
of paper, tape, cloth, metal, or cement covers the
insulation materials. Boilers and tanks may be
insulated with asbestos "blankets" on wire lath,
preformed block, or the chalky magnesia mixture
which is typically covered with a finishing cement.
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Different approaches are required for removing
these asbestos-containing materials than sprayed on
or troweled-on ceiling insulation, but the same pro-
tective measures are used. Careful handling and
packaging is required in many cases because of the
metal jackets, bands, or wire associated with the
insulation materials.
Glovebags, which can be sealed around sections of
pipe to form "mini-containment areas" may be used
in some situations for removing pipe insulation (see
Glovebag Section). Insulated objects which are not
readily accessible or are too large or hot for appli-
cation of the glovebag technique, require a more
conventional approach.
Because insulation on pipes, boilers and tanks often
contains 70% asbestos and areas where these
materials are being removed are often confined,
high airborne fiber concentrations may occur. Also,
these materials are more difficult to saturate with
water and they often contain amosite, which is not
controlled as well with water as other types of
asbestos. For these reasons, Type C airline respira-
tors are recommended for removal workers engaged
in removal of asbestos from pipes and boilers.
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Removal of insulation from pipes, tanks or boilers
can be accomplished by two-person teams. Cuts or
slits are made in the insulation material, a spray
nozzle is inserted, and the material is wetted to the
extent feasible. One man cuts away the insulation
and bags it while the other continuously sprays the
material with amended water. Any metal bands or
wire that is removed should be folded or rolled and
placed in polyethylene to avoid lacerating personnel.
After the gross material is removed, nylon brushes
are used to thoroughly clean the pipes, tanks, or
boilers. Particular care must be taken to clean the
fittings and joints where a cement-plaster type
material has been removed. After brushing, the
surfaces are wet-wiped and the final cleanup phase
begins.
Special Considerations
Amended water is not totally effective in controll-
ing fibers emitted from material containing amosite
asbestos. Some contractors reportedly use ethylene
glycol and/or oils to help reduce amosite emissions.
Others have tried an encapsulant which is diluted so
that it drys slowly and does not harden before the
asbestos material can be removed from the pipes or
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boilers. No data is available from comparative
testing of these wetting methods to determine
which is the most effective.
Steam or hot water distribution networks should be
shut down, if at all possible, when insulation is being
removed. If these systems must stay on line, special
consideration must be given to heat stress by
workers and measures to avoid skin burns.
When airline respirators are being used by workers,
care must be taken not to let the airlines come into
contact with hot pipes which might burn a hole in
the rubber line. When airlines are worn by persons
working from scaffolds, care must be taken not to
wrap the airlines around objects on the ground or
the scaffold. See section on type C respirators
which addresses safety considerations.
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SAFETY AND HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS
(OTHER THAN ASBESTOS)
Objective: Provide an overview of non-asbestos related safety and health
problems encountered during asbestos abatement projects and provide
information necessary to manage these problems.
Learning Tasks: Information in this section should enable participants to:
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ELECTRICAL SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
THE HAZARD
One of the most common hazards, and one that
gives the least warning, is electrical power.
Incorrect wiring, improper grounding, and lack of
proper shielding result in 1000 people per year being
electrocuted. Many of these fatalities result from
contact with only 120 volts a.c.
Three factors determine the severity of electrical
shock. These are:
o The amount of current flowing through the
body.
o The path of the current flowing through
the body.
o The time the current flows through this
path.
These factors vary greatly. The path of the current
depends upon the points of contact. Most often the
path is from the hands, through the body, and out
the feet. The amount of electrical resistance deter-
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mines in part the amount of current flow. Moist
skin or damp conditions greatly reduce electrical
resistance and significantly increase a person's risk
of serious injury if he comes in contact with a
current source. In addition to the obvious shock
potential, many deaths result from falls after a non-
fatal electrical shock.
PRE-WORK CONSIDERATIONS/IDENTIFYING THE
HAZARDS
During the pre-bid inspection, during preparation of
the work site, and during removal, there are poten-
tial electrical hazards that can be identified and
eliminated. Examples include:
o Identification of wiring faults in the building:
Including open ground paths, reverse wiring
polarity, hot-neutral or hot-ground wires
reversed. These common faults can easily be
identified with plug-in type circuit testers and
should be corrected prior to the start up. This
is particularly important if these circuits will
be used to provide power inside the removal
area.
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o Uninsulated or exposed and energized wiring or
equipment; Removal jobs are often part of
renovation or remodeling projects. Overhead
lighting is often removed for cleaning.
Equipment or machinery may have been moved
out of the area during the removal job and
wiring left in place. Damaged equipment or
electrical fixtures may not have not been
repaired by the building owner. All of these
things may be combined to create sources of
contact with energized electrical circuits.
When possible, circuits that will not be used
during removal efforts should be turned-off and
locked out. Wiring and electrical connections
should always be considered energized unless
tested. Unenclosed wiring junctions in over-
head areas are a particularly likely point of
contact for removal workers.
o Abatement projects where the building remains
occupied; This is becoming more common as
industrial and commercial projects are increas-
ing. This can present problems where electrical
circuits or control panels inside the removal
area, that control other parts of the building,
must remain energized. Sealing transformers
or control boxes may not be possible due to
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heat build-up. If this situation is encountered,
polyethylene will have to be kept away to allow
for air circulation and dry removal around them
may be necessary.
o Providing power inside the removal area; This
can create hazards not associated with the
building systems. Since OSHA considers abate-
ment projects under the 29 CFR 1926
Construction Industry Safety and Health
Standards, there are special requirements for
supplying temporary power. This may be done
by supplying power through Ground Fault
Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) or having an
Assured Equipment Grounding Program in
effect. Use of GFCIs to protect all circuits
provides the safest power source since any
significant current leakage will trip the circuit.
These devices prove most effective when kept
outside the work area away from the high
humidity. An assured equipment grounding pro-
gram requires regular inspection of all tools,
cords, and electrical devices with written docu-
mentation maintained.
o Commonly found electrical devices on abate-
ment projects are; Lights, vacuum cleaners,
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Two Basic Forms of
GFCI Devices
CB3®
Circuit Breaker
Type
FRONT VISIBLE
10or?2KAiC' -
RATING LABEL
TRIP INDICATING
HANDLE FOR
IMMEDIATE
IDENTIFICATION OF
FAULTY CIRCUITS
PUSH TO TEST
BUTTON TO INSURE
PROPER OPERATION
CU/AL BOX LUGS
FOR QUALITY
TERMINATIONS
COPPER PIGTAIL IS
STRIPPED TO REDUCE
INSTALLATION TIME
POSITIVE LINE END
CONNECTION OF SAME
PROVEN QUALITY AS
CONVENTIONAL GE
CIRCUIT BREAKERS
HANDLE WITH
AMPERE RATING
GLASS REINFORCED
POLYESTER CASE
PROVIDES SUPERIOR
STRENGTH
TERMINAL MARKINGS
MOLDED INTO CASE
ALLOWS FASTER WIRING
GIFT
Ground Trip
Receptacle
Type
PRE-TAPPED
METAL YOKE FOR
INSTALLATION EASE
SLOPED EDGE
RECEPTACLE SLOTS FOR
SURE-EASY PLUG
INSERTION
HIGHLY VISIBLE RED
BAND FOR POSITIVE
TRIP INDICATION
PERMANENT MOLDED
IN INSTRUCTIONS FOR
EASE OF MAINTENANCE
GLASS POLYESTER
BODY FOR TOP
DI-ELECTRIC
CHARACTERISTICS
COLOR CODED FULL
7-LEADSPRESTRIPPED
TO REDUCE
INSTALLATION TIME
PUSH-TO-TEST AND RESET
CONTROLS INSURE
PROPER OPERATION
HIGH STRENGTH IMPACT
RESISTANT NORYL BASE
FOR RUGGEDNESS
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negative air systems, drills, saws, heaters, sump
pumps, and often, radios. All of these should be
inspected regularly for damage, proper ground-
ing, and integrity of insulation.
With the above mentioned items in place, there are
still several basic items that should not be over-
looked. Non-metallic tools should be used for
scraping to prevent a possible shock if wiring is cut
or contact is made with energized equipment. Hard
rubber or plastic scrapers, while more difficult to
find, perform well for removal. Wooden or fiber-
glass ladders reduce or eliminate a ground path if a
worker contacts an energized circuit.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY REVIEW
The use of wet methods increases the potential for
electrical shock when working around electrical
panels, conduit, light fixtures, alarm systems, junc-
tion boxes, computers, transformers, etc.
De-energize as much equipment as possible. Use
portable flood-light systems for lighting and regu-
larly check the system and wiring for damage.
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Consider using dry removal in areas immediately
adjacent to energized electrical equipment if de-
energizing is not feasible.
Use non-conductive scrapers and vacuum attach-
ments (wood, plastic, rubber).
Supply workers with heavy insulated rubber boots
and/or gloves when working around energized wiring
or equipment..
Utilize "hot-line" covers over energized cables and
powerlines when possible.
Ensure all electrical equipment in use is properly
grounded before the job starts. This means checking
outlets, wiring, extension cords and power pickups.
Check for the ground-pin on plugs. These checks
should also be made while setting up and regularly
during the job.
Use care not to violate insulated coverings with
scrapers, scaffolding wheels, etc.
Avoid stringing electrical wiring across floors.
Elevate wiring if possible to keep it away from
water on the floor and damage from foot traffic and
rolling scaffolds.
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Do not allow water to accumulate in puddles on
work area floors. Some specifications require damp
floors, not deep water!
Ensure electrical outlets are tightly sealed and
taped to avoid water spray.
Always perform a pre-work walk-through to identify
potential sources of electrical hazards to abatement
workers, or equipment that may be damaged by wet
removal methods.
Utilize stable wooden or fiberglass ladders - not
metal.
Determine operating voltages of equipment & lines
before working on or near energized parts.
Electrical equipment and lines should be considered
energized unless tested and determined otherwise.
Energized parts must be insulated or guarded from
employee contact and any other conductive object.
Extension cords used with portable electric tools
and appliances must be the three-wire type and
connected to a GFI circuit.
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Extension cords:
o should be protected from accidental
damage.
o should not be fastened with staples, hung
from nails, or suspended by wire (tape is an
acceptable alternative).
Portable electric handtools should meet the follow-
ing requirements:
o Should be equipped with a 3-wire cord
having a ground wire permanently fixed to
the tool frame; or
o Should be of double-insulated type and
labeled as such.
For circuits over 600 volts, if electrical disconnects
are not visible and open or locked out, the following
requirements should be met:
o Circuits to be de-energized are clearly
identified and isolated from all energy
sources.
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o Notification received from a designated
employee that all switches and disconnec-
tors that could supply energy have been de-
energized, locked out, and plainly tagged
to show men at work.
o Visual inspections and tests made to assure
deenergizing of lines and equipment.
o Protective grounds applied to disconnected
lines or equipment.
o Separate tag and lockout attached for each
crew requiring deenergizing of same line or
equipment.
o Tags should not be removed from
completed work until designated employees
report that all crew members are clear,
protective grounds they installed have been
removed.
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LADDERS/SCAFFOLDING/WALKING - WORKING SURFACES
(INSPECTIONS AND PROPER USE)
LADDERS AND SCAFFOLDS
Asbestos abatement projects always present risks to
workers from falls, slips, or trips. The nature of the
tasks necessitate the use of scaffolding and ladders.
LADDERS
The following items should be checked on a regular
basis:
o Ladders are always maintained in good
condition.
o Complete inspections are done periodic-
ally.
o No improvised repairs are made.
o Defective ladders are not used.
o Safety feet spreaders and other com-
ponents of ladders are in good condition.
(Missing safety feet create sharp edges
that will cut polyethylene floor covers.)
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o Movable parts operate freely without bind-
ing or undue play.
o Rungs are kept free of grease or oil.
o Ladders are not used for other than their
intended purpose. (Ladders should not be
used as a platform or walkboard.)
o Extension type ladders should be used with
a 1-4 lean ratio (1 foot out for every 4 feet
of elevation).
o Step ladders should only be used when fully
open.
o The user faces the ladder while going up
and down.
o Tops are not used as steps. If needed, get
a longer ladder.
o Bracing on the back legs is not used for
climbing.
o Portable ladders are used by one person at
a time.
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o Ladders are secured to prevent displace-
ment during use.
o All ladders have well designed safety
shoes.
o Hook or other type ladders used in struc-
tures are positively secured.
o Wood or fiberglass ladders should be
selected to avoid electrical hazards of
metal ladders.
SCAFFOLDING
Most asbestos abatement projects will involve the
use of scaffolding. Proper set up, regular inspec-
tion, and basic maintenance should not be over-
looked. In many removal projects, manually pro-
pelled mobile scaffolding provides a convenient and
efficient work platform. OSHA standards require
that when free standing mobile scaffolding is used,
the height shall not exceed four times the minimum
base dimension. This requirement is based on the
fact that scaffolding is easily turned over. The
figure illustrates a simple method to calculate the
amount of force necessary to tip a scaffold. Since
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SCAFFOLD UPSET FORMULA
Where:
(B) = height from floor
to ceiling
(f) = force required to
upset scaffold
(W) = weight of scaffold
and worker
(A) = 1/2 width of scaffold
Example:
(B) = 14'
(f) = x
(W) = 374 Ibs.
199 Ib scaffold
175 Ib man
(A) = 1'
Force to upset: 26.7 Ibs.
14 (x)
(x)
(x) =
374 x I
374 x 1
14
26.7 Ibs.
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relatively little force is required to tip a scaffold, it
becomes important to make sure that wheels on
mobile scaffolds move freely and are in good repair.
If rented scaffolding is used, all components should
be inspected prior to accepting it. Wheels should
turn freely and be lubricated. All components such
as cross bracing, railings, pin connectors, planking
or scaffold grade lumber should be available before
the units are assembled. When workers will be
riding mobile scaffolding the base dimension should
be at least one half of the height. Workers should
be careful to keep debris bagged and obstacles off
the floor where mobile scaffolds will be used. If a
wheel catches on debris on the floor when the unit is
moved, additional force will be required to move it.
This additional force may be all that is needed to
turn the unit over.
Guardrails should always be installed on scaffolding
used for abatement projects. Workers are usually
looking up while working and can easily step of the
edge of an unprotected scaffold. OSHA requires
that guardrails be used when scaffolding is from 4 to
10 feet tall and less than 45 inches wide. Scaffold-
ing 10 feet or higher should always have guardrails.
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Planking used on a scaffold should not extend far-
ther than 12" over the edges and should always be
secured to the frame.
SLIPS. TRIPS, AND FALLS
Areas sealed with polyethylene and kept damp to
reduce airborne fibers become very slick.
Disposable booties are a potential trip hazard. Air
and electrical lines create trip hazards. All of these
conditions create potential worker hazards even
before removal begins. When asbestos and other
debris are removed, the accumulations should be
bagged and removed from the floor as soon as
possible. This simple step, which may require more
initial effort, will make cleanup easier and the
overall job far safer.
In summary:
o Consider the height of the work, equipment
in use, and numerous trip hazards. Take a
look at your "walking surfaces".
o The use of disposable booties may be
impractical in many removal situations.
They may come apart and create a serious
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trip hazard. Seamless rubber boots, slip-on
shoes or safety shoes with non-skid soles
may be an alternative depending on the
job.
o Inspect ladders and scaffolding for condi-
tion. Ensure railings are adequate on scaf-
folds.
o Minimize water on floors. Wet poly-
ethylene is very slick and water increases
the risk of electrical shock.
o Use care around air lines and electrical
cords.
o Suspend electrical lines and cords when
possible using tape.
o No running, jumping or horseplay in work
areas should ever be allowed.
o Minimize debris on floors.
o Pick up tools, scrapers, etc.
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FIRE CONSIDERATIONS
A few of the fire safety features to be concerned
with are exits, travel distances, emergency lighting,
and alarm systems.
Sealing off an area and blocking entrance/exit open-
ings conflict with OSHA, NFPA, and local fire code
requirements. The contract specifications may
state "one means of egress through a properly
designed air lock and decontamination system";
however, emergency plans should be developed to
include alternative exits in emergency situations
and these must be familiar to all employees.
Perform a pre-work survey to determine potential
fire hazards, sources of ignition, hot-spots, and
location of exits. Coordinate this with the number
of workers to be'in the area, the square footage, and
the types and amount of combustible/flammable
materials that will remain on site.
Some protective clothing will burn and melt quickly.
It can shrink, adhere to skin and drip as it burns.
Heavy black smoke is a combustion by-product.
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Polyethylene (it's combustible) will start to burn
slowly and pick up speed as more heat is generated.
It gives off heavy smoke as the fire progresses.
Flame spread is slow and steady. Sheeting should be
kept away from heat sources such as transformers,
steam pipes, boilers, etq., that will be heated during
removal. (Polyethylene should not be allowed to
contact surfaces above 150°F.)
To avoid fire problems in asbestos control areas;
o Ensure all sources of ignition are removed. Be
sure that gas and other fuel sources are cut off
and that pilot lights in boilers, heaters, hot
water tanks, compressors, etc., are extin-
guished.
o Locate "hot spots." Quite often you will have
to drape equipment instead of sealing off to
prevent overheating (i.e., computers, terminal
boards, switch panels, transformers).
o Cut off supply to steam lines, electric and
steam heaters, and radiators. Do not permit
the polyethylene to lay against hot surfaces.
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o Do not allow lighters, matches, etc., into the
work area. Strictly enforce no smoking, eating,
or drinking inside the work area.
o When using an oxygen/acetylene torch to cut
pipe, etc., post a fire watch with an appropriate
fire extinguisher such as pressurized water. Do
not use CO2 extinguishers in confined or
enclosed spaces. Dry chemical extinguishers
are effective, but the powder is a respiratory
irritant.
o When using a cutting torch, know what is on the
other side of the wall and below the floor. Use
sheet metal or a treated tarp to catch sparks.
o Reduce the amount of flammable/combustible
materials inside a space to minimum prior to
hanging plastic. This includes removal of any
chemicals, flammable liquids, heat sensitive
materials, etc.
o Mark exits from work area and post directional
arrows when exits are not visible from remote
work areas. This can easily be done using duct
tape on the polyethylene walls and barriers.
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o Keep trash and debris to a minimum (i.e., tape,
poly, bags, lumber, etc.).
o If the work area is large and many workers are
present, several emergency exits may be
needed. Choose exits that are locked from
outside but can be opened from the inside. A
daily inspection should be conducted to insure
secondary exits are not blocked.
o Lighting of exits and exit routes should be
provided.
o In case of fire, the fire hazard becomes more
immediate than the asbestos hazard and
workers may need to violate the plastic
barriers. This should be covered with workers
in the emergency action plan for the job site.
o Be alert for flammable vapors in industrial
areas (solvents such as naphtha, toluene, xylol,
etc.). This is especially critical in industrial
vacuuming operations where vacuum motors are
not explosion proof. Compressed air vacuums
may be required.
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o A telephone should be available at all times for
notification of authorities in an emergency.
o Post local Fire Department and Rescue Squad
phone numbers. Advise them of the operations
in progress.
o Ensure that you have a monitor outside at all
times trained in emergency procedures.
Someone should be trained in first aid, and in
the treatment of heat stress.
Effective December 11, 1980, the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration revised its fire
safety standards. OSHA now requires a written
emergency action plan and fire prevention plan.
The new requirements are detailed in 29 CFR
1910.38. Briefly, the essential items of the plans
should include:
o The manner in which emergencies are
announced.
o Emergency escape procedures and emergency
escape routes.
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o Procedures for employees who must remain to
operate critical plant operations which may
take time to shut down.
o Procedures to account for all employees after
evacuation.
o Rescue and medical duties.
o Names and/or job titles of people to be con-
tacted for additional information.
o A list of the major workplace fire hazards.
o Names and/or job titles of people responsible
for maintenance of fire prevention equipment.
o Names and/or job titles of people responsible
for the control of fuel source hazards.
Establish a system for alerting workers of a fire or
other problem that may require evacuation of the
work area. A compressed air boat horn provides an
effective alarm that can be heard and does not rely
on a power source. All persons entering the work
area should be familiar with the evacuation alarm
signal and primary and secondary exits. A simple
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floor plan drawing of the work area should be posted
to familiarize persons entering the work area with
the site and location of exits.
Written emergency procedures should cover proce-
dures to be used in case of: fire, with heavy smoke
conditions; power failure; compressor failure with
the use of air-supplied respirators; accident; or
employee injury.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES/MEDICAL SERVICES
AND FIRST AID
OSHA requires that all employees exposed to
asbestos be offered a physical exam within 30 days
of employment and within 30 days before or after
termination. The examining physician or clinic
should be aware that employees will be exposed to
asbestos and will be required to wear respirators and
work under hot and adverse conditions. During
warm months, heat exhaustion and heat stroke are
serious hazards faced by workers, particularly those
not acclimated to the heat.
HEAT-RELATED DISORDERS
It is important for the employer to provide training
in the symptoms and effects of heat stress and heat
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stroke. It is also important to stress the importance
of drinking water and maintaining proper electrolyte
levels.
HEAT EXHAUSTION:
Symptoms:
o Fatigue, weakness, profuse sweating,
normal temperature, pale clamy skin,
headache, cramps, vomiting, fainting.
Treatment:
o Medical Alert
o Remove worker from hot area.
o Have worker lay down and raise feet
o Apply cool wet cloths
o Loosen or remove clotting
o Allow small sips of water or gatorade
if victim is not vomiting
Prevention:
o Frequent breaks
o Increase fluid intake
o Allow workers to become acclimatized
to heat.
Causes:
o High Air Temperature
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o High Humidity
o Low Air Movement
o Hard Work
o Not enough breaks
o Insufficient fluid intake
o Full body clothing
o Workers not acclimated to heat
HEAT STROKE:
Symptoms:
o Dizziness, Nausea, Severe Headache,
Hot Dry Skin, Confusion, Collapse,
Delerium, Coma, & Death
Treatment:
o Medical Emergency
o Remove worker from Hot Area
o Remove Clothing
o Have them lay down
o Cool Body
o Do Not Give Stimulants
Causes:
o High Air Temperature
o High Humidity
o Low Air Movement
o Hard Work
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o Not Enough Breaks
o Not Drinking Enough Water
o Full Body Clothing
o Not Acclimatized
Telephone numbers of the physicians, hospitals, or
ambulances should be conspicuously posted.
To provide for prompt transport of an injured person
to a physician or hospital either:
o Proper equipment is provided; or
o Telephone with emergency phone numbers
is readily available.
Before beginning the project, provisions are made
for prompt medical attention in case of serious
injury.
Someone trained in basic first-aid should always be
on the abatement project.
When airline respiratory protection is used, it is
important that the outside monitor be familiar with
the system and any problems associated with
breathing air. Carbon monoxide poisoning is perhaps
the most important of these problems. It is impor-
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tant to note that these symptoms are similar and
may be confused with those from heat stress.
CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING
SYMPTOMS - Dizziness, Nausea, Headache,
Drowsiness, Vomiting, Col-
lapse, Coma, & Death
SOURCES
Oil Lubricated Compressor
Internal Combustion Engine
Open Flame & Fire
Unvented Gas/
Kerosene Heaters
DESCRIPTION - Colorless, Odorless & Taste-
less
LIMITS
50 ppm (Time Weighted
Average over 8 hours)
500 ppm (Short Form Exposure
Limit - 15 minutes)
20 ppm (Grade D breathing air
for airline respirators)
(Maximum allowable concen-
tration)
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If these symptoms are observed, those persons
should immediately be brought into fresh air and
medical attention should be provided.
Monitor any prescription or over the counter medi-
cines being used by employees. These may cause an
adverse reaction when used by persons under
adverse conditions common to removal work.
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BODY PROTECTION
Provide and require use of special whole body cloth-
ing, including shoes, for any employee exposed to
airborne concentrations of asbestos.
Provide gloves as part of whole body protection to
employees exposed to asbestos. This is particularly
important when metal lath, suspended ceiling grids,
and other materials are being removed.
Scrapers, package knives, wire cutters, chisels and
other sorts of bladed tools are frequently used.
Always cut away from the body.
Many puncture and cut wounds occur when removing
metal lath or cutting duct work. Use care and have
a good first aid kit available.
Protective hardhats must be worn at all times by
employees on a jobsite where there is exposure to
falling objects, electric shock or burn.
Provide, require the use of, and maintain in sanitary
and reliable condition protective equipment neces-
sary to protect any employee from any hazard which
could cause injury or illness.
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Wear non-fogging face shields or goggles for opera-
tions involving potential eye injury.
Check with your surfactant supplier on irritant
properties of your wetting agent. (Always have a
material safety data sheet on all of your materials
and familiarize workers with any cautions or special
considerations for their safe use.)
Arrange work so workers do not have to look direct-
ly overhead. Get them up to the job!
Instruct your workers on proper lifting methods.
Nothing will take the profit out of a job faster than
a serious back injury.
Use the "buddy system" for lifting and moving heavy
objects.
Use hand carts or rolling pallets when possible.
Keep manual material handling to a minimum.
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MISCELLANEOUS
OSHA requires that a poster be permanently posted
on the job site notifying workers of their rights
under the act. This poster, commonly known as the
"Job Safety and Health Poster," is available from
OSHA offices.
When an employer has 10 or more employees, he is
required to maintain a record of injuries and ill-
nesses that occur. Part of this requirement is met
by filling out accident reports required by Worker's
Compensation insurance carriers. The other
requirement is maintenance of the "Log and
Summary of Occupational Illnesses and Injuries --
OSHA Log 200." These forms and a booklet titled,
"What Every Employer Needs to Know About OSHA
Recordkeeping," is available from OSHA and pro-
vides information on these recordkeeping require-
ments.
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SAMPLING AND ANALYTICAL METHODOLOGY
PERTAINING TO ASBESTOS ABATEMENT
Objective: To provide an overview of the requirements and methods for sampling
and analyzing asbestos-containing materials before, during, and after
an asbestos abatement project.
Learning Tasks: Information in this section should enable participants to:
CCSJ3" Become familiar with the various methods used for sampling
asbestos as a bulk material, airborne fibers, or settled dust.
CCST" Become familiar with the analytical methods used to analyze
bulk, air, and settled dust samples.
CCSf" Know the common units for reporting airborne fiber
concentrations.
CCSP" Understand the sampling strategy used for monitoring on
asbestos abatement projects.
CCSjp" Understand important aspects of re-entry air monitoring
including visual inspection, aggressive monitoring and clearance
criteria.
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SAMPLING AND ANALYTICAL METHODS
PERTAINING TO ASBESTOS-CONTAINING
MATERIALS
Sampling and analytical methods are important tools
for assessing and monitoring asbestos materials.
The applications of sampling and analyses may range
from bulk sampling of suspect materials; to estimat-
ing airborne fiber levels before, during, and after an
abatement project; to checking surfaces for
asbestos-containing settled dust. Collection of reli-
able data requires a thorough knowledge of the
various sampling and analytical techniques which
are available and when a particular technique should
be used.
This discussion is an introduction to the types of
sampling methods and various analytical techniques
used for asbestos-containing materials. After these
methods have been described, the applications of
these methods to an asbestos abatement project will
be discussed.
Sampling and Analysis - A Perspective
Sampling techniques are procedures used to collect
data representative of the environment. It is anala-
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gous to testing a piece of the pie to determine what
the entire pie tastes like. If you only taste the
crust, then your "sample" will not be representative
of the entire pie.
Analytical methods are used to determine what is in
the sample. Using the pie again, let's say an
adequate sample was collected (an entire wedge).
Let us also use the analytical technique of "touch."
This will tell us the size and shape of the sample.
From this data, we can estimate the size and shape
of the entire pie. "Touch" will also tell us if it is a
creme pie. However, the "analytical technique"
would not be adequate to determine the flavor or
color of the pie.
Just like the pie, the same holds true for sampling
and analyzing asbestos. There are many different
methods to perform a specific task with each
method revealing different bits of information. A
person knowledgeable of those techniques selects
the appropriate methods to obtain the desired infor-
mation.
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SAMPLING METHODS
Air Sampling
Air sampling is conducted to determine airborne
fiber concentrations before, during, and after abate-
ment activities. Sampling is conducted with
battery-powered pumps, which are used to pull low
volumes of air (0.5 - 4 liters per minute) and
electric pumps which pull high air volumes (4-10
liters per minute). Pumps are calibrated before and
after use. A plastic cassette which holds a filter
with very small pore openings is attached to the
pump with flexible tubing (Figures XIII-1 and XIII-2).
With the front cover of the cassette removed, air is
drawn through the filter and particles in the air are
collected on the filter surface. The type of filter
used for sampling depends on the technique which
will be used for analysis.
The two basic types of air sampling are area and
personal monitoring. Area air samples are taken
with a pump that is placed at breathing zone height
at some stationary location. The top cover of the
plastic filter holder is removed and the filter holder
is pointed downward to prevent material from fall-
ing onto the filter. The pump is turned on and the
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start time and sample description are recorded. The
pump should be checked periodically (every 30
minutes) to make sure it is functioning properly.
Also, the filter should be visibly inspected for
overloading. At the end of the sampling period, the
pump is turned off and the cover of the filter holder
is replaced and secured with tape. The stop time
and any other comments about sampling conditions
are then recorded. Personal samples are collected
from within the breathing zone (as close to the
mouth as possible) of an individual, but outside the
respirator. Personal samples are collected in the
same manner as area samples except the pump is
hung from a disposable tape belt around the worker's
wrist and the filter holder is attached, pointing
downward, to the worker's lapel or collar.
Area air samples can be collected using static or
aggressive sampling techniques. Static sampling
implies monitoring an area as it is without creating
any additional disturbance in the air. This method is
typically used during the removal phase of the
abatement project. An obvious criticism of this
technique for clearance sampling when no one is in
the area is that the fibers that have settled out of
the air are not detected. An alternative sampling
technique which addresses this concern is to create
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an artificial disturbance in the air during sampling.
Aggressive sampling can be accomplished by using
electric fans, sweeping, blowers, etc. Currently,
there is no standard protocol for using aggressive
sampling techniques, but further guidance is avail-
able from the EPA Regional Asbestos Coordinators
or the EPA-sponsored Information Centers.
Bulk Sampling
Bulk sampling is the technique used to collect
samples of suspect materials such as fireproofing,
pipe lagging, boiler insulation, and acoustical spray.
Bulk sampling is usually conducted during the build-
ing survey/hazard assessment and provides data for
decisions on control measures. If bulk sampling data
is not available to the contractor during his walk-
through survey, he may choose to collect some bulk
samples (see section on Pre-Work Activities/
Considerations.
A small sample of suspect material is collected and
placed in a container or a small jar. Further
guidance may be found in Guidance for Controlling
Asbestos-Containing Materials in Buildings,
Appendix G (see Section II). Anyone taking bulk
samples should wear a cartridge respirator and pro-
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tective clothing if a large number of samples are
going to be collected. Bulk samples are analyzed by
an analytical laboratory, typically using polarized
light microscopy, to determine if asbestos is present
and the type and percentage of asbestos in the
sample. Bulk samples can also be analyzed by
electron microscopy.
Settled Dust
Settled dust sampling can be accomplished by scrap-
ing an area containing accumulated dust and placing
the material in a small container. Alternatively,
settled dust sampling can be conducted (by "suction-
ing" the area with a filter in a cassette which is
attached to an air pump. This material is then
treated like a bulk sample with analysis by polarized
light or electron microscopy.
Wipe Sampling
Wipe sampling is another technique used to deter-
mine trace amounts of asbestos on surfaces. A
filter material is used to wipe an area (usually a
square foot) and submitted to the laboratory for
analysis by electron microscopy.
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Tape Sampling
Tape sampling is similar to wipe sampling except a
cellophane tape is used to collect settled dust. The
sample is normally analyzed by scanning electron
microscopy.
ANALYTICAL METHODS
The primary analytical techniques used for analyz-
ing airborne fibers collected on filters are phase
contrast microscopy (PCM), scanning electron
microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron
microscopy (TEM). Table XIII-1 summarizes the
advantages/disadvantages of each. Bulk samples are
generally analyzed by polarized light microscopy
(PLM). Other less-used techniques which may be
used for analysis of bulk samples are x-ray diffrac-
tion (XAD), infrared spectroscopy (IR), and electron
microscopy. The fibrous aerosol monitor is an
instrument which can be used in the field to obtain
an index of the airborne fiber levels. The applica-
tion of each of these techniques to analyze for
asbestos materials is discussed in this section.
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Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM)
Phase contrast microscopy (PCM) is a technique
using a light microscope equipped to provide
enhanced contrast between the fibers and the back-
ground. Samples for PCM are collected on a cellu-
lose ester membrane filter with a 0.8 micrometer
pore size. Filters are then cleared with a chemical
solution so that trapped particulate material can be
viewed through the microscope at a magnification
of approximately 400X. PCM is inexpensive
($25-35) and can be performed on the job site in a
few hours.
Phase contrast microscopy is frequently referred to
as the light microscope method, the filter mem-
brane method, or the NIOSH method. PCM is the
analytical method specified in the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Asbestos
Standard (29 CFR 1910.1001), which was developed
for industrial settings. PCM was first used to
monitor asbestos exposure to workers in asbestos
product manufacturing or milling operations for
prevention of asbestosis. This method does not
distinguish between fiber types and only counts
those fibers longer than 5 micrometers and wider
than about 0.25 micrometers. Because of these
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limitations, fiber counts by PCM typically provide
only an index of the total concentration of airborne
asbestos in the environment monitored. As the
proportion of the airborne fibers which are less
than 0.25 micrometers in diameter increases (i.e.,
non-industrial settings such as asbestos abatement
projects), PCM becomes a less reliable analytical
tool.
There are two fiber counting methods for phase
contrast microscopy. P&CAM 239 is the original
method which was implemented for estimating air-
borne concentrations. The NIOSH 7400 method is an
improved version of P&CAM 239 which provides for
a lower limit of detection. Both methods are
currently being used in the industry.
Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is a technique
which directs an electron beam onto the sample
surface and collects those beams that are reflected.
A magnified image is produced on a viewing screen.
Air samples for SEM filter counting are collected on
a nuclepore polycarbonate filter with a 0.45 micro-
meter pore size. The cost is about $150-300 per
sample and several days may be required to obtain
results.
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SEM can identify large fibers by morphology and
elemental analyses when connected to an energy
dispersive x-ray analyzer. Fibers which are 0.05
micrometers in diameter are the smallest that can
be detected using SEM. This method has some fiber
identification problems with thin fibers and flat,
platy particles that display poor contrast. Also,
there is no standard protocol for this method.
Currently, SEM provides somewhat better informa-
tion than PCM analysis, but the method cannot be
used to conclusively identify or quantify asbestos.
Transmission Electron Microscopy
Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is a tech-
nique which focuses an electron beam onto a thin
sample. As the beam transmits through certain
areas of the sample, an image resulting from vary-
ing density of the sample is projected onto a fluo-
rescent screen. Air samples are collected on nucle-
pore polycarbonate filter for TEM analysis. The
cost is about $400-600 per sample. The analyses can
be performed within several days, but due to the
limited number of experienced laboratories, it often
takes several weeks or more to obtain results.
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Transmission electron microscopy is currently con-
sidered the best available analytical method for
identifying asbestos fibers collected on air samples
in non-industrial settings. TEM can identify the
smallest fibers and is specific for asbestos. TEM
equipped with selected area electron diffraction
(SAED) capabilities can also provide information on
the crystal structure of an individual particle.
Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM)
Polarized light microscopy is the most commonly
accepted method for analyzing bulk materials for
the presence of asbestos. This method of inexpen-
sive ($25-50 per sample) and can be performed in a
few hours. PLM is based on optical mineralogy
using a light microscope equipped with polarizing
filters. Identification of asbestos fiber bundles is
based on the determination of optical properties
displayed when the sample is treated with various
dispersion staining liquids (refraction index liquids).
In addition, identification can be substantiated by
morphology of the fiber and the effect of polarized
light on the fiber.
The reliable limit of detection for this method is
about one percent asbestos. Samples of extremely
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fine dusts, such as brake dust should be analyzed by
electron microscopy which can detect the smaller
fibers.
X-Ray Diffraction (XRD)
X-ray diffraction is a method of analyzing bulk
materials for asbestos. It is not as sensitive as PLM
with a detection limit of about three percent asbes-
tos. It is sometimes used to confirm the presence of
asbestos in a sample already analyzed by PLM. Cost
of analysis is about $50-100 per sample.
Infrared Spectroscopy
Infrared spectroscopy is another method of analyz-
ing bulk materials for asbestos. Like XRD, its limit
of detection is about three percent and is only used
to confirm the presence of asbestos in a sample
analyzed by PLM. The cost of analysis is about
$45-75 per sample.
Fibrous Aerosol Monitor (FAM)
The fibrous aerosol monitor is an instrument which
uses laser light and electrical field technologies to
instantaneously analyze the fiber content of the air.
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The instrument provides a continuous measurement,
with direct readout of the number concentration of
airborne filters. The FAM can be used in conjunc-
tion with a strip chart to provide a record of air
quality conditions. The FAM is typically used as a
barometer of airborne fiber levels rather than a
precision testing device. Its most useful function is
to alert personnel to any suddent elevation of the
area fiber count. If the FAM is used on a project, it
should be used in conjunction with other traditional
air sampling techniques and in place of them.
This instrument does not distinguish fiber types and
cannot discriminate between fibers and certain par-
ticles that have sufficient shape irregularities to
possess fiber characteristics. The FAM does not
detect fibers less than 0.5 micrometers in diameter.
Laboratory tests indicate FAM concentration read-
ings are generally within _+ 25 percent of the optical
membrane filter count.
SAMPLING STRATEGIES AND PROCEDURES FOR
AN ABATEMENT PROJECT
Air Sampling Before Abatement Begins
Area air sampling conducted before abatement
activities begin to estimate the existing airborne
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fiber concentrations inside and outside the building
is termed prevalent level sampling. These results
can be used as control data for comparing sample
concentrations detected during and after the abate-
ment project. Prevalent level sampling provides
good data for documentation purposes. It is particu-
larly useful when an abatement project is conducted
in a portion of the building, with other areas of the
building remaining occupied. Airborne fiber levels
monitored in these occupied areas during the abate-
ment project should never exceed the indicated
prevalent level in these areas before the project
began. Also, the airborne fiber concentrations in-
side the abatement area after cleanup is completed
cannot be expected to be lower than the airborne
fiber levels outside the building before abatement
began.
Because low airborne fiber concentrations are typi-
cally found prior to abatement activities, a large
volume of air should be sampled to obtain a low
detection limit. Simply stated, detection limit is
the lowest value that can be reliably reported for
the sampling and analytical methods used. The
volume of air measured to obtain a 0.01 fiber per
cubic centimeter of air (fiber/cc)* detection limit
should range between 1000 to 2500 liters, depending
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on the filter size and counting method used.
Samples can be collected at a flow/rate of 2-15 liters
per minute.
Prevalent samples should be collected throughout
the building as well as in the areas where abatement
will take place. As a rule of thumb, one sample
should be taken for every 50,000 cubic feet (5,000
sq. ft. with 10 ft ceilings) of building space (mini-
mum of 3 samples). At least two samples should be
collected from outside the building.
Because results of prevalent level sampling are used
as baseline data, the same sampling and analytical
techniques should be used for prevalent samples as
will be used for samples taken outside the work area
during and after the removal project.
*1 fiber per cubic centimeter is equivalent to
1,000,000 fibers in a cubic meter (approximately 1
cubic yard) = approximately 1 cubic centimeter.
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AIR SAMPLING DURING AND AFTER THE
ASBESTOS ABATEMENT PROJECT
Personal Sampling
Personal sampling is conducted during a renovation
or abatement project to determine employees' expo-
sure (outside any respirator) to airborne fibers.
Data from personal monitoring serves many pur-
poses. Personal monitoring during an abatement
project is required by the OSHA Asbestos Standard
(29 CFR 1910.1001). Under OSHA and hazard
communication laws, employees have the right to
know the asbestos concentrations to which they are
exposed and what measures are being taken to
protect them. Also, results of personal sampling
can be used to select proper respiratory protection
for an employee if conditions warrant something
other than Type C respirators (see Respiratory
Section). Data from personal monitoring can be
used as an indication of effective removal or control
techniques which result in the lowest employee
exposure. This, in turn, reduces the potential of
asbestos-related diseases and the risk to the worker.
Personal samples should be taken during the first
full day of removal activity. Additional personal
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samples should be taken when the type of material
being removed or the location (i.e., building)
changes. OSHA requires initial monitoring and
monitoring every six months thereafter. Personal
samples should be collected at least every two
weeks during a long abatement project, assuming
there are no major changes in work practices, types
of asbestos, etc.
Personal samples should be collected at a flowrate
of 1-2 liters per minute from at least 25% of the
workers doing a particular job. Samples for asbestos
exposure should be taken to determine the 8-hour,
time-weighted concentration. Over an eight-hour
period, filters may have to be changed several times
to prevent overloading. Results of each sample are
put into this equation to obtain a time-weighted
average for the total sampling period.
= Time Weighted Average
T! + ^2 + Tj ...
GI, C2 ... = Concentration of each sample
"l"l» T2 ... = Duration of each sample
Typically, phase contrast microscopy is used to
analyze personal samples collected during the
removal project.
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Area Air Sampling Inside the Work Area
In addition to personal samples, area air samples are
collected inside the work area daily to determine
the concentrations of airborne asbestos fibers.
Usually, 2 to 3 samples of 60 to 120 liters of air are
usually adequate to index the airborne fiber concen-
trations inside the work area. The data from these
samples can be used on a relative basis to monitor
work conditions from one day to the next. A radical
increase in area concentrations would signal that
work practices needed to be adjusted.
Area Air Sampling Outside the Work Area/Inside the
Building
During an abatement project, samples are collected
from locations outside the work area, but inside the
building to determine how well asbestos fibers are
being contained to the worksite. These samples are
especially important in situations where unprotected
people are occupying other areas of the building (see
Figure XIII-3). Potential leakage points where sam-
pling should be conducted include the clean side of
the containment barriers separating the work area
from occupied parts of the building and inside the
shower and clean rooms of the decontamination
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unit. If the abatement project is being conducted in
a multistory building, area air samples should be
collected from floors above and below the abate-
ment activity.
A large air volume of 1000 to 2500 liters is neces-
sary to obtain the desired detection limit of 0.01
fibers per cubic centimeter for these samples. High
volume pumps can be used to shorten the sampling
time so that problems which develop can be
detected relatively quickly. Phase contrast micros-
copy is generally the analytical method used for
these air samples.
Area Air Sampling Outside the Building
Area air samples are placed in locations outside of
the building during an abatement project to detect
leakage of fibers from the worksite. Typically,
pumps are placed at the entrance of the decontami-
nation unit, at doors or windows, near the exhaust of
negative air filtration units, and at the waste load-
out area. Generally, high volume samples are
collected and analyzed by phase contrast micros-
copy.
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Air Sampling After Final Cleanup of the Work Area
Area air sampling is conducted upon conclusion of
an asbestos abatement project to estimate the air-
borne fiber concentrations of residual fibers. The
area must pass a thorough visual inspection for
remaining material before final clearance sampling
is initiated. Samples are placed inside the work
area, and inside the building/outside the work area
at approximately one sample for every 50,000 cubic
feet (5,000 sq. ft. with 10 ft. ceilings), with a
minimum of three in the work area. It is also
important to take two to three outdoor air samples
for comparison. A low limit of detection is neces-
sary so high volume samples are collected.
Ideally, phase contrast microscopy and electron
microscopy are used in combination as a two-stage
process for final clearance sampling. Phase con-
trast analyses can be used to determine if any gross
contamination remains in the work and side-by-side
samples can be taken for analyses by electron
microscopy. If the PCM samples indicate airborne
fiber levels are below 0.01 fibers/cc using aggres-
sive sampling techniques, then the other set of
samples are submitted for analyses by electron
microscopy. As discussed earlier, TEM is the
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analytical method recognized as having the best
resolution and positive fiber identification capabili-
ties.
The airborne fiber concentration for clearance by
TEM is also 0.01 fibers/cc with aggressive sampling
or the concentrations indicated by the outside air
samples, whichever is higher. If the results by TEM
analysis indicate the airborne fiber concentrations
are higher than this clearance standard, then the
area should be recleaned and retested until the
criterion is met.
An argument for using only PCM to perform final
clearance sampling is that the turn-around time and
cost for TEM analysis is prohibitive. Contractors
could be on stand-by for several days waiting for
TEM results. One solution to this problem is to use
the 0.01 fiber/cc by PCM and aggressive sampling as
the criterion for releasing the contractor. If TEM
results indicate additional cleaning is necessary, this
could be done under a separate work order or the
removal contractor could return to reclean the work
area under a separate contract. This process does
take additional time between completion of cleanup
and release for reoccupancy. Proper planning should
allow for at least a two week period between initial
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clearance monitoring and reoccupancy to accom-
plish any necessary recleaning and retesting which
would provide a safer environment for building
users.
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CLEANING UP THE WORK AREA
Objective: Provide instruction on effective techniques for cleaning up the work
area, addressing initial gross clean-up through final wipedown.
Learning Tasks: Information in this section should enable participants to:
CCSf Become familiar with materials and equipment used to accom-
plish cleanup.
-------
residual material. A high-intensity flashlight will
prove helpful during this inspection. As the inspec-
tor and job supervisor walk through the area, the
inspection and recleaning process might be facili-
tated by recording on paper the items or areas
which need additional cleaning. The contractor's
representative is responsible for correcting any of
the deficiencies noted during the inspection before
beginning the next phase of work.
PERFORM FINAL WIPE DOWN OF EQUIPMENT/
REMOVE FROM WORK AREA
After the work crew has completed recleaning the
areas noted on the inspection list, the equipment
should be thoroughly cleaned (gross contamination
was removed earlier). Equipment should be wet
wiped, washed off in the shower at the waste load-
out area, wrapped in polyethylene, or placed in
plastic bags. Tools such as scrapers, utility knives,
and brushes can be placed in buckets or pans
(bottoms cut off of fiber board drums work well) and
then sealed in plastic bags for transport to the next
project. Brooms should be discarded or sealed in
plastic bags. Equipment which is not needed for
completion of the project should be removed from
the work area. The negative air filtration unit
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remains in place and operating for the remainder of
the cleanup operation until clearance samples are
collected.
APPLY SEALANT TO SUBSTRATE
The next phase of the project may include applying
a sealant to the substrate and remaining plastic to
"lock down" any tiny invisible fibrils which might
remain. Also, the mist which occurs during applica-
tion of the sealant adds in settling out and sticking
down fibers which are still airborne. This procedure
is addressed in detail in the section "Lockdown and
Sprayback."
WAIT OVERNIGHT/REMOVE POLYETHYLENE
FROM WALLS
An overnight waiting period (12-24 hours) should be
provided after the sealant and/or sprayback mate-
rial has been applied (or following recleaning after
the inspection if no sealant is applied). This period
allows the airborne materials to settle. The next
day the polyethylene draped over lighting fixtures
and covering the interior walls of the work area can
be misted and carefully taken down, folded inward
to form a bundle, and packaged for disposal. All
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coverings on doors, windows and vents remain in
place.
HEPA VACUUM
After the walls are uncovered, the hard-to-reach
places such as crevices around windows, doors,
shelves, etc., can be cleaned using a vacuum
equipped with a High Efficiency Particulate Air
(HEPA) filter. On some projects, contractors may
elect to vacuum all surface areas, beginning at the
top of the wall and working downward. The HEPA
filter retains the tiny fibers which could pass
through a standard vacuum cleaner. HEPA vacuums
are available with various cannister sizes and horse-
power motors. Some models have an available kit
for converting a dry vacuum to a wet pick-up
vacuum. Also models are available which use com-
pressed air rather than the standard direct current.
Twenty to thirty feet extension hoses are available
for the larger vacuums.
REMOVE POLYETHYLENE FLOOR COVERING/
REMOVE OR CLEAN CARPET
After vacuuming of these areas is completed, the
polyethylene floor covering is misted, each side is
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detached from the wall, and folded inward to form a
compact bundle for bagging and disposal. If a
carpet is in the work area and specified for removal
(removal instead of cleaning is the preferred prac-
tice), workers should lightly mist the entire carpet
before detaching it from the floor and rolling it up.
Once the carpet is rolled up, it can be wrapped with
6-mil poly, sealed with duct tape, and labeled for
disposal. A note of caution: In some locations,
carpet may be stuck to the floor with a glue which
does not readily separate from the flooring. As the
carpet is taken up, some portions of the backing
may tear away and remain stuck to the floor.
Several unplanned additional manhours may be
required to pry or scrape up the glue-carpet spots
which are left after the carpet is removed. Also,
tearing of the carpet material may elevate fiber
counts in air samples analyzed by phase contrast
microscopy.
HEPA VACUUM
After the floor area is uncovered, corners and
crevices can be cleaned with a HEPA vacuum.
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WET WIPE WALLS
Next, the walls are wet wiped and the floors are
mopped (or if the carpet is left in place, it should be
thoroughly vacuumed with a HEPA filtered unit).
Workers begin in the areas farthest away from the
negative air filtration units and use amended water
to wet wipe all exposed surfaces (excluding the
substrate from which the asbestos material was
removed). For best results, workers should use
cotton rags or lint free paper towels which are
disposed of after one use. Rinsing and reuse of
towels may result in smearing asbestos fibers on the
surfaces. Also, to avoid smearing of residual fibers,
workers should wipe in one direction only. Paper
towels should not be used to wipe down rough
surfaces and should be discarded before they begin
to deteriorate when used on smooth surfaces. Small
"fibrous looking" residue which may be deposited on
surfaces as a result of using deteriorated paper
towels could cause a problem during the final visual
inspection.
WET MOP FLOORS
After the walls are wet wiped, the floor is mopped
with a clean mop head wetted with amended water.
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The water should be changed frequently. Waste
water from the wet wiping and mopping operations
is treated as asbestos-containing water and dumped
in the shower drain or placed in a barrel for
disposal.
WAIT OVERNIGHT/REPEAT WET WIPE AND WET
MOP PROCEDURES
After the walls and other surfaces (shelves, ledges,
etc.) have been wet wiped and the floors have been
mopped, activity in the area is stopped until the
following day. The next day, the same wet wiping
and mopping procedures are repeated. If the carpet
is left on the floor, it is HEPA vacuumed again and
steam cleaned. As an alternative to using amended
water for the second wipe down, the cleaning effi-
ciency may be increased by using a commercial
TM TM
cleaning product such as Endust or Pledge
Windows can also be cleaned with a commercial
window cleaner.
VISUAL INSPECTION/RECLEAN IF NECESSARY
The work area should be dry before the final visual
inspection is conducted. The inspection is again
conducted by the owner's representative and the job
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supervisor. All surfaces are carefully checked for
visible contamination and any areas which need
further cleaning are listed on paper. Be sure that
ledges, tops of beams, and all hidden locations are
also inspected for asbestos-containing dust.
REIN5PECT/SHUT OFF NEGATIVE AIR
FILTRATION UNIT
After these designated areas have been recleaned,
the inspector and job supervisor make a final walk
through to assure the items listed have been
addressed. The negative air filtration units are shut
off and the area is now ready for final clearance air
monitoring.
FINAL CLEARANCE MONITORING
Clearance monitoring is adddressed in detail in the
section on "Air Sampling Requirements." When the
air sampling results indicate the airborne fiber con-
centration meets the criteria for clearance, the
polyethylene can be removed from the vents,
stationary objects such as water fountains, elec-
trical outlets, etc., and any barriers can be
removed. If the first set of air samples indicate
airborne fiber concentrations in the area are above
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the specified "clearance level", the area must be
recleaned followed again by clearance sampling.
This cycle is repeated until results of airborne fiber
concentrations indicate the clearance criteria have
been attained.
After the area has been cleared for reoccupancy by
unprotected personnel, remaining renovation can be
initiated (i.e., painting walls, installing suspended
ceiling, or laying carpet).
CLEANING UP THE DECONTAMINATION UNIT
The decontamination unit is lined with three layers
of polyethylene on the floor and one or two layers
on the walls (at a minimum, the walls of the
equipment room should be lined). The top layer of
floor poly in the equipment room should be removed
at the same time the top layer of floor poly in the
work area is cleaned or removed, using the same
procedures. This will minimize tracking contamina-
tion back into the work area. After cleanup is
completed inside the work area, the polyethylene on
the walls of the decontamination unit is misted and
folded inward. Next, the remaining layers on the
floor are removed in the same manner and packaged
with the other poly for disposal. The walls should be
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visually checked for contamination and wet wiped if
necessary. The decontamination unit can now be
disassembled for transport.
CLEANING UP THE ENCLOSED TRUCK
During the last disposal run to the landfill, after the
truck has been emptied of all waste materials, the
polyethylene lining the inside of the truck is misted
with amended water and carefully removed. Good
practice should include wet wiping the floor of the
truck at this time. The polyethylene removed from
the truck interior and the protective clothing worn
by workmen conducting disposal are bagged for
disposal and placed with the other materials at the
dump site.
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ARE
THERE TWO
LAYERS OF POLY
ON THE WALL?
NO
YES
REMOVE OUTER CONTAM-
INATED LAYER OF POLY
FROM THE WALL
CLEAN OFF CONTAM-
INATION WHICH LEAKED
TO INNER LAYER
REMOVE GROSS CONTAM-
INATION FROM POLY
ON THE WALL
REMOVE GROSS CONTAM-
INATION FROM EQUIP-
MENT IN WORK AREA
ARE
THERE TWO
LAYERS OF POLY
ON THE FLOOR?
NO
YES
REMOVE OUTER CONTAMI-
NATED LAYER OF POLY
FROM THE FLOOR
CLEAN OFF CONTAMI-
NATION WHICH LEAKED
TO INNER LAYER
REMOVE GROSS CONTAM-
INATION FROM POLY ON
THE FLOOR
CONDUCT VISUAL
INSPECTION
RECLEAN
DESIGNATED AREAS
YES
ARE
THERE AREAS
THAT NEED
CLEANING?
PERFORM FINAL CLEAN -UP
OF EQUIPMENT
REMOVE ALL EQUIPMENT
THAT IS NOT NEEDED
TO COMPLETE PROJECT
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IS
SEALANT
AND/OR
SPRAYBACK GOING
TO BE APPLIED
NO
YES
APPLY SEALANT/
SPRAYBACK MATERIAL
ALLOW OVERNIGHT
WAITING PERIOD
REMOVE POLY
FROM WALL
HEPA VACUUM CRACKS,
CREVICES, AND OTHER
SURFACE AREAS
REMOVE POLY
FROM FLOOR
IS
THERE CARPET
ON THE FLOOR
SPECIFIED FOR
REMOVAL?
NO
YES
REMOVE CARPED WRAP
IN POLY
WET WIPE WALLS
HEPA VACUUM CRACKS,
CREVICES, AND OTHER
SURFACE AREAS
HEPA VACUUM
CARPET, CORNERS
WET-WIPE WALLS
ALLOW OVERNIGHT
SETTLING PERIOD
WET-MOP FLOORS
©
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ALLOW OVERNIGHT
SETTLING PERIOD
WET-WIPE WALLS
WET-WIPE WALLS
HEPA VACUUM AND/OR
STEAM CLEAN CARPET
WET-MOP FLOORS
ALLOW OVERNIGHT
WAITING PERIOD
RECLEAN DESIGNATES
AREAS
PERFORM VISUAL
INSPECTION
YES
ARE
THERE AREAS
THAT NEED
RECLEANING?
SHUT DOWN NEGATIVE
AIR FILTRATION UNIT
RECLEAN WORK AREA
PERFORM AGGRESSIVE
SAMPLING
NO
DO
THE RESULTS
OF AIR SAMPLING
MEET SPECIFIED
CRITERIA?
YES
REMOVE REMAINING
POLYETHENE SEALS
ON VENTS, WINDOWS,
ETC.
REMOVE BARRIERS,
DECONTAMINATION UNIT
CLEAN-UP IS
COMPLETE
CONTINUE OTHER
RENOVATIONS
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WASTE DISPOSAL REQUIREMENTS
Objective: Provide an overview of correct methods and regulatory requirements
for disposal of asbestos-containing waste resulting from asbestos
abatement projects.
Learning Tasks: Information in this section should enable participants to:
CCSJF' Understand correct procedures regarding the disposal of
asbestos-containing waste.
CCS?3 Become familiar with procedures of notifying the appropriate
agencies.
CCST" Understand the appropriate labeling techniques, wet methods,
and packaging procedures.
CCS?3 Know requirements for effective transportation of asbestos-
containing waste and actual disposal at the landfill or disposal
site.
CCST7 Become familiar with appropriate OSHA and EPA regulations
regarding asbestos waste disposal.
fCST7 Understand recordkeeping requirements.
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PREPARATION OF ASBESTOS-CONTAINING
WASTE (BEFORE TRANSPORTATION TO THE
DISPOSAL SITE)
WETTING
Once the asbestos-containing waste material has
been removed from the areas of concern, there are
certain precautions that must be taken before dis-
posal operations begin. The first, and probably most
important, undertaking is to ensure that all of the
asbestos-containing waste has been thoroughly
treated with water, or "wetted." This may be
accomplished by having a water supply available in
any area that abatement work is taking place (i.e., a
hose). As the asbestos-containing material is being
removed, the material should be kept as damp as
possible via a low pressure water stream. By
ensuring this, the chances of airborne asbestos fiber
generation are significantly reduced. The waste
material will then be suitable for containerizing.
CONTAINERIZING
The safest and most effective way to ensure that
the asbestos-containing waste has been properly
packaged for transportation to the disposal site is to
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establish a standard procedure for bagging and hand-
ling the waste. The first step in this procedure
would be to select the appropriate disposal bags
(recommended: 6 mil polyethylene). These will be
air-tight and puncture resistant. Also, these bags
should be labeled with the OSHA required
statement:
CAUTION
Contains Asbestos
Avoid Opening or
Breaking Container
Breathing Asbestos is Hazardous
to Your Health
Once this preparation is completed, the next step is
to train the abatement workers in the proper tech-
niques for containerizing the waste materials.
Important concepts of this training should include:
a. Discussion of the importance of handling
asbestos-containing waste in a careful manner
to keep airborne fiber generation minimal.
b. Instruction on materials that should not be
included in the bags (i.e., metal, sharp objects),
and also that each bag should be considered
"full" when it is half filled (since material
saturated with water will be much heavier).
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c. Instruction on correct procedures for sealing
off waste-containing bags with duct tape.
Ensure that all excess air is squeezed out of
bags before they are sealed (to conserve space).
d. Discussion on the importance of ensuring that
the asbestos warning label on each bag is
legible, so that no bags will be disposed of
mistakenly.
Once the asbestos-containing waste is securely
enclosed inside the bag, the best recommended
practice is to hose the bag down, wet wipe, or HEPA
vacuum them clean. The bags should then be placed
in fiberboard drums with locking rims. These drums
should be labeled in the same manner as the bags.
The most efficient method is to place 4 or 5 bags in
each drum. Important concepts that should be
included when instructing workers in drum
utilization are:
a. Prior to the time drums are to be used, while
they are still in the waste load-out area, an
effective method of contamination control is to
line the outside of each drum with a plastic
(garbage) bag.
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b. This outside bag should be kept on the drum
while .it is being filled with the asbestos-
containing waste bags.
c. Once the drum is filled, the lid or rim should be
locked into place. The drum will then be ready
for transportation out of the work area.
d. Before leaving the work area (at the doorway to
the waste load-out area), the plastic bag on the
outside of the drum should be removed and
placed in the next drum to be filled with waste.
e. Before the drum enters the load out area, it
should be hosed down and/or wet wiped to
ensure that there is no residual contamination
present on the outside of the drum.
f. Immediately after this bag transfer is accom-
plished, the sealed drum should be moved into
the waste load-out area, and subsequently into
the enclosed truck.
(Note: Drums may not be used in some states for
asbestos removal since many of their landfills will
not accept them.)
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For a sketch of a typical waste load-out area, see
Figure 1.
WASTE LOAD-OUT PROCEDURE
The most effective method to use in a waste load-
out procedure is to utilize two teams of workers; an
inside team and an outside team. The inside team,
wearing appropriate respirators and protective
clothing, will be responsible for ensuring that the
drums are properly packed, lids locked into place,
and plastic bags removed from the outside of each
drum before it is sent through the waste load-out
area and into the enclosed truck. (The plastic bags
should then be placed in the next drum to be
disposed of.) It is important that no workers from
the inside team exit the work area through the
airlock.
In cases where the drums are not being covered with
plastic bags, it becomes necessary for the inside
team to assure that each drum exiting the work area
be free of any dust. This may be accomplished by
inspecting and wet-wiping every drum leaving the
area.
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The outside team (in the waste load-out area),
wearing dual-cartridge respirators and appropriate
protective clothing, will post themselves at the
entrance to the work area. The inside team will
then pass the drums into the load-out area. From
here, the outside team will load them into the
enclosed truck. The entrance into the waste load-
out area from the work area should then be secured
to prevent any unauthorized entry or exit.
The outside team will bring the drums into the
airlock and up the ramp so the drums can be safely
stored in the enclosed truck. Drums should be
placed on level surfaces in the cargo area and
packed tightly together to prevent shifting and
tipping. Under no circumstances should containers
ever be thrown into the cargo area. Also, when
moving the containers, hand trucks, dollies, or pull
carts should be utilized. In addition to this, it is
important to instruct workers in proper lifting tech-
niques in order to avoid back injuries. Where ramps
are not possible, trucks with lift gates would be
helpful for raising drums during loading.
To assure that the truck is properly enclosed, the
inside or "bed" area should be lined with 2 layers of
6 mil polyethylene. First, the floor should be
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completely covered with a six-inch overlap of each
piece. The same method should also be used when
lining the sides and top of the cargo area also. Duct
tape should be used to properly secure the sheets of
polyethylene. This will not only ensure additional
enclosure of the asbestos-containing waste, but it
will also provide for easier clean-up operations. It
should be noted here that any debris or residue
observed on containers or surfaces outside of the
work area resulting from disposal activities should
be immediately cleaned by using HEPA filtered
vacuum equipment and/or wet wiping, as
appropriate.
OTHER FORMS OF ASBESTOS-CONTAINING
WASTE
In any asbestos abatement project, not all of the
waste material that needs to be disposed of will be
loose or broken apart. There are many cases in
which it will be necessary to dispose of materials
such as asbestos-containing floor, wall, or ceiling
tiles, shingles, rugs, etc. The rule of thumb to
follow in these instances is simply good common
sense. This may include neatly banding together
tiles or shingles with care not to expose sharp edges
or any other protruding objects that could possibly
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puncture the polyethylene enclosure. Once the
materials are banded together, each bundle should
be wrapped in 2 layers of 6 mil polyethylene. When
this is complete, the bundles should be neatly
stacked in the cargo area of the truck. Care should
be used so that tipping or shifting of the load is
prevented.
TRANSPORTATION TO THE ASBESTOS-
CONTAINING WASTE DISPOSAL SITE
As work progresses, and to prevent exceeding avail-
able storage capacity on-site, sealed and labeled
containers of asbestos-containing waste should be
removed and transported to the pre-arranged dis-
posal location. Regulations may vary from state to
state, but there are standard procedures that must
be followed in any operation involving asbestos
waste disposal. Disposal must occur at an author-
ized site in accordance with regulatory require-
ments of NESHAP (National Emission Standard for
Hazardous Air Pollutants) and applicable local
guidelines. It is best to check with state officials on
these requirements.
When transporting asbestos-containing waste to any
disposal location, it is important that the drivers of
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the vehicles be properly trained in correct waste
handling procedures. It is important that they not
use excessive speeds or unusually rough roads to
avoid load slippage or tipping. It will also be the
responsibility of the drivers to retain all dump
receipts, trip tickets, transportation manifests, or
other documentation of disposal. These should then
be given to the building owner for his/her records.
DISPOSAL AT THE LANDFILL
Once the asbestos-containing waste truck arrives at
the landfill, the driver should approach the disposal
location as closely as possible for unloading of the
waste materials. Bags should then be taken out of
the drums along with the other waste components.
They should be inspected as they are off-loaded. In
the event a bag has been damaged, the material
should be repacked in another bag as appropriate.
There may be some instances in which the drums
can be buried at the landfill; however, it is usually
more economical to reuse the drums.
Waste bags should be placed on the ground at the
disposal site, not pushed or dropped out of the
trucks, as the weight of the wetted material could
rupture the containers. Personnel off-loading the
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containers should wear proper protective equipment
which includes disposable head, body, and foot pro-
tection. Also, minimum respiratory protection
requirements should include the use of half-face,
air-purifying, dual-cartridge respirators equipped
with high-efficiency filters.
Upon complete removal of all containerized waste,
the truck cargo area should be decontaminated using
HEPA vacuums and/or wet wiping methods to com-
ply with the O5HA "no visible residue" and EPA "no
visible emission" criteria. The polyethylene sheet-
ing should be removed and discarded along with
contaminated cleaning materials and disposable pro-
tective clothing in other bags and/or drums at the
disposal site. The landfill personnel should have
their own personal protective equipment; however,
if this is not the case, the contractor should supply
them with protective clothing and respiratory pro-
tection.
The bags or drums should be placed intact in a
excavated area and covered with a minimum of six
inches of earth at the end of each working day.
These areas must be clearly marked to prevent
future disturbance of the waste.
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The EPA Regional Asbestos Coordinator in the area
that the asbestos abatement work is taking place
(see Figure 2) can usually provide a list of approved
sites for disposal of asbestos-containing waste.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS FOR ASBESTOS-
CONTAINING WASTE DISPOSAL
An aspect that must not be overlooked when devis-
ing an asbestos-containing waste disposal strategy is
that of filtering the run-off from showers in the
worker decontamination area. It is now generally
accepted that filtration of asbestos-contaminated
water through a five micron filter is the state of the
art for asbestos removal from water. Discharge of
the filtered water should be to a sanitary sewer
system, or in its absence, to a septic tank and field
system with adequate capacity.
If there is any uncertainty regarding water regula-
tions in a particular area, the best course of action
to follow would be to contact the state department
of environmental management.
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REGIONAL ASBESTOS COORDINATORS
Mr. Paul Heffernan
EPA, Region I
Asbestos Coordinator
Air & Hazardous Materials Div.
JFK Federal Bldg.
Boston, MA 02202
(617) 223-0585
Mr. Arnold Freiberger
EPA, Region II
Asbestos Coordinator
Woodbridge Ave.
Edison, NJ 08837
(201)321-6668
Ms. Pauline Levin
EPA, Region III (3SA-00)
Asbestos Coordinator
Curtis Building
6th and Walnut Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215)597-9859
Mr. Jim Littell
EPA, Region IV
Asbestos Coordinator
345 Courtland Street
Atlanta, GA 30365
(404)881-3864
Dr. Tony Restaino
EPA, Region V
230 S. Dearborn Street
Chicago, IL 60604
(312)886-6879
Mr. John West
EPA, Region VI
Asbestos Coordinator
First Internat'l Bldg.
1201 Elm Street
Dallas, TX 75270
(214)767-2734
Mr. Wolfgang Brandner
EPA, Region VII
Asbestos Coordinator
726 Minnesota Ave.
Kansas City, KA 66101
(913)236-2835
Mr. Steve Farrow
EPA, Region VIII
Asbestos Coordinator
1860 Lincoln Street
Denver, CO 80295
(303)293-1730
Ms. Jo Ann Semones
EPA, Region IX
Asbestos Coordinator
215 Fremont Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
(415)974-8137
Mr. Walter Jasper
EPA, Region X
Asbestos Coordinator
1200 Sixth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98101
(206) 442-2632
Figure 2
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POST REMOVAL LOCKDOWN AND
SPRAYBACK PROCEDURES
Objective: Discuss various methods and decision criteria used in lockdown and
sprayback operations.
Learning Tasks: Information in this section should enable participants to:
CCSP Become familiar with the terms "lockdown" and "sprayback."
Understand procedures for spraying back, or replacing asbestos-
containing materials with asbestos-free substitutes.
Become familiar with the criteria used in selecting which types
of materials should be used as lockdown and asbestos-free
substitutes (sprayback).
Understand various factors that may influence the use of an
asbestos-free sprayback material.
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DEFINITIONS
1) Lockdown
Lockdown is the procedure of applying a pro-
tective coating or sealant to a surface from
which asbestos-containing material has been
removed. Its primary function is to control and
minimize the amount of airborne asbestos fiber
generation that might result from any residual
asbestos-containing debris on the substrate.
Though the substrate may appear to be clean,
miniscule fibers may have become lodged in
cracks or crevices that were inaccessible.
2) Sprayback
Sprayback is the process of replacing the
asbestos-containing material that was originally
removed with an effective substitute. This
material should have architectural properties
and capabilities adequate to meet specifica-
tions and requirements originally set for the
space (i.e., acoustical insulation, fireproofing).
Caution should be used when choosing a spray-
back material to ensure that other adverse
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problems will not result (i.e., potentially harm-
ful vapors generated during application).
3) Substrate
The surface from which the asbestos was origi-
nally removed; the subsurface.
LOCKDOWN
Every asbestos removal project ultimately involves
the stripping away of some asbestos-containing
material from a permanent substrate or subsurface.
Dependent upon the surface structure of this sub-
strate, or the cohesive strength of the asbestos-
containing material to the substrate, there will
always be some residual fibers left behind after
gross removal has taken place.
Some of the most common materials found as sub-
strates in buildings include cement, corrugated
sheet metal, wire mesh, metal piping, plaster, and
wood. These materials each have different charac-
teristics pertaining to surface structure and cohe-
sive strength. For example, cement substrates are
often porous and pitted (many small grooves on the
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surface). This type of surface is extremely difficult
to clean for two reasons. First, the pits in the
surface may have become filled with asbestos-
containing material when it was originally sprayed
or troweled on the surface and then not removed by
wet and scrape methods. Secondly, when the
material is scraped away during removal, asbestos-
containing materials will be packed tightly into
these grooves or pits. Most of the material can then
be removed through tedious brushing; however, some
fibers will remain. For this reason, it is necessary
to develop and follow a lockdown strategy which
will effectively control the future release of air-
borne fibers from porous or non-porous surfaces
from which removal has already taken place.
VARIOUS LOCKDOWN METHODS
It is required that all asbestos removal projects be
performed using wet methods (see Confining and
Minimizing). In certain instances (i.e. high amosite
content), it may be necessary to perform dry
removal since the material will not absorb water
very well. In cases such as this, specific approval
must be obtained from EPA. "Wet methods" involve
wetting the material to be removed via a low
pressure amended water spray. This will keep the
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amount of airborne fiber generation minimal, and it
will also facilitate removal of the asbestos-
containing material since it will be more pliable.
The recommended method for brushing or cleansing
a substrate after gross removal has taken place is to
use a nylon brush. This will aid in getting to fibers
that may have become lodged in grooves or crevices
in the substrate surface. Wetting of the substrate
should also take place while this brushing is being
performed since the chance of airborne fiber gener-
ation is still present. Use of a wire brush would
cause a mechanical break down of larger asbestos
fibers or fiber bundles into fibrils of minute size
which are easily dispersed throughout the surround-
ing air (heavy dispersion can make final cleaning
very difficult). In either case, wire or nylon brush-
ing will generate airborne fibers to some degree.
Once this brushing is completed, a final wipedown of
the substrate with wet, lint-free rags should take
place in order to ensure that all loose fibers are
eliminated. It may be necessary to wipe the surface
with a lint-free rag and dusting agent once it has
dried.
After the substrate has completely dried and passed
a thorough inspection for visible residual contamina-
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tion, application of the lockdown material can
begin.
The polyethylene barriers should be cleaned of gross
contamination before applying the sealant to the
substrate. It may be more time efficient to place a
double layer of polyethylene on the walls and floors
during preparation so that one layer can be removed
before lockdown begins. Workers performing lock-
down should wear disposable protective clothing and
respirators suitable for asbestos and/or organic
vapors (if applicable) because the area is still con-
taminated. (Note: Organic vapor respirators may
be needed if the lockdown material is volatile in
liquid form when being applied.)
There are a variety of products that can be used for
locking down the substrate. These products can
usually be applied as sprayed-on liquid type sealants
(alternatives for certain situations are latex paint,
encapsulating solutions, and concrete sealant). This
lockdown material should be applied using a low
pressure or airless spray-type mechanism. It is
important that the lockdown material be compatible
with the substrate. Thus, it is important to ensure
that cohesion occurs between the two surfaces (sub-
strate and lockdown material), and in some cases,
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three surfaces (substrate, lockdown, and sprayback).
For example, latex paint would work well in locking
down a cemented surface, whereas it would not be
acceptable for use on metal piping since it will peel
and crack. Caution should also be used so that the
lockdown material does not present a new hazard
during application and anticipated use/conditions.
Contractors should obtain all available information
on the substance (i.e., toxicity, volatility, fire
ratings, and acoustics). Material Safety Data Sheets
are one good source of information on a potential
product. They should be available from both the
manufacturer and distributor of the material. It
may be necessary to request additional data on the
fire ratings and acoustics of the material. All
information should be obtained and considered prior
to beginning the project.
A good, recommended practice is to use color
tinting when applying lockdown materials. This will
make it easier to visually check that all areas of the
substrate have been covered with the lockdown
substance. One coat of lockdown substance will
usually be adequate to prevent the generation of
airborne residual fibers. In some cases, additional
coats may be needed for cosmetic purposes. Also, if
the lockdown material is being applied to irregular,
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grooved, or corrugated surfaces, it should be admin-
istered from the opposing side, or at a right angle to
the direction of previous application.
SPRAYBACK
Once the lockdown sealant has been applied, the
next step is often to reapply an adequate substitute
for the asbestos-containing material that was origi-
nally present. In most cases, the original asbestos-
containing material was probably used as fireproof-
ing, thermal insulation, condensation control, or
acoustical insulation. Therefore, it is imperative
that the substitute material (sprayback) be capable
of the same functions and have similar functional
properties relative to the original asbestos-
containing material. This material should also be
chosen during the planning stage of the project.
Additionally, it is important that the sprayback not
introduce another potential health hazard itself.
Any material chosen must be thoroughly investi-
gated. Once a substitute is selected, a trial applica-
tion should be conducted on a small sample area of
the substrate to determine whether or not it will be
adequate.
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The architect or engineer, as a member of the
project team, should have the capacity to investi-
gate and recommend various types of sprayback
materials. This person will be most familiar with
the chemical and physical properties of the various
substances available. The architect or engineer will
also be familiar with the building structure; specif-
ically, the acoustics and fire ratings. Additionally,
the industrial hygienist, who is also a member of the
project team, will be able to evaluate the sprayback
material for potential health hazards such as
toxicity. Working in conjunction with one another,
these two members of the project team should be
able to decide on an adequate sprayback material
while the job specifications are being drawn up.
In many instances, the non-asbestos-containing sub-
stitute will be applied as a sprayed-on coating.
There are several types available, depending on
what the specific purpose will be. Exfoliated
vermiculite and perlite, a volcanic rock, are two
common substitutes for asbestos. Other materials
frequently used as substitutes for a variety of
situations include mineral wool, treated cellulose,
and fibrous glass. Depending on the situation, cork,
and asbestos-free fiber reinforced cement board
may also be used as a substitute material.
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SUMMARY
In almost every case that requires asbestos removal
from a building, locking down the residual material
to the substrate and choosing an effective sprayback
will be integral aspects in the successful completion
of the project. The most important concepts
involved in these types of operations are to:
1) Ensure that the lockdown is compatible
(cohesive) with the substrate; and that the
sprayback material is compatible (cohesive)
with the lockdown substance.
2) Ensure that the lockdown and sprayback mate-
rials do not present a new health hazard.
3) Ensure that the sprayback has similar desirable
properties and capabilities relative to the orig-
inal asbestos-containing material.
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GLOVEBAG TECHNIQUE FOR PIPE LAGGING REMOVAL
Objective: Become familiar with the procedures used and materials necessary
for the glovebag technique.
Learning Tasks: Information in this section should enable participants to:
fCSf Understand the concept of localized glovebag removal.
Become familiar with the necessary materials to perform the
job.
Recognize the importance of proper pipe lagging preparation.
Understand the basic procedures and sequence for glovebag
operations.
Be aware of necessary precautions, work practices and personal
protective equipment.
Perform proper clean-up and disposal of asbestos-containing
waste generated by this technique.
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OVERVIEW OF THE GLOVEBAG PROCEDURE
The glovebag consists of a 6-12 mil bag fitted with
long sleeve gloves, a tool pouch and a two-inch
opening used for water application. Although glove-
bags can be fabricated by the user for each project,
most contractors prefer to purchase ready-made
bags. The size, quality, style and cost vary depend-
ing on the manufacturer. The cost per glovebag is
in a range of $10-40 apiece. In addition to the
glovebag, several other tools and materials are
commonly required to perform the project success-
fully. These materials, listed below, are readily
available from most asbestos abatement contractor
suppliers.
MATERIALS
1. Glovebag (one or more depending on project
size)
2. Pump-up garden sprayer (2-3 gallon size)
3. Amended water (surfactant)
4. Duct tape (3-inch width)
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5. Polyethylene disposal bags (6 mil)
6. Smoke tubes with aspirator bulb
7. HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner
8. Bone saw
9. Utility knife with retractable blade
10. Wire cutters
11. Tin snips (if aluminum jacket is present)
12. Polyethylene plastic (roll of 4 or 6 mil)
13. Dual cartridge respirators with high efficiency
partridges
14. Disposable full-body suits with hood and feet
covering
15. Small scrub brush
16. Stapler
17. Several rags
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18. Wettable cloth
19. Asbestos caution signs and labels
20. Reinsulation materials as necessary
BEFORE STARTING THE PROJECT
Two persons are required to perform the glovebag
removal project. A third person is often available,
however, to assist with supplies, keep unwanted
visitors out of the area, and to conduct the air
monitoring. Each of these team members should
have received training on the use and limitations of
glovebag removal projects. They should also be
included in the respiratory protection program and
medical surveillance program.
Before any work begins, all necessary materials and
supplies should be brought into the work area. This
work area should be roped off and warning signs
posted on the perimeter to minimize the chance of
visitors entering this area. Barrier tape (3-inch)
with a preprinted asbestos warning works well for
this purpose. The HVAC serving the work area
should be shut down, if possible. Employees should
be trained in emergency procedures should the
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glovebag rupture. This usually includes wet cleaning
and/or HEPA vacuuming procedures and a shower
available at a remote location. With this phase
completed, the following generic guidelines may be
used for most pipe lagging projects. REMEMBER!
NEVER PERFORM GLOVEBAG REMOVAL ON HOT
PIPES (OVER 15QOF.) This may cause the bag or
gloves to melt over the workers' hands and arms.
REMOVAL PROCEDURES
1. Following the manufacturer's directions, mix
the surfactant with water in the garden
sprayer.
2. Have each employee put on a cartridge respi-
rator and check the face-fit.
3. Have each employee put on a disposable full-
body suit. Remember, the hood goes over the
respirator straps.
4. Check the pipe where the work will be
performed. If it is damaged (broken lagging,
hanging, etc.), wrap the entire length of the
pipe in polyethylene plastic and "candystripe" it
with duct tape. A common error when doing
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glovebag work is forgetting that loose pipe
lagging several feet or even several yards away
from the glovebag work may be jarred loose by
the activity. This is one of the common causes
of high airborne fiber concentrations during
glovebag work. The other problem is failure to
clean up debris on the floor and other surfaces
which has accumulated and contains asbestos.
If the pipe is undamaged it is still necessary to
place one layer of duct tape around the pipe at
each location where the glovebag will be
attached. This serves two purposes. First, it
gives a good surface on which to seal the ends
of the glovebag. Second, it minimizes the
chance of releasing fibers when the tape at the
ends of the glovebag is peeled off at the
completion of the job.
5. Slit the top of the glovebag open (if necessary)
and cut down the sides to accommodate the
size of the pipe (about two inches longer than
the pipe diameter). One brand has a zipper top
and straps at each end facilitating installation
of the bag on the pipe.
6. Place the necessary tools into the pouch
located inside the glovebag. This will usually
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include the bone saw, utility knife, rags, scrub
brush, wire cutters, tin snips and wettable
cloth. Note: It is easiest to pre-cut the
wettable cloth at this point. Cut out a donut
shape with the inner diameter 1/2-inch smaller
than the diameter of the pipe beneath the
insulation. The outer diameter of the donut
should be three inches longer than the diameter
of the pipe insulation being removed. Finally,
cut a slit in each of the two donuts so they can
be slipped around the pipe.
7. Place one strip of duct tape along the edge of
the open top slit of the glovebag for reinforce-
ment.
8. Place the glovebag around the section of pipe
to be worked on and staple the top together
through the reinforcing duct tape. Staple at
intervals of approximately one inch. Next, fold
the stapled top flap back and tape it down with
a strip of duct tape. This should provide an
adequate seal along the top. Next, duct tape
the ends of the glovebag to the pipe itself,
previously covered with plastic or duct tape
(see step 4).
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9. Using the smoke tube and aspirator bulb, place
the tube into the water sleeve (two-inch open-
ing to glovebag). By squeezing the bulb, fill the
bag with visible smoke. Remove the smoke
tube and twist the water sleeve closed. While
holding the water sleeve tightly, gently squeeze
the glovebag and look for smoke leaking out,
especially at the top and ends of the glovebag.
If leaks are found, they should be taped closed
using duct tape and the bag should be re-tested
with smoke.
10. Insert the wand from the water sprayer through
the water sleeve. Using duct tape, tape the
water sleeve tightly around the wand to prevent
air leakage.
11. One person places his hands into the long-
sleeved gloves while the second person directs
the water spray at the work.
12. If the section of pipe is covered with an alumi-
num jacket, this is removed first using the wire
cutters to cut any bands and the tin snips to
remove the aluminum. It is important to fold
the sharp edges in to prevent cutting the bag
when it is placed in the bottom. Use caution to
prevent cuts - these edges are sharp!
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13. With the insulation exposed, use the bone saw
to cut the insulation at each end of the section
to be removed inside the glovebag. Note: A
bone saw is a serrated heavy-gauge wire with
ring-type handles at each end. Throughout this
process, water is sprayed on the cutting area to
keep dust to a minimum.
14. Once the ends are cut, the section of insulation
should be slit from end to end using the utility
knife. The cut should be made along the
bottom of the pipe and water continuously
supplied. Again, care should be taken when
using the knife not to puncture the bag. Some
insulation may have wire to be clipped as well.
15. Spray all tools with water inside the bag and
place back into pouch.
16. The insulation can now be lifted off the pipe
and gently placed in the bottom of the bag.
17. Using the scrub brush, rags and water, scrub
and wipe down the exposed pipe inside the
glovebag. Note: The inexpensive horse rub-
down mittens work well for this.
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18. Wet the donut-shaped pieces of wettable cloth
over the exposed ends of insulation remaining
on the pipe. Wettable cloth is a plaster impreg-
nated fiberglass webbing available at many
hardware and/or plumbing supply stores.
19. Remove the water wand from the water sleeve
and attach the small nozzle from the HEPA-
filtered vacuum. Turn on the vacuum only
briefly to collapse the bag.
20. Remove the vacuum nozzle and twist the water
sleeve closed and seal with duct tape.
21. From outside the bag, pull the tool pouch away
from the bag and twist it to separate it from
the bag. Place duct tape over the twisted
portion and then cut the tool bag from the
glovebag, cutting through the twisted/taped
section. In this manner, the contaminated tools
may be placed directly into the next glovebag
without cleaning. Alternatively, the tool pouch
with the tools can be placed in a bucket of
water, opened underwater, and the tools
cleaned and dried without releasing asbestos
into the air. Note: Rags and the scrub brush
cannot be cleaned in this manner and should be
-385-
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discarded with the asbestos waste. If more
than one adjacent section of pipe is to be
removed, the glovebag may be loosened at each
end and slid along the pipe to the next section.
In this case, the tools would remain in the bag
for continued use.
22. With the removed insulation in the bottom of
the bag, twist the bag several times and tape it
to keep the material in the bottom during
removal of the glovebag from the pipe.
23. Slip a 6 mil disposal bag over the glovebag (still
attached to the pipe). Remove the tape and
open the top of the glovebag and fold it down
into the disposal bag.
24. Remove the disposable suits and place these
into the bag with the waste.
25. Twist the top of the bag closed, fold this over,
and seal with duct tape. Label the bag with a
warning label.
26. Using a clean damp rag, wipe the exterior of
the respirator and leave the work area.
Remove the respirator.
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27. Asbestos-containing material must be disposed
of at an approved landfill in accordance with
EPA regulations.
28. Air sampling should be conducted during and
after completion of glovebag projects to deter-
mine if undetected leakage occurred. Sampling
should be done by qualified persons with imme-
diate analyses provided. Once the area has met
the criteria for re-entry by unprotected person-
nel, the barriers may be removed and reinsula-
tion completed. For further information con-
cerning sampling procedures and clearance
criteria, see the section entitled, "Air Sampling
Requirements."
-387-
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NEW DEVELOPMENTS
Objective: Material in this section should reflect new developments in asbestos
abatement procedures.
Learning Tasks: Information in this section should enable participants to:
CCSf ^ema'n current on changing regulations which affect asbestos
abatement procedures.
CCST" Keep up-to-date on changes in asbestos abatement technology.
Be aware of specific requirements for the local area, state, or
region in which this course is taught as they pertain to asbestos.
-388-
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APPENDIX A
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION
Title 29 CFR Part 1910.1001
ASBESTOS
(OSHA Standard)
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OSHA
1910.1001 -ASBESTOS
(a) Definitions
For the purpose of this section.
(I) "Asbestos" includes chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, tremolite,
anthophyllite, and actinolite.
(2) "Asbestos fibers" means asbestos fibers longer than 5 micrometers.
(b) PERMISSIBLE EXPOSURE TO AIRBORNE CONCENTRATIONS OF ASBESTOS
FIBERS
(I) Standard effective July 7, 1972. The 8-hour, time-weighted average
airborne concentrations of asbestos fibers to which any employee may be
exposed shall not exceed five fibers, longer than 5 micrometers, per cubic
centimeter of air, as determined by the method prescribed in paragraph
(e) of this section.
(2) Standard effective July I, 1976. The 8-hour, time-weighted average
airborne concentrations of asbestos fibers to which any employee may be
exposed shall not exceed two fibers, longer than 5 micrometers, per cubic
centimeter of air, as determined by the method prescribed in paragraph
(e) of this section.
(3) Ceiling concentration. No employee shall be exposed at any time to
airborne concentration of asbestos fibers in excess of 10 fibers, longer
than 5 micrometers, per cubic centimer of air, as determined by the
method prescribed in paragraph (e) of this section.
(c) METHODS OF COMPLIANCE
(I) ENGINEERING METHODS
(I) Engineering controls. Engineering controls, such as but not limited
to, isolation, enclosure, exhaust ventilation, and dust collection,
shall be used to meet the exposure limits prescribed in paragraph (b)
of this section.
(ii) LOCAL EXHAUST VENTILATION
(a) Local exhaust ventilation and dust collection systems shall be
designed, constructed, installed, and maintained in accordance
with the American National Standard Fundamentals Governing
the Design and Operation of Local Exhaust Systems, ANSI Z9.2-
1971, which is incorporated by reference herein.
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(b) See Section 1910.6 concerning the availability of ANSI-A9.2-
1971, and the maintenance of a historic file in connection
therewith. The address of the American National Standards
Institute is given in Section 1910.100.
(iii) PARTICULAR TOOLS
All hand-operated and power-operated tools which may produce or
release asbestos fibers in excess of the exposure limits prescribed in
paragraph (b) of this section, such as, but not limited to, saws,
scorers, abrasive wheels, and drills, shall be provided with local
exhaust ventilation systems in accordance with subdivision (ii) of
this subparagraph.
(2) WORK PRACTICES
(i) Wet methods. Insofar as practicable, asbestos shall be handled,
mixed, applied, removed, cut, scored, or otherwise worked in a wet
state sufficient to prevent the emission of airborne fibers in excess
of the exposure limits prescribed in paragraph (b) of this section,
unless the usefulness of the product would be diminished thereby.
(ii) Particular products and operations. No asbestos cement, mortar,
coating, grout, plaster, or similar material containing asbestos shall
be removed from bags, cartons, or other containers in which they
are shipped, without being either wetted, or enclosed, or ventilated
so as to prevent effectively the release of airborne asbestos fibers in
excess of the limits prescribed in paragraph (b) of this section.
(iii) Spraying, demolition, or removal. Employees engaged in the
spraying of asbestos, the removal, or demolition of pipes, structures,
or equipment covered or insulated with asbestos, and in the removal
or demolition of asbestos insulation or coverings shall be provided
with respiratory equipment in accordance with paragraph (d) (2) (iii)
of this section and wuh special clothing in accordance with
paragraph (d) (3) of this section.
(d) PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
(I) Compliance with the exposure limits prescribed by paragraph (b) of this
section may not be achieved by the use of respirators or shift rotation of
employees, except:
(i) During the time period necessary to install the engineering controls
and to institute the work practices required by paragraph (c) of this
section;
(ii) In work situations in which the methods prescribed in paragraph (c)
of this section are either technically not feasible or feasible to an
extent insufficient to reduce the airborne concentrations of asbestos
fibers below the limits prescribed by paragraph (b) of this section; or
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(Mi) In emergencies.
(iv) Where both respirators and personnel rotation are allowed by
subdivision (i) and (ii), or (Hi) of this subparagraph, and both are
practicable, personnel rotation shall be preferred and used.
(2) Where a respirator is permitted by subparagraph (I) of this paragraph, it
shall be selected from among those approved by the Bureau of Mines,
Department of the Interior, or the National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health Department, of Health, Education, and Welfare, under
the provisions of 30 CFR Part 11 (37 P.R. 6244, March 25, 1972), and shall
be used in accordance with subdivisions (i), (ii), (Hi), and (iv) of this
subparagraph.
(i) Air purifying respirators. A reusable or single use air purifying
respirator, or a respirator described in subdivision (ii) or (iii) of this
subparagraph, shall be used to reduce the concentrations of airborne
asbestos fibers in the respirator below the exposure limits prescribed
in paragraph (b) of this section, when the ceiling or the 8-hour, time-
weighted average airborne concentrations of asbestos fibers are
reasonably expected to exceed no more than 10 times those limits.
(ii) Powered air purifying respirators. A full facepiece powered air
purifying respirator, or a powered air purifying respirator, or a
respirator described in subdivision (iii) of this subparagraph, shall be
used to reduce the concentrations of airborne asbestos fibers in the
respirator below the exposure limits prescribed in paragraph (b) of
this section, when the ceiling or the 8-hour, time-weighted average
concentrations of asbestos fibers are reasonably expected to exceed
10 times, but not 100 times, those limits.
(iii) Type "C" supplied-air respirators, continuous flow or pressure-
demand class. A type "C" continuous flow or pressure-demand,
supplied air respirator shall be used to reduce the concentrations of
airborne asbestos fibers In the respirator below the exposure limits
prescribed in paragraph (b) of this section, when the ceiling or the 8-
hour, time-weighted average airborne concentrations of asbestos
fibers are reasonably expected to exceed 100 times those limits.
(iv) ESTABLISHMENT OF A RESPIRATOR PROGRAM
(a) The employer shall establish a respirator program in accordance
with the requirements of the American National Standard
Practices for respiratory Protection, ANSI Z88.2-I969, which is
incorporated by reference herein.
(b) See Section 1910.6 concerning the availability of ANSI Z88.2-
1969 and the maintenance of an historic file in connection
therewith. The address of the American National Standards
Institute is given in Section 1910.100.
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(c) No employee shall be assigned to tasks requiring the use of
respirators if, based upon his most recent examination, an
examining physician determines that the employee will be
unable to function normally wearing a respirator, or that the
safety or health of the employee or other employees will be
impaired by his use of the respirator. Such employee shall be
rotated to another job or given the opportunity to transfer to a
different position whose duties he is able to perform with the
same employer, in the same geographical area and with the
same seniority, status, and rate of pay he had just prior to such
transfer, if such a different position is available.
(3) Special Clothing: The employer shall provide, and require the use of,
special clothing, such as coveralls or similar whole body clothing, head
coverings, gloves, and foot coverings for any employee exposed to
airborne concentrations of asbestos fibers, which exceed the ceiling level
prescribed in paragraph (b) of this section.
(4) Change rooms:
(i) At any fixed place of employment exposed to airborne
concentrations of asbestos fibers in excess of the exposure limits
prescribed in paragraph (b) of this section, the employer shall
provide change rooms for employees working regularly at the place.
(ii) Clothes lockers: The employer shall provide two separate lockers or
containers for each employee, so separated or isolated as to prevent
contamination of the employee's street clothes from his work
clothes.
(iii) Laundering:
(a) Laundering of asbestos-contaminated clothing shall be done so
as to prevent the release of airborne asbestos fibers in excess of
the exposure limits prescribed in paragraph (b) of this section.
(b) Any employer who gives asbestos-contaminated clothing to
another person for laundering shall inform such person of the
requirement !n (a) of this subdivision to effectively prevent the
release of airborne asbestos fibers in excess of the exposure
limits prescribed in paragraph (b) of this section.
(c) Contaminated clothing shall be transported in sealed
impermeable bags, or other closed, impermeable bags, or other
closed, impermeable containers, and labeled in accordance with
paragraph (g) of this section.
(e) METHOD OF MEASUREMENT
All determinations of airborne concentrations of asbestos fibers shall be made
by the membrane filter method at 400-450 x (magnification) (4 millimeter
objective) with phase contrast illumination.
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(f) MONITORING
(I) Initial determinations. Within 6 months of the publication of this section,
every employer shall cause every place of employment where asbestos
fibers are released to be monitoried in such a way as to determine
whether every employee's exposure to asbestos fibers is below the limits
prescribed in paragraph (b) of this section. If the limits are exceeded, the
employer shall immediately undertake a compliance program in
accordance with paragraph (c) of this section.
(2) Personal Monitoring
(i) Samples shall be collected from within the breathing zone of the
employees, on membrane filters of 0.8 micrometer porosity mounted
in an open-face filter holder. Samples shall be taken for the
determination of the 8-hour, time-weighted average airborne
concentrations and of the ceiling concentrations of asbestos fibers.
(ii) Sampling frequency and patterns. After the initial determinations
required by subparagraph (I) of this paragraph, samples shall be of
such frequency and pattern as to represent with reasonable accuracy
the levels of exposure of employees. In no case shall the sampling
be done at intervals greater than 6 months for employees whose
exposure to asbestos may reasonably be foreseen to exceed the
limits prescribed by paragraph (b) of this section.
(3) Environmental monitoring
(i) Samples shall be collected from areas of a work environment which
are representative of the airborne concentrations of asbestos fibers
which may reach the breathing zone of employees. Samples shall be
collected on a membrane filter of 0.8 micrometer porosity mounted
in an open-face filter holder. Samples shall be taken for the
determination of the 8-hour, time-weighted average airborne
concentrations and of the ceiling concentrations of asbestos fibers.
(ii) Sampling frequency and patterns. After the initial determinations
required by subparagraph (I) of this paragraph, samples shall be of
such frequency and pattern as to represent with reasonable accuracy
the levels of exposure of the employees. In no case shall sampling
be at intervals greater than 6 months for employees whose exposures
to asbestos may reasonably be foreseen to exceed the exposure
limits prescribed in paragraph (b) of this section.
(4) Employee observation of monitoring. Affected employees, or their
representatives, shall be given a reasonable opportunity to observe any
monitoring required by this paragraph and shall have access to the records
thereof.
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(g) CAUTION SIGNS AND LABELS
(I) Caution Signs
(i) Posting. Caution signs shall be provided and displayed at each
location where airborne concentrations of asbestos fibers may be in
excess of the exposure limits prescribed in paragraph (b) of this
section. Signs shall be posted at such a distance from such a
location so that an employee may read the signs and take necessary
protective steps before entering the area marked by the signs. Signs
shall be posted at all approaches to areas containing excessive
concentrations of airborne asbestos fibers.
(ii) Sign specifications. The warning signs required by subdivision (i) of
this subparagraph shall conform to the requirements of 20" x 14"
vertical format signs specified in Section 1910.145(d)(4), and to this
subdivision. The signs shall display the following legend in the lower
panel, with letter sizes and styles of a visibility at least equal to
that specified in this subdivision.
LEGEND
NOTATION
Asbestos I" Sans Serif, Gothic or
Block
Dust Hazard 3/4" Sans Serif, Gothic or
Block
Avoid Breathing Dust 1/4" Gothic
Wear Assigned Protective Equipment 1/4" Gothic
Do Not Remain in Area Unless Your Work 1/4" Gothic
Requires It
Breathing Asbestos Dust May be Hazardous 14 Point Gothic
to Your Health
Spacing between lines shall be at least equal to the height of the upper of any
two lines.
(2) Caution Labels
(i) Labeling. Caution labels shall be affixed to all raw materials,
mixtures, scrap, waste, debris, and other products containing
asbestos fibers, or to their containers, except that no label is
required where asbestos fibers have been modified by a bonding
agent, coating, binder, or other material so that during any
reasonably foreseeable use, handling, storage, disposal, processing,
or transportation, no airborne concentrations of asbestos fibers in
excess of the exposure limits prescribed in paragraph (b) of this
section will be released.
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(ii) Label specifications. The caution labels required by subdivision (i)
of this subparagraph shall be printed in letters of sufficient size and
contrast as to be readily visible and legible. The label shall state:
CAUTION
Contains Asbestos Fibers
Avoid creating Dust
Breathing Asbestos Dust May Cause
Serious Bodily Harm
(h) HOUSEKEEPING
(I) Cleaning. All external surfaces in any place of employment shall be
maintained free of accumulations of asbestos fibers if, with their
dispersion, there would be an excessive concentration.
(2) Waste disposal. Asbestos waste, scrap, debris, bags, containers,
equipment, and asbestos-contaminated clothing, consigned for disposal,
which may produce in any reasonably foreseeable use, handling, storage,
processing, disposal or transportation airborne concentrations of asbestos
fibers in excess of the exposure limits prescribed in paragraph (b) of this
section shall be collected and disposed of in sealed impermeable bags, or
other closed, impermeable containers.
(i) Recordkeeping
(I) Exposure records. Every employer shall maintain records of any
personal or environmental monitoring required by this section.
Records shall be maintained for a period of at least 20 years and
shall be made available upon request to the Assistant Secretary of
Labor for Occupational Safety and Health, the Director of the
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, and to
authorized representatives of either.
(2) Employee access. Every employee and former employee shall have
reasonable/ access to any record required to be maintained by
subparagraph (I) of this paragraph, which indicates the employee's
own exposure to asbestos fibers.
(3) Employee notification. Any employee found to have been exposed at
any time to airborne concentrations of asbestos fibers in excess of
the limits prescribed in paragraph (b) of this section shall be notified
in writing of the exposure as soon as practicable but not later than 5
days of the finding. The employee shall also be timely notified of
the corrective action being taken.
(j) MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS
(I) General. The employer shall provide or make available at his cost,
medical examinations relative to exposure to asbestos required by this
paragraph.
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(2) Preplacement. The employer shall provide or make available to each of
his employees, within 30 calendar days following his first employment in
an occupation exposed to airborne concentrations of asbestos fibers, a
comprehensive medical examination, which shall include, as a minimum, a
chest roentgenogram (posterior-anterior 14x17 inches), a history to elicit
symptomatology of respiratory disease, and pulmonary function tests to
include forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume at I
second (FEV 1.0).
(3) Annual examinations. On or before January 31, 1973, and at least
annually thereafter, every employer shall provide, or make available,
comprehensive medical examinations to each of his employees engaged in
occupations exposed to airborne concentrations of asbestos fibers. Such
annual examination shall include, as a minimum, a chest roentgenogram
(posterior-anterior 14 x 17 inches), history to elicit symptomatology of
respiratory disease, and pulmonary function tests to include forced vital
capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume at I second (FEV 1.0).
(4) Termination of employment. The employer shall provide, or make
available, within 30 calendar days before or after the termination of
employment of any employee engaged in an occupation exposed to
airborne concentrations of asbestos fibers, a comprehensive medical
examination which shall include, as a minimum, a chest roentgenogram
(posterior-anterior 14x17 inches), a history to elicit symptomatology of
respiratory disease, and pulmonary function tests to include forced vital
capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume at I second (FEV 1.0).
(5) Recent examinations. No medical examination is required of any
employee, if adequate records show that the employee has been examined
in accordance with this paragraph within the past I-year period.
(6) Medical records.
(i) Maintenance. Employers of employees examined pursuant to this
paragraph shall cause to be maintained complete and accurate
records of c;ll such medical examinations. Records shall be retained
by employers for at least 20 years.
(ii) Access. Records of the medical examinations required by this
paragraph shall be provided upon request to employees, designated
representatives, and the Assistant Secretary in accordance with 29
CFR I9l0.20(a)-(e) and (g)-(i). These records shall also be provided
upon the request to the Director of NIOSH. Any physician who
conducts a medical examination required by this paragraph shall
furnish to the employer of the examined employee all the
information specifically required by this paragraph, and any other
medical information related to occupational exposure to asbestos
fibers.
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APPENDIX B
U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Subpart M - National Emission Standard
For Asbestos
(EPA ASBESTOS STANDARD)
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USEPA National Emission Standards for
Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAPS) Asbestos
Regulations
AuTHomtrr: Sea. 113 and 301(a) of the
Clean Air Act. at amended (42 U.S.C. 7412.
7601
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Manufacturing means the combining
of commercial asbestos—or, in the case
of woven friction products, the com-
bining of textiles containing commer-
cial asbestos—with any other
material(s). including commercial as-
bestos, and the processing of this com-
bination into a product.
Outside air means the air outside
buildings and structures.
Particulate asbestos material means
finely divided particles of asbestos ma-
terial.
Planned renovation operations
means a renovation operation, or a
number of such operations, in which
the amount of friable asbestos materi-
al that will be removed or stripped
within a given period of time can be
predicted. Individual nonscheduled op-
erations are included if a number of
such operations can be predicted to
occur during a given period of time
based on operating experience.
Remove means to take out friable as-
bestos materials from any facility.
Renovation means altering in any
way one or more facility components.
Operations in which load-supporting
structural members are wrecked or
taken out are excluded.
Roadways means surfaces on which
motor vehicles travel. This term in-
cludes highways, roads, streets, park-
ing areas, and driveways.
Strip means to take off friable asbes-
tos materials from any part of a facili-
ty.
Structural member means any load-
supporting member of a facility, such
as beams and load supporting walls: or
any nonload-supporting member, such
as ceilings and nonload-supporting
walls.
Visible emissions means any emis-
sions containing particulate asbestos
material that are visually detectable
without the aid of instruments. This
does not include condensed uncom-
bined water vapor.
[49 FR 13661, Apr. 5. 1984; 49 FR 25453.
June 21. 1984]
§ 61. 142 Standard for asbestos mills.
Each owner or operator of an asbes-
tos mill shall either discharge no visi-
ble emissions to the outside air from
that asbestos mill or use the methods
specified by § 61.154 to clean emissions
containing particulate asbestos materi-
al before they escape to. or are vented
to, the outside air.
§ 61.143 Standard for roadways.
No person may surface a roadway
with asbestos tailings or asbestos-con-
taining waste material on that road-
way, unless it is a temporary roadway
on an area of asbestos ore deposits.
[49 FR 13661. Apr. 5. 1984: 49 FR 25453.
June 21.19841
S 61.144 Standard for manufacturing.
(a) Applicability. This section ap-
plies to the following manufacturing
operations using commercial asbestos.
(1) The manufacture of cloth, cord.
wicks, tubing, tape, twine, rope.
thread, yarn, roving, lap. or other tex-
tile materials.
(2) The manufacture of cement
products.
(3) The manufacture of fireproof ing
and insulating materials.
(4) The manufacture of friction
products.
(5) The manufacture of paper, mill-
board, and felt.
(6) The manufacture of floor tile.
(7) The manufacture of paints, coat-
ings, caulks, adhesives. and sealants.
(8) The manufacture of plastics and
rubber materials.
(9) The manufacture of chlorine.
(10) The manufacture of shotgun
shell wads.
(11) The manufacture of asphalt
concrete.
(b) Standard. Each owner or opera-
tor of any of the manufacturing oper-
ations to which this section applies
shall either
(1) Discharge no visible emissions to
the outside air from these operations
or from any building or structure in
which they are conducted; or
(2) Use the methods specified by
J 61.154 to clean emissions from these
operations containing particulate as-
bestos material before they escape to.
or are vented to, the outside air.
961.145 Standard fur demolition and ren-
ovation: Applicability.
The requirements of §§61.146 and
61.147 apply to each owner or operator
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of a demolition or renovation oper-
ation as follows:
(a) If the amount of friable asbestos
materials in a facility being demol-
ished is at least 80 linear meters (260
linear feet) on pipes or at least 15
square meters (160 square feet) on
other facility components, all the re-
quirements of §§61.146 and 61.147
apply, except as provided in paragraph
(c) of this section.
(b) If the amount of friable asbestos
materials in a facility being demol-
ished is less than 80 linear meters (260
linear feet) on pipes and less than 15
square meters (160 square feet) on
other facility components, only the re-
quirements of paragraphs (a), (b). and
(C) (1). (2). (3). (4). and (5) of §61.146
apply.
(c) If the facility is being demolished
under an order of a State or local gov-
ernmental agency, issued because the
facility is structurally unsound and in
danger of imminent collapse, only the
requirements in § 61.146 and in para-
graphs (d). (e). (f), and (g) of § 61.147
apply.
(d) If at least 80 linear meters (260
linear feet) of friable asbestos materi-
als on pipes or at least 15 square
meters (160 square feet) of friable as-
bestos materials on other facility com-
ponents are stripped or removed at a
facility being renovated, all the re-
quirements of §§61.146 and 61.147
apply.
(1) To determine whether paragraph
(d) of this section applies to planned
renovation operations involving indi-
vidual nonscheduled operations, pre-
dict the additive amount of friable as-
bestos materials to be removed or
stripped over the maximum period of
time a prediction can be made, not to
exceed 1 year.
(2) To determine whether paragraph
(d) of this section applies to emergen-
cy renovation operations, estimate the
amount of friable asbestos materials
to be removed or stripped as a result
of the sudden, unexpected event that
necessitated the renovation.
(e) Owners or operators of demoli-
tion and renovation operations are
exempt from the requirements of
§§ 61.05(a). 61.07, and 61.09.
[49 FR 13661. Apr. 5. 1984: 49 FR 25453.
June 21.1984]
661.146 Standard for demolition and ren-
ovation: Notification requirements.
Each owner or operator to which
this section applies shall:
(a) Provide the Administrator with
written notice of intention to demolish
or renovate.
(b) Postmark or deliver the notice as
follows:
(1) At least 10 days before demoli-
tion begins if the operation is de-
scribed in § 61.145(a);
(2).At least 20 days before demoli-
tion begins if the operation is de-
scribed in § 61.145(b):
(3) As early as possible before demo-
lition begins if the operation is de-
scribed in § 61.145(c);
(4) As early as possible before ren-
ovation begins.
(c) Include the following informa-
tion in the notice:
(1) Name and address of owner or
operator.
(2) Description of the facility being
demolished or renovated, including
the size, age, and prior use of the facil-
ity.
(3) Estimate of the approximate
amount of friable asbestos material
present in the facility in terms of
linear feet of pipe, and surface area on
other facility components. For facili-
ties described in § 61.145(b). explain
techniques of estimation.
(4) Location of the facility being de-
molished or renovated.
(5) Scheduled starting and comple-
tion dates of demolition or renovation.
(6) Nature of planned demolition or
renovation and method(s) to be used.
(7) Procedures to be used to comply
with the requirements of this Subpart.
(8) Name and location of the waste
disposal site where the friable asbestos
waste material will be deposited.
(9) For facilities described in
§ 61.145(c), the name, title, and au-
thority of the State or local govern-
mental representative who has ordered
the demolition.
(Approved by the Office of Management
and Budget under control number 2000-
0264.)
[49 FR 13661. Apr. 5. 1984: 49 FR 25453.
June 21.1984]
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961.147 Standard for demolition and ren-
ovation: Procedures for asbestos emis-
sion control.
Each owner or operator to whom
this section applies shall comply with
the following procedures to prevent
emissions of paniculate asbestos mate-
rial to the outside air
(a) Remove friable asbestos materi-
als from a facility being demolished or
renovated before any wrecking or dis-
mantling that would break up the ma-
terials or preclude access to the mate-
rials for subsequent removal. However.
friable asbestos materials need not be
removed before demolition if:
(1) They are on a facility component
that ia encased in concrete or other
similar material; and
(2) These materials are adequately
wetted whenever exposed during dem-
olition.
(b) When a facility component cov-
ered or coated with friable asbestos
materials is being taken out of the fa-
cility as units or in sections:
(1) Adequately wet any friable asbes-
tos materials exposed during cutting
or disjointing operations: and
(2) Carefully lower the units or sec-
tions to ground level, not dropping
them or throwing them.
(c) Adequately wet friable asbestos
materials when they are being
stripped from facility components
before the members are removed from
the facility. In renovation operations.
wetting that would unavoidably
damage equipment Is not required if
the owner or operator
(1) Asks the Administrator to deter-
mine whether wetting to comply with
this paragraph would unavoidably
damage equipment, and. before begin-
ning to strip, supplies the Administra-
tor with adequate information to
make this determination: and
(2) When the Administrator does de-
termine that equipment damage would
be unavoidable, uses a local exhaust
ventilation and collection system de-
signed and operated to capture the
paniculate asbestos material produced
by the stripping and removal of the
friable asbestos materials. The system
must exhibit no visible emissions to
the outside air or be designed and op-
erated In accordance with the require-
ments in § 61.154.
(d) After a facility component has
been taken out of the facility as units
or in sections, either.
(1) Adequately wet friable asbestos
materials during stripping: or
(2) Use a local exhaust ventilation
and collection system designed and op-
erated to capture the particulate as-
bestos material produced by the strip-
ping. The system must exhibit no visi-
ble emissions to the outside air or be
designed and operated in accordance
with the requirements in i 61.154.
For friable asbestos materials
that have been removed or stripped:
(1) Adequately wet the materials to
ensure that they remain wet until
they are collected for disposal In ac-
cordance with § 61.152: and
(2) Carefully lower the materials to
the ground or a lower floor, not drop-
ping or throwing them; and
(3) Transport the materials to the
ground via dust-tight chutes or con-
tainers if they have been removed or
stripped more than 50 feet above
ground level and were not removed as
units or in sections.
(f) When the temperature at the
point of wetting is below O'C (32*F):
(1) Comply with the requirements of
paragraphs (d) and (e> of this section.
The owner or operator need not
comply with the other wetting re-
quirements in this section: and
(2) Remove facility components
coated or covered with friable asbestos
materials as units or in sections to the
maximum extent possible.
(g) For facilities described in
{61.145(c), adequately wet the portion
of the facility that contains friable as-
bestos materials during the wrecking
operation.
0 61.148 Standard for spraying.
The owner or operator of an oper-
ation in which asbestos-containing ma-
terials are spray applied shall comply
with the following requirements:
(a) Use materials that contain 1 per-
cent asbestos or less on a dry weight
basis for spray-on application on build-
ings, structures, pipes, and conduits.
except as provided in paragraph (c) of
this section.
(b) For spray-on application of mate-
rials that contain more than 1 percent
-------
asbestos on a dry weight basis on
equipment and machinery, except as
provided in paragraph (c) of this sec-
tion:
(1) Notify the Administrator at least
20 days before beginning the spraying
operation. Include the following infor-
mation in the notice:
(i) Name and address of owner or op-
erator.
(ii) Location of spraying operation.
(iii) Procedures to be followed to
meet the requirements of this para-
graph.
(2) Discharge no visible emissions to
the outside air from the spray-on ap-
plication of the asbestos-containing
material or use the methods specified
by i 61.154 to clean emissions contain-
ing paniculate asbestos material
before they escape to. or are vented to.
the outside air.
(c) The requirements of paragraphs
(a) and (b) of this section do not apply
to the spray-on application of materi-
als where the asbestos fibers in the
materials are encapsulated with a bitu-
minous or resinous binder during
spraying and the materials are not fri-
able after drying.
(d) Owners and operators of sources
subject to this section are exempt
from the requirements of Si61.05(a),
61.07. and 61.09.
(Approved by the Office of Management
and Budget under control number 2000-
0264.)
6 61.149 Standard for fabricating.
(a) Applicability. This section ap-
plies to the following fabricating oper-
ations using commercial asbestos:
(1) The fabrication of cement build-
ing products.
(2) The fabrication of friction prod-
ucts, except those operations that pri-
marily install asbestos friction materi-
als on motor vehicles.
(3) The fabrication of cement or sili-
cate board for ventilation hoods:
ovens: electrical panels: laboratory
furniture, bulkheads, partitions, and
ceilings for marine construction: and
flow control devices for the molten
metal industry.
(b) Standard. Each owner or opera-
tor of any of the fabricating oper-
ations to which this section applies
shall either
(1) Discharge no visible emissions to
the outside air from any of the oper-
ations or from any building or struc-
ture in which they are conducted; or
(2) Use the methods specified by
{61.154 to clean emissions containing
paniculate asbestos material before
they escape to. or are vented to. the
outside air.
• 61.150 Standard for insulating materials.
After the effective date of this regu-
lation, no owner or operator of a facili-
ty may install o: reinstall on a facility
component any insulating materials
that contain commercial asbestos if
the materials are either molded and
friable or wet-applied and friable after
drying. The provisions of this para-
graph do not apply to spray-applied
insulating materials regulated under
i 61.148.
§61.151 Standard for waste disposal for
asbestos mills.
Each owner or operator of any
source covered under the provisions of
i 61.142 shall:
(a) Deposit all asbestos-containing
waste material at waste'disposal sites
operated in accordance with the provi-
sions of i 61.156: and
(b) Discharge no visible emissions to
the outside air from the transfer of as-
bestos waste from control devices to
the tailings conveyor, or use the meth-
ods specified by i 61.154 to clean emis-
sions containing particulate asbestos
material before they escape to. or are
vented to, the outside air. Dispose of
the asbestos waste from control de-
vices In accordance with { 61.152(b) or
paragraph (c) of this section; and
(c) Discharge no visible emissions to
the outside air during the collection.
processing, packaclnc. transporting, or
deposition of any asbestos-containing
waste material, or use one of the dis-
posal methods specified in paragraphs
(c) (1) or (2) of this section, as follows:
(1) Use a wetting agent as follows:
(1) Adequately mix all asbestos-con-
taining waste material with a wetting
agent recommended by the manufac-
turer of the agent to effectively wet
dust and tailings, before depositing
the material at a waste disposal site.
Use the agent as recommended for the
-------
particular dust by the manufacturer
of the agent.
(ii) Discharge no visible emissions to
the outside air from the wetting oper-
ation or use the methods specified by
S 61.154 to clean emissions containing
paniculate asbestos material before
they escape to. or are vented to. the
outside air.
(iii) Wetting may be suspended when
the ambient temperature at the waste
disposal site is less than -9.5'C (15'F).
Determine the ambient air tempera-
ture by an appropriate measurement
method with an accuracy of
±1'CC±2*F). and record it at least
hourly while the wetting operation is
suspended. Keep the records for at
least 2 years in a form suitable for in-
spection.
(2) Use an alternative disposal
method that has received prior ap-
proval by the Administrator.
961.152 Standard for waste disposal for
manufacturing demolition, renovation,
spraying, and fabricating operations.
Each owner or operator of any
source covered under the provisions of
5161.144 and 61.149 shall:
(a) Deposit all asbestos-containing
waste material at waste disposal sites
operated in accordance with the provi-
sions of {61.156; and
(b) Discharge no visible emissions to
the outside air during the collection.
processing (including incineration),
packaging, transporting, or deposition
of any asbestos-containing waste mate-
rial generated by the source, or use
one of the disposal methods specified in
paragraphs (b)(l). (2). or (3) of this
section, as follows:
(1) Treat asbestos-containing waste
material with water
(i) Mix asbestos waste from control
devices with water to form a slurry:
adequately wet other asbestos-contain-
ing waste material: and
(ii) Discharge no visible emissions to
the outside air from collection, mixing.
and wetting operations, or use the
methods specified by S 61.154 to clean
emissions containing paniculate asbes-
tos material before they escape to. or
are vented to. the outside air. and
(iii) After wetting, seal all asbestos-
containing waste material in leak-tight
containers while wet; and
(iv) Label the containers specified in
paragraph (bXIXiii) as follows:
CAUTION
Contains Asbestos-
Avoid Opening or
Breaking Container
Breathing Asbestos la Hazardous
to Your Health
Alternatively, use warning labels
specified by Occupational Safety and
Health Standards of the Department
of Labor, Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA) under
29 CFR 1910.1001(g)(2)(ii).
(2) Process asbestos-containing
waste material into nonfriable forms:
(i) Form all asbestos-containing
waste material into nonfriable pellets
or other shapes: and
(ii) Discharge no visible emissions to
the outside air from collection and
processing operations, or use the
methods specified by i 61.154 to clean
emissions containing paniculate asbes-
tos material before they escape to. or
are vented to. the outside air.
(3) Use an alternative disposal
method that has received prior ap-
proval by the Administrator.
[49 FR 13661. Apr. 5. 1984: 49 FR 2S453.
June 21.19841
961.153 Standard for inactive waste dis-
posal sites for asbestos mills and man-
ufacturing and fabricating operations.
Each owner or operator of any inac-
tive waste disposal site that was oper-
ated by sources covered under § 61.142.
S 61.144. or $61.149 and received de-
posits of asbestos-containing waste
material generated by the sources.
shall
(a) Comply with one of the follow-
ing:
(1) Either discharge no visible emis-
sions to the outside air from an inac-
tive waste disposal site subject to this
paragraph: or
(2) Cover the asbestos-containing
waste material with at least 15 centi-
meters (6 inches) of compacted nonas-
bestos-containing material, and grow
and maintain a cover of vegetation on
-------
the area adequate to prevent exposure
of the asbestos-containing waste mate-
rial: or
(3) Cover the asbestos-containing
waste material with at least 60 centi-
meters (2 feet) of compacted nonasbes-
tos-containing material, and maintain
it to prevent exposure of the asbestos-
containing waste: or
(4) For inactive waste disposal sites
for asbestos tailings, apply a resinous
or petroleum-based dual suppression
agent that effectively binds dust and
controls wind erosion. Use the agent as
recommended for the particular asbes-
tos tailings by the manufacturer of
the dust suppression agent. Obtain
prior approval of the Administrator to
use other equally effective dust sup-
pression agents. For purposes of this
paragraph, waste crankcase oil is not
considered a dust suppression agent.
(b) Unless a natural barrier ade-
quately deters access by the general
public. Install and maintain warning
signs and fencing as follows, or comply
with paragraph (a)(2) or (a)(3) of this
section.
(1) Display warning signs at all en-
trances and at intervals of 100 m (330
feet) or less along the property line of
the site or along the perimeter of the
sections of the site where asbestos-con-
taining waste material was deposited.
The warning signs must:
(1) Be posted in such a manner and
location that a person can easily read
the legend; and
(ii) Conform to the requirements for
51 cmx36 cm (20"xl4") upright
format signs specified in 29 CFR
1910.145(d)(4) and this paragraph; and
(iii) Display the following legend in
the lower panel with letter sizes and
styles of a visibility at least equal to
those specified in this paragraph.
icgwtt
AlMtto* WMt* DnpOUl SU .
Do Not Cratt* Dull
Brwtnmg Aiomtof • Mai-
•room ta Yew hMitn.
NotMefl
2.5 cm (1 inen) S*n» Sent.
Gome v Buck
16 cm (». meti) S*n> Sum.
Gothic or Block
14 Pom! Gone.
Spacing between any two lines must
be at least equal to the height of the
upper of the two lines.
(2) Fence the perimeter of the site in
a manner adequate to deter access by
the general public.
(3) Upon request and supply of ap-
propriate information, the Administra-
tor will determine whether a fence or
a natural barrier adequately deters
access by the general public.
(c) The owner or operator may use
an alternative control method that
has received prior approval of the Ad-
ministrator rather than comply with
the requirements of paragraph (a) or
(b)of this section.
961.154 Air-cle*ninj.
(a) The owner or operator who elects
to use air-cleaning, as permitted by
ii 61.142. 61.144. 61.147(c>(2).
61.147(d)(2). 61.148(b>(2). 61.149(b).
61.16Kb). 61.151(0(1X11). 61.152(b)(l)
(ii). and 61.152(b)(2) shall:
(1) Use fabric filter collection de-
vices, except as noted in paragraph (b)
of this section, doing all of the follow-
ing:
(i) Operating the fabric filter collec-
tion devices at a pressure drop of no
more than .995 kilopascal (4 inches
water gage), as measured across the
filter fabric: and
(ii) Ensuring that the airflow perme-
ability, as determined by ASTM
Method D737-75. does not exceed 9
mVmin/ma (30 ft'/min/ft1) for woven
fabrics or lWmin/m«(35 ftVmin/ft1)
for felted fabrics, except that 12 mV
min/mj (40 ft'min/ft1) for woven and
14 m'/min/m* (45 ft •mtn/ft') for
felted fabrics is allowed for filtering
air from asbestos ore dryers: and
(Jii) Ensuring that felted fabric
weighs at least 475 grams per square
meter (14 ounces per square yard) and
is at least 1.6 millimeters (one-six-
teenth Inch) thick throughout: and
(iv) Avoiding the use of synthetic
fabrics that contain fill yarn other
than that which is spun.
(2) Properly install, use, operate, and
maintain all air-cleaning equipment
authorized by this section. Bypass de-
vices may be used only during upset or
emergency conditions and then only
for so long as It takes to shut down the
operation generating the paniculate
asbestos material.
-------
(b) There are the following excep-
tions to paragraph (a)(l):
(1) If the use of fabric creates a fire
or explosion hazard, the Administra-
tor may authorize as a substitute the
use of wet collectors designed to oper-
ate with a unit contacting energy of at
least 9.95 kilopascals (40 inches water
gage pressure).
(2) The Administrator may author-
ize the use of filtering equipment
other than that described in para-
graphs (aXI) and (b)(l) of this section
if the owner or operator demonstrates
to the Administrator's satisfaction
that it is equivalent to the described
equipment in filtering paniculate as-
bestos material
(49 FR 13661. Apr. 5. 1984: 49 PR 23453.
June 21.1984]
961.155 Reporting.
(a) Within 90 days after the effec-
tive date of this subpart. each owner
or operator of any existing source to
which this subpart applies shall pro-
vide the following information to the
Administrator, except that any owner
or operator who provided this infor-
mation prior to April 5. 1984 in order
to comply with § 61.24 (which this sec-
tion replaces) is not required to resub-
mittt.
(1) A description of the emission
control equipment used for each proc-
ess; and
(2) If a fabric filter device Is used to
control emissions, the pressure drop
across the fabric filter in inches water
gage; and
(i) If the fabric device uses a woven
fabric, the airflow permeability in mV
min/m* and; if the fabric is synthetic.
whether the fill yarn is spun or not
spun;and
(ii) If the fabric filter device uses a
felted fabric, the density in g/m1. the
minimum thickness in inches, and the
airflow permeability in nWmin/m1.
(3) For sources subject to Si 61.151
and 61.152:
(i) A brief description of each proc-
ess that generates asbestos-containing
waste material: and
(ii) The average weight of asbestos-
containing waste material disposed of.
measured in kg/day: and
(iii) The emission control methods
used in all stages of water disposal:
and
(iv) The type of disposal site or in-
cineration site used for ultimate dis-
posal, the name of the site operator.
and the name and location of the dis-
posal site.
(4) For sources subject to S 61.153:
(i) A brief description of the site:
and
(ii) The method or methods used to
comply with the standard, or alterna-
tive procedures to be used.
(b) The information required by
paragraph (a) of this section must ac-
company the information required by
§61.10. The information described in
this section must be reported using
the format of Appendix A of this part.
(Approved by this Office of Management
and Budget under control number 2000-
0264)
(See. 114. Clean Air Act u amended (42
U.S.C. 7414))
9 61.156 Active waste disposal sites.
To be an acceptable site for disposal
of asbestos-containing waste material
under 5561.151 and 61.152. an active
waste disposal site must meet the re-
quirements of this section.
(a) Either there must be no visible
emissions to the outside air from any
active waste disposal site where asbes-
tos-containing waste material has been
deposited, or the requirements of
paragraph (c) or (d) of this section
must be met.
(b) Unless a natural barrier ade-
quately deters access by the general
public, either warning signs and fenc-
ing must be installed and maintained
as follows, or the requirements of
paragraph (cxi) of this section must
be met.
(1) Warning signs must be displayed
at all entrances and at intervals of 100
m (330 ft) or less along the property
line of the site or along the perimeter
of the sections of the site where asbes-
tos-containing waste material is depos-
ited. The warning signs must:
(i) Be posted in such a manner and
location that a person can easily read
the legend: and
(ii) Conform to the requirements of
51 cm x 36 cm (20" x 14") upright
-------
format signs specified in 29 CFR
1910.145(d)<4) and this paragraph: and
(iii) Display the following legend in
the lower panel with letter sizes and
styles of a visibility at least equal to
those specified in this paragraph.
l*D*na
ASDHtM Will* DupOU)
Sat
Do Not CtMt* Dutl
BlMVung AtbMtot « Hai-
•foous to Yot» H««itn
Nouuon
25 on (1 «ch) Sw« tail.
Comic or Bttc*
VB cm (». ncn) Sm S*«.
Gotnco> Block.
u POM Gome.
Spacing between any two lines must
be at least equal to the height of the
upper of the two lines.
(2) The perimeter of the disposal
site must be fenced in a manner ade-
quate to deter access by the general
public.
(3) Upon request and supply of ap-
propriate information, the Administra-
tor will determine whether a fence or
a natural barrier adequately deters
access by the general public.
(c) Rather than meet the no visible
emission requirement of paragraph (a)
of this section, an active waste dispos-
al site would be an acceptable site if at
the end of each operating day. or at
least once every 24-hour period while
the site is in continuous operation, the
asbestos-containing waste material
which was deposited at the site during
the operating day or previous 24-hour
period is covered with either.
(1) At least 15 centimeters (6 inches)
of compacted nonasbestos-containing
material, or
(2) A resinous or petroleum-based
dust suppression agent that effectively
binds dust and controls wind erosion.
This agent must be used as recom-
mended for the particular dust by the
manufacturer of the dust suppression
agent. Other equally effective dust
suppression agents may be used upon
prior approval by the Administrator.
For purposes of this paragraph, waste
crankcase oil is not considered a dust
suppression agent.
(d) Rather than meet the no visible
emission requirement of paragraph (a)
of this section, an active waste dispos-
al site would be an acceptable site if
an alternative control method for
emissions that has received prior ap-
proval by the Administrator is used.
(Sees. 112 »nd 301(a) of the Clean Air Act as
amended (42 U.S.C. 7412. 7601(a»
-------
APPENDIX C
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION.
AN EMPLOYER'S MANUAL
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U. S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare
Public Health Service
Center for Disease Control
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
-------
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION:
AN EMPLOYER'S MANUAL
U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare
Public Health Service
Center for Disease Control
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
Division of Technical Services
Cincinnati, Ohio
October 1978
For sale by thv SiipciiutentleiU ol Doc'innenls, U.S. Covcrnmem I'rinling unite
Washington, D.C. 'JtUO.'
Siin-k NninliiT ni7-ii:rt-fn'i.!ii--!
-------
PREFACE
The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 describes legal re-
quirements for both the selection and maintenance of respiratory
protective equipment and the instruction of employees in its use.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
(NIOSH) in the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare
(DHEVV) has written this manual to aid employers in setting up a
respirator program.
The manual discusses respiratory protection requirements as they
apply to the General Industry Standards, i.e., 29CFR1910. Not in-
cluded are respiratory protection requirements as mandated by
29CFR1915-17 (ship repairing, ship building, ship breaking),
29CFR1918 (longshoring) and 29CFR192
-------
c. Low and High Temperatures, 24
Respiratory Protection Program Surveillance Evaluation, 24
a. Surveillance of Work Area Conditions, 25
b. Program Evaluation, 25
Employee Training Program, 28
Appendix I — Mechanisms for Determination of
Concentrations of Hazardous Substances, 39
Appendix II — Oxygen Deficient Atmospheres, 43
Appendix III — Respirator Requirements as Required by
Specific OSHA Standards, 46
Appendix IV— Respirator Requirements as Suggested by
the Standards Completion Program and NIOSH Criteria
Documents, 48
Appendix V — Sources of Assistance, 49
Appendix VI — Medical Aspects of Respiratory Equipment
Usage, 53
Appendix VII — Respiratory Protective Equipment, 57
Appendix VIII — Respirator Fit Tests, 76
Appendix IX — List of Exhibits, 83
Appendix X — References, 91
Appendix XI — Reader Service Card, 92
IV
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
This Manual was prepared under the direction of Gerald J.
Karches, Chief, Technical Information Development Branch
(T1DB), Division of Technical Services, National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), with the help of
individuals from the Division of Safety Research. P.A. Froehlich,
Chief, Technical Publications Development Section, TIDB, had
responsibility for preparation of the Manual. Principal contributors
to its development were: Thomas F. Bloom, Industrial Hygiene
Engineer; TIDB, Walter Ruch, Ph.D., Regional Consultant for
Occupational Safety and Health, Region X; George Pettigrew
Regional Consultant for Occupational Safety and Health, Region
VI; Donna Berry, Industrial Hygienist, TIDB. Comments on this
manual are encouraged.
-------
I. GENERAL OVERVIEW: THE
EMPLOYER AND RESPIRATORY
PROTECTION
A. WHY RESPIRATORY PROTECTION IS
REQUIRED
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has
set maximum exposure standards for many airborne toxic
materials. If employee exposure to these substances exceeds the
standard, the law requires that feasible engineering controls and/or
administrative controls be installed or instituted to reduce
employee exposure to acceptable levels. If these controls do not
prove feasible, or while they are being installed/instituted, the
employer us required to provide appropriate respiratory protection
for the employee. Respiratory protection is also required when
working in oxygen deficient atmospheres, i.e., where the oxygen con-
tent in the breathable air is insufficient. Respiratory protection may
also be necessary for routine but infrequent operations, for non-
routine operations in which the employee is exposed briefly to high
concentrations of a hazardous substance, e.g., during maintenance
or repair activities, or during emergency conditions.
B. THE RESPIRATORY PROTECTION
PROGRAM
Providing respiratory protective equipment to the employee,
however, is only one aspect of the employer's responsibility pertain-
ing to the use of respiratory protective equipment as a control
measure. A respiratory protection program must be implemented.
1
-------
The basic elements of a program are outlined briefly in the follow-
ing text.
The program is "established" by management, and an individual is
designated to head the program. This person develops the standard
operating procedure. This operating procedure describes the follow-
ing program aspects:
• The basis for selection of a specific type of respiratory protective
equipment.
• Provision for medical screening of each employee assigned to
wear respiratory equipment to determine if he/she is physically or
psychologically able to wear a respirator.
• Provisions for assigning respiratory protective equipment to
employees for their exclusive use, where practical.
• Provisions for testing for the proper fit of the respiratory protec-
tive equipment.
• Provisions for regularly cleaning and disinfecting the respiratory
protective equipment.
• Provisions for proper storage of respiratory protective equipment.
• Provisions for periodic inspection and repair of respiratory pro-
tective equipment.
• A periodic evaluation by the administrator of the program to
assure its continued functioning and effectiveness.
• An employee training program in which the employee can become
familiar with the respiratory protective equipment, and be trained
in the proper use and the limitations of the equipment.
The above "program" must be instituted as a control measure only
after it has been determined that: (1) employee exposure to chemi-
cal agents exceeds established limits (OSHA standards), and ('_')
engineering controls to alleviate the exposure are not feasible, or (,'t)
while engineering controls are being implemented. However, even if
you do not have operations in which employee exposure to a sub-
stance will exceed the standards, a respirator protection program
should he developed to address the infrequent neeeimary use of
respirators.
The following sections discuss, in some detail, each of the above
aspects. The Exhibits referenced provide exatuples uf what might be
included in a company's safety manual. See Appendix IX.
II. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION
PROGRAM
Designation of Responsible Person to Administer the Program.
This individual is responsible for coordinating the various aspects
of the program. The person's technical and professional back-
ground should enable him or her to make sound decisions based on
an evaluation and understanding of workplace hazards. Preferably,
the individual should be a safety engineer, industrial hygienist, or
physician. In a small company, especially where respirator usage is
limited, the program may be directed by the company owner, fore-
man, or other supervisory personnel. Regardless of who assumes
responsibility for the program, the individual should have the full
support of high level management.
III. RESPIRATOR SELECTION
PROCEDURE
The proper selection of respiratory protective equipment involves
three /x/.s/'r steps: (1) the identification of the hazard, (2) the evalua-
tion of the ha/.ard, and C5) finally the selection of the appropriate
approved respiratory equipment based on the first two considera-
tions.
A. IDENTIFICATION OF THE HAZARD
Identification (and evaluation) of the hazard forms the basis for a
decision on the need for the respirator program. If a survey of
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operations and work environments indicates that no employees are
being exposed to contaminant concentrations exceeding established
limits (OSHA standards) then a respirator program is not required.
However, your company may be using unregulated substance(s) for
which there is no standard. An "in-house" evaluation may have
indicated the need for respiratory protection equipment for this
substance.
Whether management is undertaking a survey (and evaluation) to
determine the need for a program, or has already determined (from
in-house or outside consultants) the need for respiratory equipment,
this section will provide insight for both management and
employees into the selection process.
When a survey to determine the need for respirators is to be under-
taken, it is important, initially, to know something about the
different kinds of hazardous atmospheres which may require the
use of respirators.
/. Gaseous Contaminants
Gaseous contaminants add another invisible material to what is
already a mixture of invisible gases — the air we breathe. These
contaminants are of two types.
a. Gases are the normal form of some substances, e.g., carbon
dioxide. Such substances are solids or liquids only at much
lower temperatures or much higher pressures than are com-
monly found in an industrial environment. Carbon dioxide,
lor instance, is a gas at room temperature. Hut it also occurs
as solid "dry ice" at low temperatures, or as a liquid in pres-
surized tanks.
b. Vapors are like gases except thai they are formed by the
evaporation of substances, such as acetone or
trichloroethylene, which ordinarily occur as liquids.
2. Inarticulate Contaminants
Paniculate contaminants are made up of tiny particles or
droplets of a substance. Many of these particles are so small that
they float around in the air indefinitely and are easily inhaled.
There are three types of participates:
a. Dusts are solid particles produced by such processes as
grinding, crushing, and mixing of powder compounds. Exam-
ples are sand and plaster dust.
b. Mists are tiny liquid droplets given off whenever a liquid is
sprayed, vigorously mixed, or otherwise agitated. Acid mists
around diptanks used for metal cleaning, and oil mists near
newspaper printing presses are two examples.
c. Fumes are solid condensation particles of extremely small
particle size. Fumes are found in the air near soldering, weld-
ing, and bra/ing operations, as well as near molten metal pro-
cesses such as casting and galvanizing.
3. Combination Contaminants
The two basic forms — gaseous and participate — frequently oc-
cur together. Paint spraying operations, for example, produce
both paint mist (participate) and solvent vapors (gaseous).
•/. ().\\ffvn Deficient Atniosphi'res
In an oxygen deficient atmosphere, the problem is not the pres-
ence of something harmful, but the absence of something essen-
tial. These atmospheres are most commonly found in confined
and usually poorly ventilated spaces. Oxygen deficient at-
mospheres are classified as immediately dangerous to life (see
following discussion). Examples are silos, petrochemical tanks,
and the holds of ships. In some situations, an oxygen deficient at-
mosphere is purposely maintained. For instance, fruit is some-
times kept in warehouses with a high carbon dioxide concentra-
tion and a small oxygen concentration. Oxygen deficient at-
mospheres occur in two different ways:
tt. Oxygen may be "used up" by a chemical reaction. This is
what happens when fire burns.
b. Oxygen is replaced by another gas. It a room with normal
air (approximately 2I'< oxygen) fills up with another gas, e.g.,
helium, there will be a smaller amount of oxygen available for
breathing because some of it will have been displaced by the
helium gas.
A more detailed discussion of oxygen deficient atmospheres can
be found in Appendix II.
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5. Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health
This is -A term which is used to describe very hazardous at-
mospheres where employee exposure can:
a. Cause serious injury or death within a short time. Examples
are employee exposure to high concentrations of carbon
monoxide or hydrogen sulfide.
b. Cause serious delayed effects. Employee exposure to low
concentrations of radioactive materials or cancer-causing
agents are examples.
B. EVALUATION OF THE HAZARD
A walk-through survey of the plant to identify employee groups or
processes, or worker environments where the use of respiratory pro-
tective equipment may be required, is the next step in the respirator
selection process.
1. The Hazard Sunny
The walk-through survey to identify and quantify the ha/.ardous
substances or conditions that require respiratory protective
equipment can be facilitated by reference to the below listed Ap-
pendices and by use of the Hazard Evaluation Form (see Figure
1).
a. Appendix I: This Appendix discusses some typical methods
and instruments used in determining the concentration of air-
borne contaminants. However, only qualified individuals
must use these instruments and interpret the results. If the
facility does not have in-house qualified personnel, outside
consultation will be required (see Appendix V).
b. Appendix II: This Appendix discusses oxygen deficient at-
mospheres and points out some of the "definitions" of an oxy-
gen deficient atmosphere.
c. Appendix III: This Appendix itemizes specific OSHA stand-
ards where the use of respiratory protective equipment is re-
quired.
(I. Appendix VII: This Appendix describes some of the various
types of respiratory protective equipment used in reducing and
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preventing exposure to air contaminants. The Appendix does
not attempt to cover all makes and models of available
respiratory protective equipment.
The Hazard Evaluation Form (see Figure 1) should be filled out,
MS completely as possible, during the walk-through survey. He
sure to enter any details about the work environment which
could (ultimately) affect the choice of (or negate the requirement
for) respiratory protective equipment.
Kxhibit II illustrates a statement governing the procedure- for
selection of respiratory protective equipment.
C. PURCHASE OF RESPIRATORY EQUIPMENT
If the evaluation of results of the walk-through survey indicate the
need for corrective action, and if the decision has been made to use-
respiratory protective equipment, the next step'is the actual
purchase of the equipment. The program administrator should
have the authority to approve the purchase of respiratory protective
equipment.
1. Approval
When purchasing respiratory protective equipment, be sure to
purchased upproced equipment for the particular contaminant.
An approved respirator is one that has been tested and found to
meet minimum performance standards by the Mine Safety and
Health Administration (MSHA) and the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). OSHA requires that
approved respirators be used if they are available. If only one
brand of respirator is approved for a particular hazard, then that
brand is considered to be "available" and must be used.
a. A .\IOSH approved respirator contains the following:
• An assigned identification number placed on each unit, e.g.,
TC-21C-10I.
• A label identifying the type of hazard the respirator is ap-
proved to protect against.
• Additional information on the label which indicates limita-
8
lions and identifies the component parts approved for use with
the basic unit.
/). In the past, the Bureau of Mines (BOM) approved respira-
tors. The BOM no longer grants approval; however, some
older respirators which were BOM-approved may still he
used.
• BOM-approved self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
may he used until March .'Jl, 1979.
• BOM-approved supplied air respirators may be used until
March :1I, 1980.
• BOM-approved gas masks may be used until a date as yet
not established.
IV. MEDICAL ASPECTS OF
RESPIRATORY EQUIPMENT USAGE
The use of any type of respirator may inipose some physiological
stress on the user. Air-purifying respirator*, for example, make
breathing more difficult because the filter or cartridge impedes the
flow of air. The special exhalation valve on an open circuit pressure
demand respirator require* the wearer to exhale against significant
resistance. The bulk and weight of an SCBA can be a burden. If the
wearer is using an airline respirator, he/she might have to drag up
to .'100 feet of hose around. All of the above factors can significantly
increase the employee's workload. The wearer should at least have
a cursory medical examination to determine if he/she is medically
able to wear respiratory protective equipment, without aggravating
a pre-existing medical problem. Some medical aspects to be con-
sidered by an examining physician are detailed in Appendix VI.
While a medical examination by a physician is the preferred screen-
ing mechanism for respirator usage, the following checklist will give
a good indication of the prospective user's ability to wear a respira-
tor.
• Lung —History of asthma or emphysema.
—Difficulty in breathing.
—Previously documented lung problems.
9
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• Heart: —High blood pressure.
—Artery diseases.
—Documented heart problems.
• Other —Missing or arthritic fingers.
—Facial scars.
—Claustrophobia.
—Poor eyesight.
A "yes" answer to any of the preceding questions would constitute a
warning sign regarding the use of respirators. A medical opinion to
confirm any of the above situations (answered "yes") should then
be obtained.
Exhibit IV illustrates a policy statement concerning the medical
aspect of respirator usage.
V. ISSUANCE OF RESPIRATORY
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Where practical, the user should be given respiratory protective
equipment lor his/her exclusive use. A system of user cards and a
journal can he established to keep track of all employees who are
issued respiratory protective equipment. The administrator issues a
wallet-sized card to the user showing what respirator the user is to
wear and what the contaminant is. A record of issuance of the card
i.s kept in the journal. The user can only obtain the respirator
specified on his card. Kach respirator permanently assigned to an
individual should be durably marked to indicate to whom it was
assigned. This mark must not affect the fit or performance in any
wav.
Kxhibit V illustrates a policy statement and a use card and journal
scheme.
10
VI. RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT FITTING
It is essential that respiratory protective equipment be properly fit-
ted to the employee when it is issued. All the care that went into the
design and manufacture of a respirator to maximize protection will
not protect the wearer fully if there is an improper match between
facepiece and wearer, or improper wearing practices. There are two
considerations with respect to proper fit.
• Assuming that there are several brands of a particular type of
fdci'fiifci' available (you should provide several to choose from),
which u/ic fits best?
• How does the i/.scr know when the respirator fits properly?
The answers to the above questions can be determined by the use of
a fitting test.
A. TYPES OF FITTING TESTS
There are two types of fitting tests: qualitative and quantitative
tests. (Jtuilitdtii'i' tests are last, usually simple, but not as accurate
an indicator of improper lit as the quantitative test. The i/u(inttt(i-
• tii't- test, although more accurate, requires the purchase of expen-
sive equipment, requires a specially trained operator, and in many
instances is of limited use due to its complexity and bulk.
Two other qualitative fit tests, (he positive pressure fit test and the
negative pressure fit test, can be used as a quick check of the fit of
the respirator facepiece before beginning or during work in the
hazardous atmosphere. These tests would apply only to the air-
purifying respirators.
11
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Appendix VIII presents a discussion on the various types of fitting
tests — both qualitative and quantitative. The program adminis-
trator should choose the best method(s) suited for the program and
demonstrate and explain the methodls) to the respiratory protec-
tive equipment users.
B. FREQUENCY OF FITTING TESTS
Fitting tests should be repeated at appropriate intervals, particu-
larly when there is a change in the wearer's physical status — such
as growth of facial hair or change in face contours.
C. SPECIAL PROBLEMS IN RESPIRATOR
FITTING
Facial hair lying between the sealing surface of a respirator
fact-piece and the wearer's skin will prevent a good seal. Items such
as beards and sideburns can prevent satisfactory sealing. The seal-
ing problem is especially critical when non-powered air-purifying
respirators are used. The negative pressure developed in the
facepiece of these respirators during inhalation can lead to leakage
of contaminant into the facepiece when there is a poor seal. Some
atmosphere supplying respirators of the airline type, due to their
mode of operation, can also lead to leakage at the sealing surface.
Therefore, individuals who have stubble (even a few days' growth
may permit excessive leakage of contaminant), a moustache,
sideburns, or a beard that passes between the skin and the sealing
surface should not wear a respirator.
Corrective lenses that have temple bars or straps should not be used
when a full-facepiece respirator is worn since the bars or straps
could pass through the facepiece to face seal. Manufacturers of
respiratory protective equipment can provide kits for installing
eyeglasses in their respirator facepieces. These glasses or lenses
must be mounted by a qualified individual to insure proper fitting.
Cont.act lenses should not be worn while wearing a respirator,
especially in a highly contaminated atmosphere. A properly fitted
12
respirator (primarily a full facepiece respirator) may stretch the
skin around the eyes, thus increasing the possibility that the contact
lens will fall out. Also, contaminants that do penetrate the respira-
tor may get underneath the contact lens and cause severe discom-
fort. The user's first reaction would be to remove the facepiece to
remedy the situation — which could be fatal in a lethal environ-
ment.
Exhibit VI illustrates a policy statement concerning equipment tit-
ting procedures.
VII. MAINTENANCE OF RESPIRATORY
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
On-going maintenance of respiratory protective equipment is an im-
portant part of the program. Wearing poorly maintained or mal-
functioning equipment may be, in a sense, as dangerous as not
wearing a respirator. Employees wearing a malfunctioning respira-
tor think they are protected, when, in reality, they are not. The con-
sequences of this situation can be fatal.
While OSI1A places strong emphasis on the importance of an ade-
quate maintenance program, it does permit the tailoring of the
maintenance program to the type of plant and hazards involved.
All maintenance programs should follow manufacturer's instruc-
tions and should include provisions for:
• Cleaning and disinfecting of equipment;
• Storage;
• Inspection for defects; and
• Repair
Exhibit VI illustrates a policy statement concerning respiratory
protective equipment maintenance.
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A. CLEANING AND DISINFECTING
In large programs where respiratory protective equipment is used
routinely, respirators should he cleaned and disinfected daily. In
small programs where respirators are used occasionally, periodic
cleaning and disinfecting is appropriate. Individual workers who
maintain their own respirator should be trained in the cleaning of
respirators.
I. Methods
The actual cleaning may be done in a variety of ways.
«. The respiratory protection equipment should be washed
with detergent in warm water using a brush, throughly rinsed
in clean water, and then air dried in a clean place, ('are should
be taken to prevent damage from rough handling. This
method is an accepted procedure for a small respirator pro-
gram or where each worker cleans his/her own respirator.
b. A standard domestic-type clothes washer may be used if a
rack is installed to hold the facepieces in a fixed position. (If
the facepieces are placed loose in a washer, the agitator may
damage them.) This method is especially useful in large pro-
grams where respirator usage is extensive.
2. Detergents and Disinfectants
If possible, detergents containing a bactericide should be used.
Organic solvents should not be used, as they can deteriorate the
rubber facepiece.
a. If the above combination is not available, a detergent may
be used, fulltwed by a disinfecting rinse. Reliable disinfec-
tants may be made from some available household solutions.
• Hypochlorite solution (f>0ppm of chlorine) made by adding
approximately '2 tablespoons of chlorine bleach per gallon of
water. A 2-minute immersion disinfects the respirators.
• Aqueous solution of iodine (5()ppm made by adding approx-
imately 1 teaspoon of tincture of iodine per gallon of water).
Again, a '2-minute immersion is sufficient and will not damage
the rubber and plastic in the respirator facepieces. ('heck with
the manufacturer to find out the proper temperature for the
solutions.
14
b. If the respirators are washed by hand, a separate disinfect-
ing rinse may be provided. If a washing machine is used, the
disinfectant must be added to the rinse cycle, and the amount
of water in the machine at that time will have to be measured
to determine the correct amount of disinfectant to be added.
B. RINSING
The cleaned and disinfected respirators should be rinsed
thoroughly in clean water (120°F maximum) to remove all traces of
detergent, cleaner and saniti/.er, and disinfectant. This in n'/'\ int-
portant to pri'i't'nt dermatitis.
C. DRYING
The respirators may be allowed to dry by themselves on a clean sur-
face. They also may be hung from a horizontal wire, like drying
clothes, but care must be taken not to damage the facepieces.
D. STORAGE OF EQUIPMENT
All the care that has gone into cleaning and maintenance ot a
respirator can be negated by improper storage. Respiratory protec-
tive equipment must be stored so as to protect it from dust, sunlight,
heat, extreme cold, excessive moisture, and damaging chemicals.
Leaving a respirator unprotected, as on a workbench or in a tool
cabinet or tool box among heavy wrenches, can lead to damage ot
the working parts or permanent distortion of the facepiece, thus
making it ineffective.
After cleaning and disinfecting the respirators, they should be
placed individually in heat-sealed or resealable plastic bags until
reissue. They should be stored in a single layer with the facepiece
and exhalation valve in a more or less normal position to prevent
the rubber or plastic from taking a permanent distorted "set."
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1. A ir-purifying Respirators
Air-purifying respirators kept ready for nonroutine or emergency
use should be stored in a cabinet in individual compartments. A
steel wall-mounted cabinet with six compartments is shown
below.
Note that each compartment is clearly labeled with the user's
name and that the respirators are in plastic bags.
Another acceptable method of storage in a standard steel storage
cabinet is shown above. Note that the respirators are stored in a
single layer.
2. Air-supplying Respiratory Protective Equipment
A storage chest for self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
may be purchased from the respirator manufacturer.
17
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Storage (.'host for SCKA
Storage cabinets should be located in noncontaminated, but
readily accessible, areas.
E. REPAIR OF RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT
Continued usage of respiratory protective equipment may require
periodic repair or replacement of component parts of the equip-
ment. Such repairs and parts replacement must be done by a
qualified individuul(.s).
Replacement of parts and repair of air-punlying respirators should,
in most cases, present little problem. Most, if not aH, equipment
manufacturers supply literature which detail the component pans
of their respirator and also include servicing information. The
manufacturer will also provide replacement parts. Replacement
parts for respiratory protective equipment must be those of the
manulacturer of the equipment. Siihntitntuiti of jxi'ls from u
different brtiiH/ or type uf respirator will ini-alidate the (i/>/iror(il of
tilt- respirator.
Defective air-supplying respiratory protective equipment, with the
exception of the SCBA, can be repaired and worn if broken parts
are replaced by a qualified individual — again with the aid of the
manufacturer's literature and parts. Maintenance of SCBA equip-
ment, however, is more difficult, primarily because of the valve and
regulator assembly. Because of this, regulations require SCBA
equipment to be returned to the manufacturer for adjustment or
repair.
VIII. INSPECTION FOR DEFECTS
An important part of a respirator maintenance program is the in-
spection of the devices. If performed carefully, inspections will iden-
tify damaged or malfunctioning respirators.
Exhibit VII illustrates a policy statement concerning inspection
procedures.
A. INSPECTION SCHEDULES
All respiratory protective equipment must be inspected:
• before and after each use; and
• during cleaning.
Equipment designated for emergency use must be inspected:
• after each use;
• during cleaning; and
• at least monthly.
Self-contained breathing apparatus must be inspected
• at least monthly.
B. RECORDKEEPING
A record must be kept of inspection dates and findings for respira-
turn maintained fur emergency use.
19
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C. INSPECTION CONSIDERATIONS
This section itemizes some of the primary defects to look for in in-
spection of the components of the respirator. When appropriate, in-
formation within the parentheses are suggested actions to he taken.
In'many cases, you will have to contact the manufacturer of the
equipment or the equipment vendor.
I. Dis/iosable respirator— check for:
» holes in the filter (obtain new disposable n-spiratorl;
• straps for elasticity and deterioration (replace straps — con-
tact manufacturer I; and
• metal nose clip for deterioration, if applicable (obtain new dis-
posable respirator).
'2. Air-purifying respirators (i/uarter-mask, half-mask, full
facepiece; and gas mask)
a. Rubber facepiece — check for:
• excessive dirt (clean all dirt from facepiece);
• cracks, tears, or holes (obtain new facepiece);
• distortion (allow facepiece to "sit" — free from any .con-
straints and see if distortion disappears; if not, obtain new
facepiece); and
• cracked, scratched, or loose fitting lenses (contact respirator
manufacturer to see if replacement is possible; otherwise, ob-
tain new facepiece).
b. Headstraps — check for:
• breaks or tears (replace headstraps);
• loss of elasticity (replace headstraps);
• broken of malfunctioning buckles or attachments (obtain
new buckles); and
• excessively worn serrations on the head harness which
might allow the facepiece to slip (replace headstrap).
c. Inhalation valve, exhalation valve — check for:
• detergent residue, dust particles, or dirt on valve or valve
seat (clean residue with soap and water);
• cracks, tears, or distortion in the valve material or valve
seat (contact manufacturer for instructions); and
• missing or defective valve cover (obtain valve cover from
manufacturer).
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• breaks or kinks in air supply hoses and end fitting attach-
ments (replace hose and/or fitting);
• tightness of connections;
• proper setting of regulators and valves (consult manufac-
turer's recommendations); and
• correct operation of air-purifying elements and carbon
monoxide or high-temperature alarms.
d. Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
• consult manufacturer's literature.
IX. RESPIRATOR USE UNDER
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
A. DANGEROUS ATMOSPHERES
If respiratory protective equipment usage in atmospheres "im-
mediately dangerous to life or health" (see page 5 tor definition) is
anticipated, special preparations must be made. A standard operat-
ing procedure for work in high hazard areas must be written.
The standard operating procedure must cover at least the follow-
ing:
• Individuals designated to enter into dangerous atmospheres
must have training with the proper equipment, i.e., self-contained
breathing apparatus (SCBA). These individuals muni be equipped
with safety harnesses and safety lines so that they can be removed
from the atmosphere if necessary.
• Designation and provision of a standby individual, equipped with
proper rescue equipment, who must be present in a m'ar6y safe area
for possible emergency rescue.
• Provision for communication between persons in the dangerous
atmosphere and the standby person must be made. Communication
may be visual or by voice, signal line, telephone, radio, or other
suitable means.
Other important data such as toxicologic information and emergen-
cy phone numbers should also be included.
B. CONFINED SPACES
Confined spaces are defined as enclosures that are usually difficult
to get out of, such as storage tanks, tank cars, boilers, sewers, tun-
nels, pipelines, and tubs. In many cases, confined spaces contain
toxic air contaminants, are deficient, in oxygen (see Appendix II), or
both. As a result, special precautions must be taken:
• Before entering a confined space, tests should be made to deter-
mine the presence and concentration of any flammable gas, toxic
airborne particulate, vapor, gas, and oxygen concentration (see Ap-
pendix I).
• If a flammable substance in the explosive range is present, the
confined space must be force ventilated to keep the concentration
well below the lower explosive limit. The concentration of contami-
nant or oxygen percent should bt; continuously monitored while in-
dividuals are working in the confined space.
• Only individuals, specially trained should be allowed to enter
confined spaces and the proper respiratory protective equipment
must be worn.
—Air-purifying respirators and airline and hose mask-type sup-
plied-air respirators may be worn in a confined space only if the
tests show that the atmosphere contains adequate oxygen and
that air contaminants are well below levels immediately danger-
ous to life or health. While individuals wearing these types of
respirators are in a confined space, the atmosphere must be
monitored continuously.
—If the atmosphere in a confined space is immediately danger-
ous to life or health due to a high concentration of air contami-
nant or oxygen deficiency, .those entering the space must wear a
positive pressure SCBA or. a combination airline and a positive
pressure self-contained .breathing respirator.
• A standby individual with proper rescue equipment, including an
SCBA, must be present outside the confined- space for possible'
emergency rescue. Communication must be maintained via voice,
signal line, telephone, etc., between individuals in the confined
space and the standby person. Those individuals inside the confined
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space must he equipped with safety harnesses and safety lines to
allow removal in/case of emergency.
C. LOW AND HIGH TEMPERATURE
Use of respiratory protective equipment in low temperatures can
create several problems. The lenses of the full facepiece equipment
may fog due to condensation of the water vapor in the exhaled
breath. Coating the inner surface of the lens with an anti-longing
compound will reduce fogging. Nose cups that direct the warm,
moist exhaled air through the exhalation valve without touching
the lens are available from the manufacturer for insertion into the
full facepiece. At low temperatures, the exhalation valve can freeze
onto the valve seat due to the moisture in the exhaled air. The user
will be aware when this situation occurs by the increased pressure
in the facepiece. When unsticking the valve, be careful so as not to
tear the rubber diaphragm.
Kespirator usage in hot environments can put additional stress on
the user. The stress can be minimized by using a light-weight
respirator with low breathing resistance. In this resf>eet, an airline
type atmosphere-supplying respirator equipped with a vortex tube
can be used. Since the vortex tube may either cool or warm the sup-
plied air (depending on the connection and setting), this protection
scheme can be used in both hot and cold environments.
X. RESPIRATORY PROTECTION
PROGRAM: SURVEILLANCE
EVALUATION
Two important aspects of the respirator program are the periodic
surveillance of the work areas requiring usage of respirators, and an
evaluation of the overall respirator program for effectiveness.
Exhibit IX illustrates a policy statement concerning program
evaluation.
24
A. SURVEILLANCE OF WORK AREA
CONDITIONS AND WORKER EXPOSURE
Many things such as changes in operation or process, implementa-
tion of engineering controls, temperature, and air movement can
affect the concentration of the substance(s) which originally re-
quired the use of respirators. To determine the continued necessity
of respiratory protection or need for additional protection,
measurements of the contaminant concentration should be made
whenever the above changes are made or detected. (See Appendix
1.) A record of these measurements should be kept.
B. PROGRAM EVALUATION
In general, the respirator program should be evaluated at least an-
nually, with program adjustments, as appropriate, made to reflect
the evaluation results. Program' function can be separated into ad-
ministration and operation.
/. I'rogram Administration
a. Is program responsibility vested in one individual who is
knowledgeable and who can coordinate all aspects of the pro-
gram?
b. What is the present status of the implementation of
engineering controls, if feasible, to alleviate the need of
respirators?
c: Are there written procedures/statements covering the
various aspects of the respirator program?
—designation of administrator;
—respirator selection;
—purchase of approved equipment;
—medical aspects of respirator usage;
—issuance of equipment;
—fitting;
—maintenance, storage, repair;
—inspection; and
—use under special condition.
25
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2.I'rogram Operation
a. Respiratory protective equipment selection
• Are work area conditions and employee exposures properly
surveyed?
• Are respirators selected on the basis of hazards to which the
employee is exposed?
• Are selections made by individuals knowledgeable of selec-
tion procedures?
b: Are only approved respirators purchased and used and do
they provide adequate protection for the specific hazard and
concentration of the contaminant?
c. Has a'medical evaluation of the prospective user been made
to determine their physical >und psychological ability to wear
respiratory protective equipment?
d. Where' practical, have.respirators been issued to the users
for their exclusive use, and are there records covering is-
suance?
e. Respiratory protective equipment fitting
• Are the users given the opportunity to try on several respira-
tors to' determine whether the respirator they will subse-
quently l>e wearing is the best fitting one?
» Is tl»e fit tested at appropriate intervals?
• Are those users who require corrective lenses properly fit-
ted?
• Are users- prohibited from wearing contact lenses when
using 'respirators?
• Is the facepiece to face seal tested in a test atmosphere?
/'. Maintenance of respiratory protective equipment
('leaning ami Disinfecting
• Are respirators cleaned and disinfected after each use when
different people use the same device, or as frequently as
necessary for devices issued to individual users?
• Are proper methods of cleaning and disinfecting utilized?
Storage
• Are respirators stored in a manner so as to protect them
from dust, sunlight, heat, excessive cold or moisture, or
damaging chemicals?
• Are respirators stored properly in a storage facility so as to
prevent them from deforming?
• Is storage in lockers and tool boxes permitted only if the
respirator is in a carrying case or carton?
Inspection '
• Are respirators inspected before and after each use.and dur-
ing cleaning? •
• Are qualified individuals/users instructed in inspection
techniques?
• Is' respiratory protective equipment designated as
"emergency use" inspected at least monthly (in addition to
after'each use)?
• Is a record kept of the inspection of "emergency use"
respiratory protective equipment?
Repair
'• Are replacement parts used in repair those of the manufac-
turer of the respirator?
• Are repairs made by knowledgeable individuals?
• Are.repairs of SGBA made only by certified |>ersonnel or by
a manufacturer's representative? •
Special Use Conditions
• Is a procedure developed for respiratory protective equip-
ment usage in atmospheres immediately dangerous to life or
health? .
• Is a procedure developed for equipment usage for entry into
confined spaces?
Training
• Are users trained in proper respirator usage?
• Are users trained in the basis for selection of respirators?
27
-------
XI. EMPLOYEE TRAINING PROGRAM
NOTES TO THE INSTRUCTOR
A. OUTLINE FORMAT
The suggested outline format allows the instructor to adapt, the
training program to the individual requirements of the farility. This
may he accomplished in the following way:
• Where indicated in the outline, record the appropriate inlorma-.
tion for your facility, e.g., in what locations of your operations are
respirators required, or which chemical exposures.necessitate'the
use of respirators?
• liefer lo specific information in the individual Appendices. For
example, one Appendix contains a discussion of the various types of
respirators available. Employees need not be aware, of all the types,
hut only the one(s) they will be required to wear. Therefore, when
the outline indicates that information from an Appendix is to be in-
serted at that point in the presentation, only that portion of the.Ap-
pendix pertinent to your facility need be covered.
B. TRAINING FORMAT
When planning the training session, remember that: trainees usually
retain only about 20 percent of what they hear, about 40 percent of
what they see, and about 70 percent of what they both see and hear.
For best results, therefore, a program of lectures, supplemented by
audiovisual materials and demonstrations, is recommended. Some
.suggestions are presented in the following text.
• Cover the material presented in the outline.
• Kreak the lecture at ,'10-4;") minute intervals to allow the trainee to
stand up and move around.
• Use blackboard, chart pad, or flip chart for emphasizing subject
sequence and major points.
• Obtain slides and/or films from the National Safety Council, your
trade association, or the manufacturer/supplier of the equipment
you use and intersperse in the presentation, as appropriate.
• Illustrate specific areas with personal experiences or examples re-
lated to your operations.
• Have examples, as appropriate, of the respirators used in your
facility available in the classroom.
• Highlight areas concerned with their operation or requirements.
• Supplement the material in this manual,by covering company
operating procedures aiid.'or instructional material supplied by the
equipment manufacturer/supplier.
C. INSTRUCTIONS TO TRAINEES
An integral part of the training program is the free exchange of.in-
formation —- and questions — between instructor and trainees.
Therefore, the following comments (made by the instructor) are
suggested at the beginning of the training session.
"During this session your full participation is needed.
• If you don't understand what's being discussed, ask questions.
• If you have been involved in 'or are aware of accidents pertain-
ing to specific areas covered, share them with us.
• If you are aware of better approaches to reduce hazardous con-
ditions, give us the benefit of your experience!
• Finally, if there is additional information or guidance we can
provide, identify the areas for us."
-------
TO
NOTES
INSTRUCTOR
EMPLOYEE TRAINING PROGRAM
A. Why is respiratory protective equipment required?
Name work area
List substances
Describe activities
Describe chemical exposure
Describe areas
Name storage areas
Describe emergency situation
which could exist in your plant
1. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
OSHA has set maximum exposure standards for many air-
borne toxic materials and has set standards governing specific
working environments to protect your health. A recent evalua-
tion of your working environment revealed that:
a. In work areas (****), atmospheric concentrations of
substances (****) were found to be above acceptable limits.
b. Maintenance activities (****) during which you are ex-
posed to (****) a high concentration for a short period of
time, lead to excessive exposure.
c. Several area's (****) were found to be "oxygen deficient."
(see Appendix II)
d. Hazardous substances are stored at (****) and if these
substances spill, etc., an emergency condition will exist, or
(****).
Suggested phraseology
Plan to have . . .
Describe what controls are to
be/being implemented
Discuss administrative controls
(rotating work schedules,
spreading work over two shifts,
etc.)
2. Status of Engineering Control*
(****) Since the company recognizes that respiratory protec-
tion is not the accepted method for control of airborne
hazards, we are taking steps to implement engineering control
solutions.
a. We (****) installed the following engineering controls
^*#*#\
b. And the following administrative controls (****).
However, while the above steps are being implemented.
respiratory protection will be required.
B. Respirator Selection and Procedure
Selection procedure of the proper equipment normally involves
three steps: the identification of the hazard: the evaluation of the
hazard; and finally the selection of the appropriate respiratory
equipment based on the first two steps.
-------
TO
NOTES
INSTRUCTOR
Discuss only those contaminant
atmospheres representing
problems in your facility. See
following discussion.
EMPLOYEE TRAINING PROGRAM
/. Identification of the Hazard
Before we get into the "specifics" about the respiratory protec-
tive equipment you will be wearing, a few statements about
hazard identification.
There are several kinds of hazardous atmospheres which may
require the use of respirators. (****)
a. Gaseous Contaminants
Gases are the normal form of substances like carbon di-
oxide or hydrogen sulfide. These substances are solids or li-
quids only at very low temperatures or extremely high pres-
sures. Carbon dioxide, for instance, is a gas at room tem-
perature. But it also occurs as solid "dry ice" formed at low
temperatures.
Vapors are exactly like gases except that they are formed by
the evaporation of substances, such as acetone or
trichlorethylene, which ordinarily occur as liquids.
b. Particulate Contaminants
Particulates are tiny particles, solid or liquid, generated by
such processes as grinding, crushing, and mixing of a com-
A further discussion of ODA's
can be found in Appendix II.
pound, either a solid or a liquid. There are three types of
particulates.
Dusts are solid particles produced by such processes as
grinding, crushing, and mixing of powder compounds. Ex-
amples are sand and plaster dust. By comparison to the
following two types of particulates, dust particles are
usually large.
Mists are tiny liquid droplets, usually formed whenever a
liquid is sprayed, vigorously mixed, or otherwise agitated.
Acid mists around diptanks used for metal cleaning, and oil
mists near newspaper printing presses, are two examples.
Fumes are solid condensation particles of extremely small
particle size. Fumes are found in the air near soldering.
welding, and brazing operations, as well as near molten
metal processes such as casting and galvanizing.
Two basic forms — gaseous and paniculate — frequently
occur together. Paint spraying operations, for example, pro-
duce both paint mist (particulate) and solvent vapors
(gases).
a. Oxygen Deficient Atmospheres (****). Oxygen deficient
atmospheres (ODA) are most commonly found in confined
spaces which have poor ventilation. Examples are silos,
petrochemical tanks, degreasers, and the holds of ships.
-------
TO
NOTES
INSTRUCTOR
After explaining to the employee
the type of hazardous
atmosphere (a and/or b and/or
c) requiring respiratory
protection, you should then
discuss the hazard specifics.
Check vendor literature,
toxicologic references, or
Material Safety Data Sheet (or
contact OSHA or NIOSH
regional offices).
See Figure I.
Refer to Appendix I to describe
the type instrument used
(optional).
See Appendix V.
EMPLOYEE TRAINING PROGRAM
2. Hazard Specifics (**•*•*)
a. Hazard Name
• Organic vapor (name)
•• Participate (name)
• Gas (name)
b. Toxicity Data (****)
• Effects
See Appendix IV.
,?. Evaluation of the Hazard (****)
a. To determine the concentration of the hazard, as iden-
tified above, measurements were made. (****) The con-
centration and/or work environment examined were com-
pared with'the published Federal Standards (****).
4. Selection of the Respirator
a. After it was determined that respirators were required.
the Standards Completion Program (SCP) was consulted
to find out the required respiratory protection equipment
(****).
C. Use and Proper Fitting of Respiratory Protective Equip-
ment
Using Appendix VII and
information supplied by the
. manufacturer, show the
employee how to put on the
selected respirator. Show the
various components of the
respirator, and how the
respirator functions to remove
the contaminants.
At this time, you should have
available at least two different
types (different manufacturers)
of selected respiratory
equipment — for the employee
to trv on.
1. Use of Respiratory Protective Equipment
2. Proper Fitting
So.that respiratory protective devices, which use tight fitting
facepieces, give-maximum protection, there must be a proper
"match" between the facepiece and your face. A poor face seal
can cause contaminants to be inhaled through the respirator
sealing surfaces, instead of through the canister, filter, or air
supply system. (****)
a. In most cases, there are several different brands of the
same type of respiratory protection equipment approved for
use against a specific hazard or work environment.-(****)
-------
a-.
NOTES
TO INSTRUCTOR
Refer to Appendix VIII for
discussion of fitting tests. The
qualitative fit tests can he used
as a quick test to ascertain the
proper fit. However, if respirator
use will be in an extremely
hazardous atmosphere, or for
emergencies, the quantitative fit
test should he used.
Demonstrate how the
qualitative fit test works. Show
illustration of a quantitative
test set-up (if there is not an
actual set-up on the premises).
EMPLOYEE TRAINING PROGRAM
b. However, just because a respirator "feels comfortable" it
does not mean that it is protecting you to the fullest extent
from the hazard. The key word is/jro/wrfit. To determine if
the fit is proper, several tests can be used. (****)
Consult Appendix VII and the
specific respiratory protective
equipment — under
Limitations.
D. Limitations of Respiratory Equipment (****)
However, the respiratory protective equipment that you will use
does have some limitations on its usage.
E. Maintenance and Storage of Respiratory Equipment
Refer to Section VII(A) for
details concerning cleaning of
equipment. Several suggested
cleaning methods are given.
Discuss provisions.
Refer to Section VII(B) and
discuss storage provisions by
company.
Refer to Section VIII for
discussion on inspection for
defects.
To maintain the proper functioning of respirators requires that
they be regularly cleaned and disinfected, and stored in a conve-
nient and clear location.
1. Cleaning (****•)
Your respiratory protective equipment should be cleaned
daily after use. The company has made provisions for doing
this. (****)
2. Storage (****}
Equipment must be stored properly at the conclusion of the
work shift.
3. Inspection for Defects /****;•
This is one of the most important functions associated with
respirator usage. These inspections can identify damage to
malfunctioning respiratory protective equipment.
-------
APPENDIX I
MECHANISMS FOR DETERMINATION
OF CONCENTRATIONS OF
HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES
Once the hazard has been recognized and the hazardous substance
identified, it is necessary to determine the amount (concentration)
of contaminant present. The company may have qualified in-
dividuals in-house to make these measurements; however, if per-
sonnel are not availabu, it is best to seek outside assistance (see Ap-
pendix V).
A. EVALUATION METHODS
If the company has individuals capable of making determinations
of the presence and concentrations of hazardous substances, there
are several types of instrumentation available which can measure
airborne contaminants. In evaluating a hazard for the purpose of
respirator selection, it is usually sufficient to obtain a close estimate
of the concentration rather than an exact level of the contaminant.
This can, in many cases, be accomplished by the use of indicator
tubes or direct-reading instruments, as opposed to collection of a
sample on a media with subsequent laboratory analysis.
1. (iaseotis and Vapor Contaminants
Gaseous contaminants are usually measured in parts per million
(ppm) — parts of contaminants /;<•/• million parts of air, or parts
of contaminants per billion parts of air (ppb). A common screen-
ing device used is the detector tube. These tubes are available for
many of the gases found in the work environment — from several
different manufacturers. If possible, only detector tubes ap-
proved by NIOSH for the specific contaminant should be used
for determination of gas and vapor concentrations. When using
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detector tubes, it is im|)ortant to remember that the sample taken
(into the tube) represents the concentration at a point in time
and place and does not necessarily reflect the 8-hour time-
weighted average (TWA) 40-hour week upon which the OSHA
limits are based. Consequently, several samples at scheduled in-
tervals through the 8-hour workday are recommended. As new
detector tubes are approved, the reader can keep up to date by re-
questing Cumulative Supplement • NlOSH Certified Equipment
(see Appendix XI). Direct-reading instruments are also available
to measure many gases and vapors.
lulu- M r;i •* U IV 111 f III l'!i| II I p Nil* III
Direct-Heading Instrument for Carbon Monoxide
40
2. ^articulate Contaminants
A majority of regulated paniculate contaminants are usually
measured in milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m ') — milligrams of
contaminant per cubic meter of air, million particles per cubic
foot (mppcf) — millions of particles per cubic feet of air, e.g.,
Smppcf would be five million particles per cubic foot of air, or
fibers per cubic centimeter (fibers/cc) — fibers of contaminant
per cubic centimeter of air. In contrast to the availability of
measuring devices for gas and vapor contaminants, few direct-
reading instruments are available for measurement of particu-
lates. Those that are available indicate the /o/o/dust or respira-
blv dust concentration and do not distinguish between the
various materials making up the total dust concentration. To
assess a specific paniculate contaminant exposure, other than
for nuisance dust, for respirator selection, in many cases it will
usually be necessary to collect a sample on a filter with subse-
quent laboratory analysis.
,'i. Oxygen Deficient Atmospheres
Tin-re are several direct-reading instruments for measurement of
oxygen content. One type is shown In-low:
Oxygen Indicator
41
-------
B. INTERPRETATION OF MEASUREMENTS
The measured concentration (in appropriate units) is then com-
pared with either the permissible exposure level (PEL), mandated
in OSHA regulations, or the threshold limit value (TLV), recom-
mended by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial
Hygenists (ACGIH). These values, as determined by these groups,
are the maximum concentration to which a worker may be exposed
day after day without adverse affects.
APPENDIX II
OXYGEN DEFICIENT ATMOSPHERES
An atmosphere that does not contain enough oxygen to support the
body metabolic process is called "oxygen deficient."
A. GENERAL PRINCIPLES
1. Normal Atmosphere
Earth's atmosphere has an essentially fixed composition of the
following gases in the dry state.
Ciaa
Nitrogen
Oxygen
Argon
Carbon Dioxide
Volume
78.09
20.95
0.93
0.04
•Normal air always contains small amounts of other gases such as
neon, helium, and krypton. Water vapor, an important constit-
uent of the normal atmosphere, may be up to 5% of the total
volume.
2. Definition nf Oxygen Deficient Atmosphere
An accurate description of an oxygen deficient atmosphere
(OI)A) is important for strictly physiological reasons and also for
proper respirator selection. However, no one definition (value)
has been universally accepted. The following table is a partial
listing nf definitions, based primarily on the volume percent -(vol.
'(' ) of the oxygen in the atmosphere at sea level.
-------
Uffinitiims of Oxygen Deficient Atmosphere
Source
Oxygen
Content
tvi>l'» ) Conditions lor Determination
At'GIH Threshold Limit Values
For 1973
Federal Regulations
:.'!» CFK Part 1915.S1
(Maritime Standards)
•J9 CF1< I'art '19111.94
i Ventilation Standards)
(Respirator Approval Testa)
ANSI Standards
/.hN.L'-llHJSI
(Kespirator 1'racticesl
18.0 ". . . under normal atmosphere
pressure ..."
lti.5
I9.r>
19.5
(not specified)
(not specified)
I)V volume at sea level
Hi.0 ". . . normal air . . ."
(Firetightingi
)9.."> ". . . where oxygen partial pressure
is less than 14Niiiin llgalsca level
K lil.l -197:1
iMarketing of air-purifying
canisters and cartridges)
1,9.;") ". . . at .sea level
Note ANSI Standard XHti.l-197'J, "Commodity Specification lor Ail," as HA i.-.rd
in October 1974, specified 19.f>-°_':j,.r> vid'i O for all grades of liicalliiiij; air.
With the "ai'ceptable" oxygen levels ranging from l()-li).5 vol'<
to choose from, the user's only guide is to follow the guidelines
listed in the regulation by which his work is governed.
3. Effects
The symptoms of oxygen deficiency depend on the oxygen con-
centration present. The table below indicates physiological
effects for varying oxygen content.
44
Kffi-cls nfl)x\grn
O,VnP.
At Si-a l:<-\i'l
l Klfect
Ili-l'J
1.1-10
Less than il
Increased hreathing volume.
Aci'elerali'd hearheat.
Impaired attention and thinking.
Impaired coordination..
Very lauh\ judgnient.
Very poor IIIU.M ul.ii coonlination.
Muscular cxi-rlion cause.s rapid tatigue
that may canst- permanent heart damage
Intermittent iopii.ition.
• Nausea.
Vomiting.
Inability to pcrlorni \'igorous movement,
or loss ot all movement.
I incoiiM-iousness, followed by dealb.
Spasmalic breathing. . •
('ulivul.MVf movements.
Death in nunuio
It is difficult to visuali/e the effect of ()1)A. The individual is not
aware of the nature of his situation. (Iradual depression of the
central nervous system affects powers ot discrimination, logic, and
auditory acuity, with muscular weakness and lack of coordination.
Since no distressful sensations are produced, the entire experience
is comfortable and even pleasant. Iivreality, however, breathing in
an ()1)A is like breathing under water.
-I.1)
-------
APPENDIX III
RESPIRATOR REQUIREMENTS AS
REQUIRED BY SPECIFIC OSHA
STANDARDS
Several standards promulgated by OSHA require the use of a
specific respirator type:
A. Abrasive Blasting
1. 1910.94 (a) (5-6)
td)(iv)
B. Spray Finishing
1. 1910.94 (c) (6) (iii)
C. Open Surface Tanks
1. 1910.94 (d) (a) (vi)
(d)(11)(v)
(d)(11) (vi)
D. Storage and Handling of Anhydrous Ammonia
1. 1910.111 (b) 110) (ii)
E. Welding, Cutting, and Bra/ing
1. 1910.252. (f) (1)
(f) (4)
(f) (5-10)
F. Pulp, Paper, and Paperboard Mills
1. 1910.261 (b)(2)
(d) tl) (i)
(g)(10)
(g) (11 ) (ii)
(f) (6» (iii) (g) (!:">) (ii)
(g) (-')
(g) (4)
(g) (6)
(g)(lo)(v)
(h) (2) liii-iv)
(ii-iii)
46
G. Textiles
1. 1910.262 (qq) (1-2)
H. Sawmills
1. 1910.265 (c) (17) (ii-iii)
I. Pulpwood Logging
1. 1910.266 (c) (1) (v)
•). Asbestos
1. 1910.1001 (d) (1-2)
K. Cotton Dust
1. 1910.104:1 (0 (2)
2. 1910.1046 (d)
L. Carcinogens
1. 1910.100;M016 (c) (4) (i
(c) (5) (i)
(c) (6) (vii) (a)
2. 1910.1017 (g) (4)
:l. 1910.1029 (g) (2)
M. (Jenerul Respirator Requirements
1. 1910.1:14
NOTK: Any of the above specific requirements may be modified or
deleted by OSHA in response to the legislative process. Ad-
ditions to the list are also possible. The reader can find out
the status of the above requirements by contacting the
nearest OSHA regional office.
47
-------
APPENDIX IV
RESPIRATOR REQUIREMENTS AS
SUGGESTED BY THE STANDARDS
COMPLETION PROGRAM AND NIOSH
CRITERIA DOCUMENTS
The Standards Completion Program (SCP), a joint OSHA/NIOSH
venture undertaken to provide additional information (toxicity,
handling requirements, sampling collection and analysis, 1'ire data,
etc.) for all presently regulated substances contained in OSHA
Standards, has also determined respiratory protection "require-
ments"* for these substances. NIOSH Criteria Documents, which
are transmitted to OSHA as recommended standards, also contain
*
respiratory protection "requirements"! for the substance in ques-
tion.
Respiratory protective equipment requirements under the SCP may
be obtained by contacting the nearest OSHA regional office (see Ap-
pendix V).
*The SCP information has not been promulgated into law and so
respirator requirements, at this time, are not required.
fNlOSH Criteria Documents are recommended standards, and do
not carry legal status.
48
APPENDIX V
SOURCES OF ASSISTANCE
Outside assistance may be required to determine the present OSHA
standard for a substance, the protective equipment requirements
suggested under the SCP, or the requirements recommended by
NIOSH Criteria Documents. In addition, if in-house qualified per-
sonnel are not available, outside assistance will be necessary to
determine the extent of employee exposure to hazardous substance.
Depending upon the employee's specific needs, several sources for
such information or services are available: (a) Occupational Safety
and Health Administration (OSHA-DOL); (b) National Institute
for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH-DHEW); (c) State Oc-
cupational Safety and Health Programs; and (d) private consul-
tants.
The following code system indicates which information or services
can be obtained from a particular source:
CODE
#1
#2
#:i
#4
INFORMATION
OSHA Standards
SCP Requirements
Criteria Document Recommendation
Consultative Services
A. OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH
ADMINISTRATION
Information/Services Available: #1, #2
Persons may call the nearest OSHA regional office to obtain
respiratory protective information. (This will not result in a citation
or inspection.) Federal OSHA personnel cannot make on-site con-
sultative visits; however, Federal OSHA has contracted with sev-
49
-------
eral educational institutions to perform on-site consultative ser-
vices — without citation. Contact the OSHA regional office for in-
formation' concerning these services.
USHA REGIONAL OFFICES
Region I
I' S Department of Labor
O< i upaiionid Safety and Health Administration
|FK Hmlitinx. Room 1804
Huston Massai.husells ll^^():i
Region II
\' S Department of Labor
(K i upational Safety and Heahh Administration
IMS Hroadway |1 Aslor Plaza) Room 11445
Men York New York. lOOHH . . .
Regiun 111
I1 S Department of Labor
Ot(.iipationitl Safely and Health Administration
ISU^l) Gateway Cenier :i5.15 Market Street
I'l.iladelph.a Pennsylvania 19104
Region IV
I! S Department of Labor
(Kiopational Safety and Health Administration
i:<"S I'earhlree Street N K Suite 5K7
Allanla Ouryia 'UKIOH . .
Region V
t" S Department of Labor
()i i upalional Safety and Health Administration
J to >. Dearborn .l^nd Kloor
(.hit .ii>'i. Illinois IUH.1I4
Region VJ
I' s Department of Labor
< >i i op.itiohal Sali'ty and Health Administration
W, (.ntfin Si|u.irr lluil.lu.n Koom Wl^
Dallas Texas 7KU2
Region VII
1' S Di-partnii nt of Labor •
()i t .ipatmnal Safety lininistralion
hidel.il HudiliiiK Koom 1SIIKI 191.1 Stout Street
Denser ( nli'.rad" MUJIU
Region IX
I' S Department of Labor
t li i up.iiiuiial Safeix .tod Health Administration
',4-tl Ked.-r.d liiilldinv 4MI (Golden C.ale Avenue
I',,si ( iffn e llox 11,1117
S.in Kraiuisio (lalifornia '.14 Hll'
Region X
I ' *i Drp.illllielll of Lilbor
(I, i upalional Safetv and Health Administration
I.IHtl Keder.il Offne lluildlllx -My Kllst Avenue
Seattle \\aShinKloll >4HI74
Telephone: l
Telephone 212/971-Smi/^
Telephone- 2iri/r.9ti-l^n
Telephone 404/.r.^(i-:i57:t/4 or U^M
Telephone :ilj.;'lfi I 4? Hi/
Telephone II 14'74!l-J47T.'H/'l or Jf.l
Ti lephone llli.; i~4 SHI.I
Telephone 4 l.'i.'.Vili.lIMM
Tel,•phone Jllli<44-J.ri!l III
B. NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH
Information/Services Available:
Persons may contact NIOSH regional offices to obtain technical in-
formation about respiratory protective equipment.
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C. STATE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND
HEALTH PROGRAMS
Information/Services Available: #1, #4.
Employers who are interested in the following services but do not
know which state agency provides which service, should contact the
nearest OSHA or NIOSH regional office for information.
51
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1. State with Approved OSHA Plan
Presently, all states which have an approved OSHA plan, except
Utah, have a consultative service program. This program, which
is separate from the compliance program, provides on-site con-
sultation to employers requesting assistance. Such consultations
will not result in a citation or penalty.
2. States under Agreement with OSHA to Provide
Consultative Service
Several states that do not have an OSHA plan have elected to
enter into an agreement with OSHA to provide consultation.
This program, conducted by an' agency designated by the gover-
nor of each state, provides on-site consultation to employers re-
questing assistance. Such consultations will not result in a cita-
tion or penalty.
D. PRIVATE CONSULTATIVE SERVICES
Information/Service Available: #4
A list of consultants can be obtained by writing the American In-
dustrial Hygiene Associates; 475 Wolf Ledges Parkway; Akron,
Ohio 4-4311. .
APPENDIX VI
MEDICAL ASPECTS OF RESPIRATORY
EQUIPMENT USAGE
A. GENERAL INFORMATION
So that the examining physician can render a qualified opinion
regarding respirator usage by an employee, the physician, initially,
should obtain from the employer the following information.
• Type of respiratory protection equipment to be used, and its
modes of operation;
• The tasks that the employer will perform while wearing the
respirator;
• Kstimation of the energy requirements of the task (see Table 1);
• Visual and audio requirements associated with the task;
• Length of time that the user will wear the respiratory protective
equipment; and
• The suhstuncf(s) to which the employee will be exposed, and the
related toxicity data.
B. MEDICAL TESTS
The following medical tests might be considered by the examining
physician in Ins/her evaluation:
• Pulmonary function test;
— FVC
-FKV,
• Chest X-ray;
• Electrocardiogram;
-------
• Blood tests;
• Eye test;
• Hearing test;
• Observation of the fit of the respirator on the employee; and
• Medical tests specific to the substance to which the employee will
be exposed.
TABLK 1
Some Selected Types of Work Classed According to Kstimated Workload
Level*
\\'urktoad Energy expenditure runtfv
Level 1 — Resting 100 kcal/hr or less
Level 2 — Light 101 to 200 kual/hr
Sitting at eu.sv: light hand work (writing, typing, drafting, sewing,
bookkeeping); hand and ami work (small bench tools, inspecting, as-
sembly or Mining of light materials); arm and leg work (driving car
under average conditions, operating foot switch or pedal).
Stnnilina: drill press (small parts); milling machine (small parts); coil
taping; small armature winding; machining with light power tools;
ca.iual walking (up to - mph).
Level :j — Moderate 201 to :IOO kcal/hr
Hand and arm work (nailing, tiling); arm and leg work (off road
operation ot trucks, tractors or construction equipment); arm and
truck work (air hammer operation, tractor assembly, plastering, inter-
mittent handling of moderately heavy materials, weeding, hoeing,
picking fruits or vegetables); pushing or pulling light-weight carts or
wheelbarrows; walking 2-1) mph.
Level 4 — Heavy Above JOI kcal hr
Heavy arm and truck work; transferring heavy materials; shoveling;
.-.ledge hammer work; sawing, planing or chiseling hardwood; hand
mowing, digging, ax work; climbing stairs or ramps; jugging, running,
walking faster than 4 mph; pushing or pulling heavily loaded hand
cart* or wheelbarrow.-.; chipping castings; concrete block laying.
" Kur accurate determination ol a worker's energy expenditure on the
job by measuring oxygen uptake of the man. refer to "Krgonomics
1'iuides." American Intliistniil Hygiene Association Journal, 1)2 (M);
Aug. 1971. p. ytitl-:")ti4.
54
C. MEDICAL FACTORS
Some factors to be considered by the examing physician in deter-
mining the prospective user's ability to wear a respirator are:
• Emphysema — individual may be unable to breathe adequately
against the additional resistance of a respirator;
• Asthma — if the user suffers an asthma attack he would be likely
to remove the respirator because of being unable to breath properly;
• Chronic bronchitis;
• Heart disease;
• Anemia;
• Hemophilia;
• Poor eyesight;
• Poor hearing;
• Hernia — can be aggravated by wearing/carrying respiratory pro-
tective equipment (SCBA);
• Lack of use of fingers or hands — respirators such as gas masks,
supplied-air respirators, and self-contained breathing apparatus re-
quire connection and disconnection of parts and manipulation of
valves and fittings during use. Persons with missing or disabled
fingers may have difficulty in using these devices, particularly in an
emergency where there is no one present to assist them; and
• Epileptic seizures.
D. EMOTIONAL/MENTAL FACTORS
Mental factors must also be taken into consideration when
employees are required to wear respirators. Some individuals
become claustrophobic when wearing a respirator. These in-
dividuals should not be required to wear respirators if the condition
is severe enough to cause panic.
E. OTHER FACTORS
Scars, hollow temples, very prominent cheekbones, deep skin
creases, and lack of teeth or dentures may cause respirator facepiece
55
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sealing problems. Dentures or missing teeth may cause problems in
sealing a mouthpiece in a person's mouth. Full dentures should be
retained when wearing a respirator, but partial dentures may or
may not have to be removed, depending upon the possibility of
swallowing them. With full lower dentures, problems in fitting
quarter-masks can be expected, as the lower part of the mask tends
to unseat the denture.
56
APPENDIX VII
RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT
I. AIR-PURIFYING — PARTICULATE
REMOVING FILTER RESPIRATORS
A. Description
These are generally called "dust," "mist," or "fume" respira-
tors, and by a "filtering" action remove particulates before they
can be inhaled.
/. Single-use, dust
Single-Use Respirator
57
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The single-use respirator is a respirator which is completely
disposed of after use. They are for individual use and should
l>e discarded when resistance becomes excessive or the respira-
tor is damaged. Generally, these respirators are approved only
for pneumoconiosis or fibrosis producing dust such as coal
dust, silica dust, and asbestos.
2. Quarter-monk dust and mint, half-mask dust and mist
The quarter-mask covers the mouth and nose; the half-mask
fits over the nose and under the chin. The half-mask usually
produces a better facepiece to face seal than does the quarter-
mask and is therefore preferred for use against more toxic
materials. Dust and mist respirators are designed for protec-
tion against dusts and mists whose TLV is greater than
.05mg/M:i or 2 mppcf.
Quartcr-ma.sk Kcspirutor
3. Quarter-mask fume; half-mask fume
These masks, similar to those in 2 above, utilize a filter ele-
ment which can remove metal fumes in addition to dusts and
mists from the inhaled air. The filters are approved for metal
fumes having a TLV o6oc9
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6'. Powered dust, mist, and fume respirators
These respirators use a blower that passes the contaminated
air through the cartridge or canister where the contaminant is
removed and passes the purified air into the facepiece. The air
purifying element can be a filter to remove particulates, a
cartridge or canister to remove gases or vapors, or a combina-
tion to remove both. The face covering can be a half-mask,
full-face mask, or hood or helmet.
Powered Air-Purifying Respirator — Front View
The advantage to using a powered air-purifying respirator is
that it supplies air at a positive pressure within the facepiece,
hood, or helmet, so that any leakage is outward. The protec-
tion provided depends on the air-purifying element and the
type and concentration of the contaminants.
60
Powered respirators must deliver at least 4 cubic feet per
minute (cfm) to a tight fitting facepiece such as a mask and at
least 7 cfm to a loose fitting helmet or hood. If the powered
respirator is battery operated, it should provide the airflows
mentioned for at least 4 hours without having to recharge the
battery.
Powered Air-Purifying Respirator — Buck View
H. Approvals
N1OSH approves air-purifying and powered air-purifying partic-
ulaie removing respirators to protect the wearer against one or
more of the following hazards:
• Uust exposure, where the OSHA allowable daily exposure for
the dust is not less than O.U5mg/M ';
(il
-------
• Mist exposure, where the OSHA allowable daily exposure for
the mist is not less than 0.05 mg/M:i or 2 mppcf;
• Metal fume exposure, where the OSHA allowable daily ex-
posure for the fume is not less than 0.05 mg/M-1;
• Dust, fume and mist exposure, where the OSHA allowable
daily exposure for the dust, fume, or mist is less than 0.05 mg/M';
• Exposure to radon daughters (radioactive material) and
radon daughters attached to dusts, fumes, and mist;
• Exposure to asbestos containing dusts or mists; and
• Exposure to dusts or mists which cause the formation of scar
tissue in the lungs (pneumoconiosis and fibrosis producing).
NOTE: No approved dust, fume, or mist respirator can be worn
with the "facelets" or other cloth or plastic cover be-
tween the facepiece and face. These covers introduce
excessive leakage, and also negate the approval.
('. Limitations
1. Air-purifying respirators do not provide oxygen, so they
must never be worn in oxygen deficient atmospheres.
'2. Paniculate removing air-purifying respirators offer no pro-
tection against atmospheres containing contaminant gases or
vapors.
3. These respirator types should not be used for abrasive blast-
ing operations.
D. Problems
1. The air flow resistance of a particulate-removing respirator
filter element increases as the quantity of particles it retains
increases, thus increasing the breathing resistance. .4.s a rule of
thumb, when comfortable breathing is impaired because of
dust build-up, the filter should be replaced.
2. Performance of some filter materials is affected by open
storage in very humid atmospheres. Care should be taken in
storing filter elements.
62
II. AIR-PURIFYING — CHEMICAL
CARTRIDGE AND CANISTER RESPIRATORS,
GAS AND VAPORS
A. Description
Vapor and gas-removing respirators use cartridges or canisters
containing chemicals to trap or react with specific vapors and
gases and remove them from the air breathed. The basic
difference between a cartridge and a canister is the volume of the
sorbent. Generally, a "cartridge" refers to a chemical filtering
element which attaches directly to the facepiece, whereas a
"canister" refers to the chemical filter element held in a harness
and which is connected to the facepiece via a corrugated
breathing tube. Some typical cartridge and canister respirators
are discussed below.
'//////////
V \\ \\JZ
i>7/
//////////
/J \V \\
///i
'I ypirul Chemical Curtritlgt
1. Half-mask ana" (quarter-mask respirators
These are available for protection against single chemicals
such as ammonia or against entire classes such as organic
Vapors. Be sure to read the label on the cartridge or canister
since it tells what the cartridge or canister protects against,
what the maximum concentration in which the element can be
used, and in some instances, the service life or expiration date
of the element.
63
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2. Full face piece
The full facepiece respirator may use a canister or cartridge(s)
as the protective element. The front, back, and chin-mounted
full-facepiece canister respirators are also referred to as "gas
masks."
H. Approvals
NIOSH approves chemical cartridge or canister respirators to
protect the wearer against many of the organic vapors, acid
gases, and gaseous contaminants encountered in the work en-
vironment. Consult with a manufacturer or distributor of
respiratory protective equipment to determine what type of
cartridge or canister is appropriate for the contaminant and con-
centration.
('. Limitations— Chemical Cartridge or Canister
1. These respirators do not supply oxygen, so they must never
be ivorn in oxygen deficient atmospheres.
2. They must not be used if the chemical to be protected
against lacks adequate warning properties — odor, taste, or ir-
ritation, unless their use is permitted by applicable OSHA or
MHSA standards. Warnings such as these are necessary to
alert you that the sorbent is saturated, and the contaminant is
passing through the cartridge or canister, and you are
breathing contaminated air.
3. They must not be used in atmospheres immediately danger-
ous to life or health, except for escape.
4. They provide protection only from the specific gases or
vapors they were designed to protect against (they may be
worthless for other gases or vapors).
III. ATMOSPHERE SUPPLYING
RESPIRATORS — SUPPLIED-AIR
Atmosphere supplying respirators, rather than removing the
hazardous material from the air, exclude the workplace air
altogether and provide clean air from an independent source. There
are two kinds of atmosphere supplying respirators: a supplied-air
respirator m which the user is supplied with respirable air through
a hose, and a self-contained respirator in which the user carries a
supply of respirable air.
A. Description — Supplied-air Respirator
Supplied-air respirators use a central source of breathing air that
is delivered to the wearer through an air supply line or hose.
There are essentially two major groups of supplied-air respira-
tors — the airline device and the hose mask with or without a
blower.
/. Airline Devices .
The distinction of airline devices is that they use a stationary
source of compressed air delivered through a high-pressure
hose. Airline devices can be equipped with half- or full-face
masks, helmets, or hoods, or the device can come as a com-
plete suit. Airline respirators can be used for protection
against either particulates, gases, or vapors. They provide a
high degree of protection against these contaminants but they
cannot be used in atmospheres immediately dangerous to life
or health because the user is completely dependent on the in-
tegrity of the air supply hose and the air source. If something
happens to either the hose or air supply, he cannot escape from
the contaminated area without endangering his life.
A great advantage of the airline respirator is that it can be
used for long continuous periods. There are three types of
airline respirators.
a. Demand Airline Device
In a demand device, the air enters the facepiece only on "de-
mand" of the wearer, i.e., when the person inhales. This is due
to the nature of the valve and pressure regulator. An example
of a demand, half-mask airline device is shown below.
During inhalation there is a negative pressure in the mask, so
if there is leakage, contaminated air may enter the mask and
be breathed by the user. The leakage problem is a major
drawback of the demand device. Demand devices are also
available with a full-face mask, which provides a better seal
than does the half-mask.
65
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b. Pressure Demand Airline Devices
The pressure demand device has a regulator and valve design
such that there is a continuous flow (until a fixed static pres-
sure is attained) of air into the facepiece at all times, regard-
less of the "demand" of the user. The airflow into the mask
creates a positive pressure outward. As such, there is no prob-
lem of contaminant leakage into the facepiece. This is a sig-
nificant advantage of this type of device.
c. Continuous-flow Airline Device
The continuous-flow airline respirator maintains a constant
airflow at all times and doesn't use a regulator, hut uses an
airflow control valve or orifice which regulates the flow of air.
A continuous-flow full facepiece device is shown below.
The continuous-flow device creates a "positive" pressure in
the facepiece, and as a result, does not have the problem of in-
ward leakage of contaminant.
66
A special type of continuous-flow device that provides protec-
tion against flying particles of abrasive materials is also avail-
able. The abrasive blasting airline respirator, shown below in-
corporates a loose fitting facepiece.
67
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B. Approvals
1. Airline Devices
Airline supplied air respirators are approved for use at a
specific air pressure (at the point of attachment of the air-sup-
ply hose to the air-supply system) and a specific range of air
supply hose length. For example, a supplied air respirator
might be approved for use with compressed air at pressures
from 40-80 pounds per square inch and with air-supply hose
length of between 15 and 250 feet. Approvals are not made for
specific contaminants.
2. Hose Mask Devices
An approved hose mask with a blower may have up to 300 feet
of air supply hose in multiples of 25 feet, but one without a
blower may have only up to 75 feet in multiples of 25 feet. The
hand- or motor-operated blower must deliver at least 50 liters
per minute (1pm) of air through the maximum length of hose.
C. Limitations
1. Airline Devices
a. These devices must not be used in atmospheres immediately
dangerous to life or health since the user is dependent upon an
air hose which, if cut, crushed, or damaged, leaves him with
little or no protection.
b. The trailing air supply hose of the airline respirator severely
restricts the wearer's mobility. This may make the airline
respirator unsuitable for those who must move frequently be-
tween widely separated work stations.
2. Hose Mask
a. The hose mask with a blower cannot be used in atmospheres
immediately dangerous to life or health because the low air
volume flow may result in a negative pressure being produced
in the mask during inhalation allowing contaminated air to
leak into the mask. Also, if the air hose is cut or obstructed,
the user will be unprotected.
6. The trailing air supply hose of the hose mask severely limits
mobility, so it may be unsuitable if frequent movement among
separated work stations is required.
c. A severe restriction of the hose mask without a blower is
that it is limited to a maximum hose length of 75 feel. Also, it
70
requires the wearer to inhale against the resistance to air flow
offered by the air hose which may become significant during
heavy work. Inhaling against this resistance may cause
fatigue.
IV. ATMOSPHERE SUPPLYING RESPIRATORS
— SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING
APPARATUS (SCBA)
The self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) allows the user to
carry a respirable breathing supply with him/her, and does not need
a stationary air source such as a compressor to provide breathable
air. The air supply may last from 3 minutes to 4 hours depending on
the nature of the device.
Srlf-coiiluincd Ureiithing Apparatus (SC'HA)
A. Description — SCHA
1. Closed Circuit SCBA
Another name for closed circuit SCBA is "rebreathing"
device. The air is rebreatlu-d after the exhaled carbon dioxide
has been removed and the oxygen content restored by a com-
71
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pressed oxygen source or an oxygen-generating solid. These
devices are designed primarily for 1-4 hour use in toxic at-
mospheres. Because negative pressure is created in the
facepiece during inhalation, there is increased leakage poten-
tial. Therefore, the devices should be used in atmospheres im-
mediately hazardous to life and health only when their long-
term use is necessary, as in mine rescue. Two types of closed
circuit SCBA are available.
a. Compressed Oxygen Cylinder Type
In this device, breathable air is supplied from an inflatable
bag. Exhaled air from the wearer is filtered to remove carbon
dioxide and the oxygen consumed is replenished from an oxy-
gen cylinder.
b. Oxygen-generating Type
This type of closed circuit SCBA uses an oxygen-generating
solid which, when mixed with water vapor and carbon dioxide
in the exhaled breath, or when burned (a chlorate candle), re-
leases oxygen. The oxygen then passes to the inflatable bag.
This closed circuit apparatus is lighter, simpler, and cheaper
than the cylinder type. However, it is useful for only about 1
hour and, once initiated, cannot be turned off.
Oxygen-generating SCUA (closed circuit)
72
2. Open Circuit SCBA
An open circuit SCBA exhausts the exhaled air to the at-
mosphere instead of recirculating it. A tank of compressed air
carried on the back supplies air via a regulator to the
facepiece. Because there is no recirculation of air, the service
life of the open circuit SCBA is shorter than a closed circuit
system. Two types of open circuit SCBA are available, "de-
mand" or "pressure demand."
a. Demand SCBA
In a demand SCBA, air flows into the facepiece only on "de-
mand of the wearer," i.e., when the person inhales. This is due
to the nature of the valves and pressure regulator. An example
of a demand open circuit is show below. During inhalation
there is a negative pressure in the mask, so if there is leakage,
contaminated air can enter the mask and be breathed by the
user. The leakage problem is a major drawback of the demand
device. Because of this problem, a demand type open circuit
SCBA should not be used in atmospheres immediately dan-
gerous to life or health.
b. Pressure Demand SCBA
The pressure demand open circuit SCBA has a regulator and
valve design which maintains a positive pressure in the
facepiece at all times regardless of the "demand" of the user.
As such, there is no problem of contaminant leakage into the
facepiece. This is a significant advantage of the pressure de-
mand device. A pressure demand SCBA is identical in ap-
pearance to a demand SCBA, but has a different regulator as-
sembly and facepiece exhalation valve design.
3. Combination Atmosphere Supplying Respirator: Supplied
Air and SCBA
Designed primarily as a long duration device, this respirator
combines an airline respirator with an auxiliary air supply
(usually compressed air) to protect against the possible failure
of the primary air supply (the airline). The additional supply
can be approved for 15 minutes or even longer. The choice de-
pends upon how long it would take to escape from the toxic at-
mosphere if the primary air supply failed.
B. Approvals — All SCBA's
Because they provide a respirable breathing supply, all SCBA's
(closed circuit, open circuit) may be used in oxygen deficient at-
73
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muspheres as well as against particulates, vapors, and gases.
However, approvals for SCBA's are based on: (1) entering into
and escaping from; (2) escape only, from a hazardous at-
mosphere (oxygen deficient or contaminated), and (3) the work
setting. If you have to use an SCBA, check the approval label to
ascertain the conditions of use.
Combination Atmosphere Supplying Respirator: Supplied Air and SI'HA
(.'. Limitations
1. The air supply is limited to the amount in the cylinder
(SCBA's using a compressed air tank) and therefore the
respirator cannot be used for extended periods without
recharging or replacing the cylinders.
2. Because these respirators are bulky and heavy, they are
often unsuitable for strenuous work or use in confined spaces.
3. Because of the short service time of the auxiliary air supply,
the escape portion of the combination unit can be used only for
escape from atmospheres immediately hazardous to life or
74
health unless the escape portion has a minimum of 15 minutes
service life. Such devices can then be used for entry in IDLH
atmospheres provided not more than 20% of the available
breathing supply is used. These devices may always be used
for entry into IDLH atmospheres when utilized with the exter-
nal air supply.
75
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APPENDIX VIII
RESPIRATOR FIT TESTS
The proper fitting of respiratory protective equipment requires the
use of some type of fit test. The fit test is needed to determine a
proper match between the facepiece of the respirator and face of the
wearer.
A. TEST ATMOSPHERES
Regulations require that the user be allowed to test the facepiece to
face seal of the respirator and wear it in a test atmosphere. The test
atmosphere amounts to an enclosure in which 1) the user can enter
with the equipment on, and 2) a "test" contaminant (of low tox-
icity) can be placed. While elaborate enclosures are available com-
mercially, the employer can put together a "do it yourself qualita-
tive fit test enclosure by the use of a plastic bag (a dry cleaning bag),
several hangers, and some cotton. Figure 3 shows this enclosure
scheme.
B. TEST METHODS
There are two types of tests: qualitative tests and. quantitative tests.
The use of one or both types of tests depends on, among other con-
siderations, the severity and extent of the respiratory hazard, and
the size of the company. During any fitting test, the respirator
headstraps must be as comfortable as possible. Tightening the
straps will sometimes reduce facepiece leakage, but the wearer may
be unable to tolerate the respirator for any length of time.
76
TEST ENCLOSURE
Hangers
Cotton Wad
Test Hole
Plastic Bag
Figure 3
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/. Qualitative Tests
Qualitative tests are fast, require no complicated expensive
equipment, and are easily performed. However, these tests rely
on the wearer's subjective response, and so are not entirely relia-
ble. There are two major qualitative tests:
o. Isoamyl Acetate Test
Isoamyl acetate, a low toxicity substance with a banana like
odor, is used widely in testing the facepiece fit organic vapor
cartridge/canister respirators. The substance is applied to the
cotton wad inside the enclosure (see Figure 3). The perspective
user should put on the respiratory protection equipment in an
area away from the test enclosure so that there is no prior con-
tamination of the cartridges on "pre-exposure" to the isoamyl
acetate. The user should perform the following:
• Normal breathing.
• Deep breathing, as during heavy exertion. This should not
be done long enough to cause hyperventilation.
• Side-to-side and up-and-down head movements. These
movements should be exaggerated, but should approximate
those that take place on the job.
• Talking. This is most easily accomplished by reading a pre-
pared text loudly enough to be understood by someone stand-
ing nearby.
• Other exercises may be added depending upon the situation.
For example, if the wearer is going to spend a significant part
of his time bent over at some task, it may be desirable to in-
clude an exercise approximating this bending.
The major drawback of the iosamyl acetate test is that the
odor threshold varies widely among individuals. Further-
more, the sense of smell is easily dulled and may deteriorate
during the test so that the wearer can detect only high vapor
concentrations. Another disadvantage is that isoamyl acetate
smells pleasant, even in high concentrations. Therefore, a
wearer may say that the respirator fits although it has a large
leak. This is usually because the wearer likes the fit of the par-
ticular respirator or is following the respirator selection of
someone else. Conversely, a wearer may claim that a particu-
lar respirator leaks if it is uncomfortable, etc. Therefore,
unless the worker is highly motivated toward wearing respira-
tors, the results of this test must sometimes be suspect.
78
b. Irritant Smoke Test
The irritant smoke test, similar to the isoamyl acetate test in
concept, is used widely in testing the facepiece fit of particular
filter respirators. This test can be used for both air-purifying
and atmosphere-supplying respirators, but an air-purifying
respirator must have a high-efficiency filter(s). The test sub-
stance is an irritant (stannic chloride or titanium
tetrachloride) which is available commercially in sealed glass
tubes. When the tube ends are broken and air passed through
them (usually with a squee/e bulb), a dense irritating smoke is
emitted. In this test, the user steps into the test enclosure and
the irritant smoke is "sprayed" into the test hole. If the user
detects any of the irritant smoke, it means a defective fit, and
adjustments or replacement of the respirator is required. The
irritant smoke test must he performed u'ith caution because
the aerosol is highly irritating to the eyes, skin, and mucous
membrane. As a qualitative means of determining respirator
fit, this test has a distinct advantage in that the wearer usually
reacts involuntarily to leakage by coughing or sneezing. The
likelihood of giving a false indication of proper fit is reduced.
r
Irritant Siiiokt- I i-st
7!)
-------
c. Negative Pressure Test
Thin test (and the positive pressure test) should be used only
as a very gross determination of fit. The wearer should use this
test just before entering the hazardous atmosphere. In tlm
test, the user closes off the inlet of the canister, cartridge(s), or
filte'r(s) by covering with the palm(s) or squeezing the
breathing tube so that it does not pass air; inhales gently so
that the facepiece collapses slightly; and holds breath for
about 10 seconds.
If the facepiece remains slightly collapsed and no inward
leakage is detected, the respirator is probably tight enough.
This test, of course, can only be used on respirators with tight-
fitting facepieces. .
Although this test is simple, it has severe drawbacks; pri-
marily that the wearer must handle the respirator after it has
supposedly been positioned on his face. This handling can
modify the facepiece seal.
Negative Pressure Test
80
d. Positive Pressure Test
This test, similar to the negative pressure test, is conducted by
closing off the exhalation valve and exhaling gently into the
facepiece. The fit is considered satisfactory if slight positive
pressure can be built up inside the facepiece without any evi-
dence of outward leakage. For some respirators, this method
requires that the wearer remove the exhalation valve cover;
this often disturbs the respirator fit even more than does the
negative pressure test. Therefore, this test should be used
sparingly if it requires removing and replacing a valve cover.
The test is easy for respirators whose valve cover has a single
small port that can be closed by the palm or a finger.
2. Quantitative Tests
Quantitative respirator performance tests involve placing the
wearer in an atmosphere containing an easily detectable, re-
latively nontoxic gas, vapor, or aerosol. The atmosphere inside
the respirator is sampled continuously through a probe in the
respiratory-inlet covering. The leakage is expressed as a percen-
tage of the test atmosphere outside the respirator, called ''per-
cent of penetration," or simply "penetration." The greatest ad-
vantage of a quantitative test is that it indicates respirator fit
numerically,'and does not rely on a subjective response. The
quantitative fit test is highly recommended when facepiece
leakage must be minimized for work in highly toxic atmospheres
or those immediately dangerous to life or health. However, these
tests require expensive (up to $10,000) equipment that can be
operated only by highly trained personnel. Also, it is difficult to
use because of its complexity and bulk. Each test respirator must
be equipped with a sampling probe to allow continual removal of
an air sample from the facepiece so the same facepiece cannot be
worn in actual service, since the test orifice negates the approval
of the respirator.
a. Sodium Chloride (NuCl) Test
In this test, a liquid aerosol is generated continuously from a
salt water solution (using a nebulizer), dried to produce dis-
crete submicron salt particles, and dispersed into a test cham-
ber or hood. A means is provided for sampling the atmosphere
in the chamber or hood and inside the respirator. These sam-
ples are fed to the analyzing section where the aerosol's
81
-------
penetration inside the respirator is determined. The amount of
penetration is displayed on a meter or recorder.
6. Dioctyl Phthalate (DOP) Test
The dioctyl phthalate (DOP) quantitative fitting test, which
uses an air-generated DOP aerosol, differs from the NaCl test
only in that the aerosol particle is liquid. The aerosol is gener-
ated using a nozzle-type atomizer, but, being an oil, DOP does
not dry into solid particles when injected into a diluting air
stream.
APPENDIX IX
LIST OF EXHIBITS
EXHIBIT I
COMPANY
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM
Policy Statement: A respiratory protection program is hereby
established so as to coordinate the use and maintenance of
respiratory protective equipment as determined necessary to (1)
reduce employee exposure to toxic chemical agents; and (2) allow
employees to work safely in hazardous work environments, e.g.,
sand blasting and oxygen deficient atmospheres.
I. DESIGNATION OF PROGRAM
ADMINISTRATOR
Management has designated
to he responsible for the respiratory program at this facility. He/she
has been delegated authority by top management to make decisions
and implement changes in the respirator program anywhere in this
facility.
has been charged with
the following responsibilities:
A. Supervision of respirator selection procedure;
B. Establishment of training sessions about respiratory equipment
for employees;
83
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C. Establishment of a continuing program of cleaning and inspec-
tion of equipment;
D. Designation of proper storage areas for respiratory equipment;
E. Establishment of issuance and accounting procedures for uses ol
respiratory equipment;
F. Establishment of medical screening program/procedures for
employees assigned to wear respiratory equipment;
G. Establishment of a periodic inspection schedule of those
workplaces/conditions — requiring respiratory equipment — to
determine exposure and/or changing situations; and
H. A continuing evaluation of the above aspects to assure their con-
tinued functioning and effectiveness.
Any questions or problems concerning respirators or their use
should be addressed to
EXHIBIT II
COMPANY
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM
Policy Statement: Management is concerned not only with meet-
ing federal and/or state regulations, but also maintaining employee
health.
II. PROCEDURE FOR SELECTION OF
RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
A. Evaluation of the Hazard
Surveys of employee groups and/or processes pertinent to
company operations shall be conducted by
84
_, Safety Director,
Com-
pany. The Hazard Evaluation Form shall be used in the forma-
tion of a decision to implement the use of respiratory protective
equipment.
B. The Selection of Respiratory Protective Equipment
Upon completion of the walk-thru survey, the Safety Director, in
consultation with the Vice-President-Engineering, shall review
the results to determine the feasibility of engineering and/or ad-
ministrative control techniques.
The Industrial Hygienist shall submit monthly reports to the
Vice-President-Engineering as to the status of development of
engineering controls,'if required.
EXHIBIT III
COMPANY
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM
III. PURCHASE OF RESPIRATORY
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
The program administrator .shall have authority to purchase
respiratory protective equipment. Respiratory equipment shall
be selected only from current N10SH approved listings.
-------
EXHIBIT IV
COMPANY
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM
IV. MEDICAL ASPECTS OF RESPIRATORY
EQUIPMENT USAGE
Policy Statement: Only those individuals who are medically
able to wear respiratory protective equipment shall be issued
one.
EXHIBIT V
COMPANY
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM
V. ISSUANCE OB1 RESPIRATORY
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Policy Statement: All individuals who are assigned to wear
respiratory protective equipment shall be provided respiratory
protective equipment for their exclusive use.
A system of respiratory wearer cards and journals shall be estab-
lished to facilitate the accounting of users and equipment. The
following user card and journal scheme has been adopted by
COMPANY.
86
The program administrator shall approve the issuance of all
respirators and/or respiratory protective equipment.
RESPIRATOR USER CARD
CARD NUMBER
NAME
OPERATION
CONTAMINANTS/HAZARD PROCESS
RESPIRATOR TYPE
DATE OF ISSUANCE
DATE OF EXPIRATION
APPROVED BY
87
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EXHIBIT VI
. COMPANY
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM
VI. FITTING PROCEDURES FOR
RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Policy Statement: The proper fitting of respiratory equipment to
the user shall follow one or more methods as outlined in Appendix
VIII in the NIOSH Employer Respirator Manual, or as stated in
other equivalent publications.
EXHIBIT VII
COMPANY
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM
VII. RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE
Policy Statement: Respiratory equipment maintenance and
storage shall be carried out in accordance with the instructions of
the equipment manufacturer (and/or guidelines established by the
NIOSH Employer Respirator Manual).
89
-------
EXHIBIT VIII
COMPANY
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM
VIII. INSPECTION PROCEDURES
Policy Statement: The program administrator shall develop a
field inspection checklist for respiratory protective equipment. (The
checklist, as itemized in the NIOSH Employer Manual, may be
used as a guideline.) The administrator shall institute a continuing
review of the inspection procedure so as to cover all uses of
respiratory protective equipment at COMPANY.
EXHIBIT IX
COMPANY
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM
IX. PROGRAM EVALUATION
Policy Statement: The program administrator shall develop a
procedure to evaluate the effectiveness of the program. Program
review shall be done on a continuing basis. (Program review aspects
may follow guidelines suggested by the NIOSH Employer Manual.)
90
APPENDIX X
REFERENCES
1. A Guide to Industrial Respiratory Protection. NIOSH pub
76-189.
2. NIOSH Certified Equipment, December 15, 1975. NIOSH pub
76-145.
3. NIOSH Cumulative Supplement, June 1977. NIOSH pub 77-195.
4. Respiratory Protection: OSHA and the Small Businessman, W.
E. Ruch and. B. H. Held (available from Ann Arbor Science
Publishers, Inc., P.O. Box 1425, Ann Arbor, Michigan 45106).
91
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APPENDIX XI
READER SERVICE CARD
The continued effective use of this manual will require the user
to keep abreast of new developments in the field of respiratory
protection, particularly as it relates to the introduction of new
and/or updated equipment, and approvals issued for respiratory
protective equipment. As a minimum, the user should be aware
of NIOSH publication Cumulative Supplement — NIOSH Cer-
tified Equipment, which lists the approvals issued by NIOSH (to
a specified date) for respiratory protective equipment.
The reader can obtain: (1) the initial publication of the NIOSH
Certified Personal Protective Equipment-1974 (Pub. No.
74-112), which details the requirements for approval of equip-
ment; and (2) the updated Cumulative Supplement (June 1977)
NIOSH Certified Equipment (Pub. No. 77-195) by being placed
on the NIOSH mailing list.
1 would like to be placed on the NIOSH mailing list.
Name.
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APPENDIX D
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION...
A GUIDE FOR THE EMPLOYEE
-------
Respiratory Protection.
A Guide for the Employee
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE
Public Health Service
Center for Disease Control
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
-------
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION
A Guide for the Employee
U. S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare
Public Health Service
Center for Disease Control
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
Division of Technical Services
Cincinnati, Ohio
October 1978
For sale by the Superintendent of Documents,
U.S. Government Printing Office
Washington, D.C. 20402
Stock No. 017-433-00327-1
-------
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
This Guide was prepared under the direction of Gerald J. Karches,
Chief, Technical Information Development Branch (TIDE), Divi-
sion of Technical Services, National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health (NIOSH), with the help of individuals from the
Division of Safety Research. P. A. Froehlich, Chief, Technical
Publications Development Section, TIDE, had responsibility for
preparation of the Guide. Principal contributors to its development
were: Thomas F. Bloom, Industrial Hygiene Engineer, TIDB;
Walter Ruch, Ph.D., Regional Consultant for Occupational Safety
and Health, Region X; George Pettigrew, Regional Consultant for
Occupational Safety and Health, Region VI; Donna Berry, In-
dustrial Hygienist, TIDB; and Greg Co'ffey, Writer-Editor, TIDB.
Comments on this guide are encouraged.
Preface, iv
Introduction, 1
I Respiratory Protective Equipment Selection, 2
II Medical Aspects of Respiratory
Protective Equipment Usage, 7
III Proper Fitting of Respiratory
Protective Equipment, 8
IV Maintenance of Respiratory
Protective Equipment, 10
V Employee Responsibilities, 14
Appendix I — Air-Purifying,
Particulate-Removing Filter Respirators, 15
Appendix II — Air-Purifying Chemical
Cartridge and Canister Respirators
for Gases and Vapors, 18
Appendix III — Atmosphere Supplying
Respirators — Supplied-Air, 21
Appendix IV — Atmosphere Supplying
Respirators — Self-Contained
Breathing Apparatus, 27
DHEW (NIOSH) Publication No. 78-193B
n
in
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PREFACE
Respiratory protective equipment can be effective in protecting you
from the inhalation of hazardous amounts of airborne contami-
nants. However, this effectiveness is dependent on the respirator
being properly fitted, maintained in good condition, and most im-
portantly, on your knowing its proper uses and limitations. If the
contaminants in your work environment require you to wear a
respirator, then wear it; the alternatives are not worth the risk. Ex-
posure to high concentrations of a toxic substance, even for a short
time, can cause serious injury or death; and even exposure to lower
concentrations of certain toxic substances for long periods of time
can cause permanent damage to critical body organs such as lungs,
liver, and kidneys. Work environments where the oxygen content of
the air you breathe is below acceptable, levels can also be hazard-
ous.
As a user of respiratory protective equipment, you have the right:
1. To know what hazards you are being exposed to and the reasons
why a particular respirator was selected;
2. To be instructed in the use of equipment;
3. To be allowed to wear the equipment in a test atmosphere so as
to check for leakage and proper fit;
4. To be advised of the capabilities and limitations of the equip-
ment; and
5. To be instructed in the proper maintenance of ttye respiratory
protective equipment.
This guide, prepared for you, discusses the above aspects in some
detail to enable you to understand the do's and don'ts of respirator
usage to safeguard your health from airborne hazards encountered
in the work environment.
IV
INTRODUCTION
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has
set maximum levels for many airborne toxic materials. If you are
exposed to amounts of these materials in excess of the standard, the
law requires that your employer install, implement, or institute
feasible engineering or administrative controls so as to reduce your
exposure to acceptable levels. If these controls do not prove feasi-
ble, or while they are being installed/instituted, your employer is re-
quired to furnish appropriate respiratory protection to each exposed
employee. You may also have to wear respiratory protective equip-
ment during cleaning and maintenance activities where you are
briefly exposed to high concentrations of a hazardous substance.
Further, your employer is required to establish a respiratory protec-
tion program with written standard operating procedures which
detail, among other aspects, how the respirators were chosen and
how they are to be used and maintained.
You should be familiar with the respirator selected and the proper
maintenance procedures for the equipment.
-------
I. RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT SELECTION
The selection of the proper respiratory protective equipment in-
volves, for the most part, three basic steps:
• Identification of the hazard;
• Evaluation of the hazard; and
• Selection of the proper respiratory protective equipment.
A. IDENTIFICATION OF THE HAZARD
Hazards may take many different forms. Since the selection of a
respirator is based on the specific hazards to which you are exposed,
JUST ANY RESPIRATOR WON'T DO, It is important to know
something about the different kinds of hazardous materials which
may exist within your facility requiring the use of respirators.
1. Gaseous Contaminants
Gaseous contaminants add another invisible material to the air
we already breathe. There are two types of gaseous contami-
nants:
a. Gases include substances, e.g., carbon dioxide, which are
solids or liquids only at very low temperatures and/or high
pressures. Carbon dioxide is a gas at room temperature, but it
also occurs as a solid, dry ice at low temperatures, and as a
liquid in presurrized tanks.
b. Vapors are exactly like gases except that they are formed
by evaporation of substances, such as acetone or trichloro-
ethylene, which ordinarily exist as liquids.
2. Particulate Contaminants
Particulate contaminants are made of tiny particles or droplets of
a material. There are three types of particulates:
o. Dusts are solid particles produced by such processes as
grinding, crushing, and mixing of powder compounds. Exam-
ples are sand and plaster dust.
b. Mists are tiny liquid droplets given off whenever a liquid is
sprayed, vigorously mixed, or otherwise agitated. Acid mists
around diptanks used for metal cleaning and oil mists near
newspaper printing presses are two examples.
c. Fumes are tiny metallic particles given off when metals are
heated. Fumes are found in the air near soldering, welding, and
brazing operations as well as near molten metal processes such
as casting and galvanizing. The two basic forms — gaseous and
particulates — frequently occur together. Paint spraying opera-
tions, for example, produce both paint mist (particulate) and
solvent vapors (gaseous).
3. Oxygen Deficient A tmosphere
This condition is most commonly found in confined spaces with
very poor ventilation. Examples are silos, petrochemical tanks,
and the holds of ships. (In some situations an oxygen deficient at-
mosphere is purposely maintained. For instance, fruit is some-
times kept in warehouses with a lot of carbon dioxide and very
little oxygen.) Oxygen deficient atmospheres occur in two
different ways.
a. Oxygen is "used up" by a chemical reaction in which it is
combined with other elements. This is what happens when fire
burns or iron rusts.
6. Oxygen is "pushed out" by another gas. If a room with
"normal" air (which contains about 21% oxygen) fills up with
another gas, e.g., helium, there will be less oxygen in every
breath you take because the oxygen is being steadily "dis-
placed" by the helium.
-------
Oxygen deficient atmospheres have been classified as im-
mediately dangerous to life. Typical early symptoms are dizziness
and euphoria — like being slightly drunk. Lack of oxygen affects
the brain very quickly, so you might not be aware of what is
wrong until you are too confused to escape. Oxygen starvation
can cause serious injury to the brain.
4. Atmospheres Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health
This is a term which is used to describe very hazardous at-
mospheres in which exposure will:
a Cause serious injury or death within a matter of minutes.
Examples are exposure to high concentrations of carbon
monoxide or hydrogen sulfide.
6. Cause serious delayed effects. Exposure to critical levels of
radioactive materials or cancer-causing agents are examples.
B. EVALUATION OF THE HAZARD
Once a potential hazard has been recognized and the hazardous
substance or particulate identified, it is then necessary to determine
the amount of contaminant (concentration) present. The measured
concentration can be stated in various "units," depending on the
form of the contaminant. The two most widely used units are (1)
mg/M3 — milligrams of contaminant in air per cubic meter of air
and (2) ppm — parts of contaminant in air per million parts of air.
The measured concentration (in appropriate units) is then com-
pared with either the permissible exposure level (PEL), mandated
in OSHA regulations, or the threshold limit value (TLV), recom-
mended by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial
Hygienists (ACGIH). These values, as determined by these groups,
are the maximum concentration to which a worker may be exposed
day after day without adverse affects. It is your employer's respon-
sibility to determine the concentration of the contaminant you are
exposed to.
C. SELECTION OF THE RESPIRATORY
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
After the hazard(s) has been recognized and measured, the other
factors still need to be considered.
• Is the contaminant recognized the only contaminant present?
• Does the contaminant have adequate warning properties? (Warn-
ing properties are especially important when air-purifying respira-
tors are used against gases and vapors.)
• Will the contaminant irritate the eyes at the estimated concentra-
tion to which the user will be subjected?
• Can the contaminant be absorbed through the skin? If it can, will
it result in a serious injury?
Now the proper respirator can be chosen.
What types are available?
1. Respirator types:
Respiratory protective devices can be divided into two general
categories:
a. Air-purifying respirators
These devices remove the contaminant from the breathing air
before it is inhaled. For each model of air-purifying respirator,
there are usually many air-purifying filters available for pro-
tection against specific contaminants. These filters fall into two
subgroups: particulate removing filters and vapor and gas
removing filters called cartridges or canisters. These are dis-
cussed in Appendices I and II. Combination filters for protec-
tion against both particulates and organic vapors are also
available.
b. Atmosphere Supplying Respirators
These devices supply uncontaminated breathing air to the user
from a source other than the surrounding atmosphere. These
types are usually complex and come in many configurations.
-------
Atmosphere Supplying Respirators can be broken down into
two subgroups.
Air Respirators, in which breathable air is conveyed to the user
via a compressed air line or hose, and Self-contained
Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), in which the user carries the
breathing air sources which can be a compressed air tank or an
oxygen generating device. See Appendices III and IV.
2. Selection Procedures
Selecting the proper respirator must be based on the hazard pre-
sent, its concentration, and the form of the hazard (vapor, partic-
ulate, etc.).
3. Approved Respiratory Protective Equipment
OSHA requires that approved respirators be used if they are
available. If only one brand of respirator on the market is ap-
proved for a particular hazard, then that brand is considered to
be "available" and must be used.
An approved respirator is one that has been tested and found to
meet minimum performance standards by the National Institute
for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the Mine
Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). An approved
respirator (by NIOSH) contains the following:
• An assigned identification number placed on
each unit, e.g., TC-21C-101. The TC designation
will always precede the identification number.
• A label identifying the type of hazard the
respirator is approved to protect against.
• Additional information on the label which indi-
cates limitations and identifies the component
parts approved for use with the basic unit.
II. MEDICAL ASPECTS OF
RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT
The use of any type of respirator imposes some physiological stress
on the user. Air-purifying respirators, for example, make breathing
more difficult because the filter or cartridge can reduce the flow of
air. The special exhalation valve on an open circuit pressure de-
mand SCAB requires you to exhale against resistance. The bulk
and weight of an SCBA can be a burden. If you are using an airline
respirator, you might have to drag up to 300 feet of hose around. All.
of these factors can increase the "total" workload. If you have lung
or heart problems, wearing a respirator could present an unaccepta-
ble risk. You should have some type of medical examination to
determine if you are able to wear a respirator without it affecting
your health.
A medical examination by a physician is the preferred screening
mechanism. The following conditions may affect your ability to
wear a respirator, and if they exist, you should get a medical opin-
ion.
Lung
• Heart
• Other
1. Do you have a history of asthma or emphysema?
2. Do you have difficulty in breathing?
3. Do you have any documented lung problems?
1. Do you have high blood pressure?
2. Do you have artery diseases?
3. Do you have documented heart problems?
1. Do you have missing or arthritic fingers?
2. Do you have facial scars?
3. Do you have claustrophobia?
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III. PROPER FITTING OF
RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT
Once a respirator has been selected for the contaminant to which
you are exposed, and is appropriate for the airborne concentration,
you are fully protected, right? Wrong! A respirator won't protect
you unless the air you breathe goes through the "business end" —
the canister, filter, or air supply system. If the face seal isn't tight or
the connections are lose you may think you're breathing through it,
but you will actually be breathing around it.
You may have to try on several different respirators before you find
the one that fits properly. Your employer should have several types
of respirators to choose from. Your employer must show you how to
put the.respirator on and how to adjust the straps for the best fit.
The respirator should fit snugly, but it should not leave red marks,
deep indentations on your face, or make it difficult to turn your
head.
Beards and bushy sideburns may have to go, since respirator face-
pieces won't seal over them. Similarly, gum and tobacco chewing
cannot be allowed since excess facial movement can break the
faceseal.
If you wear prescription glasses, you must wear a respirator face-
piece which will accommodate the glasses (this is especially critical
for full facepiece respirators). Contact lenses should not be worn
while wearing a respirator. A properly fitted respirator — primarily
a full facepiece respirator — will stretch the skin at the temples
slightly so that the contact lens might pop out. Also, contaminants
that do leak in around the sealing surface may get underneath the
contact lens thus causing severe discomfort. Your first reaction
would be to remove the facepiece to remedy the situation — which
would be fatal in a lethal environment.
8
Two types of fitting tests are used to determine the proper fit of
respiratory protective equipment: qualitative tests and quantitative
tests. Qualitative tests are fast, usually simple, but not as accurate
an indicator for improper fit as the quantitative test. The quantita-
tive test, though more accurate, requires the purchase of expensive
equipment, requires a specially trained operator, and is of limited
use due to its complexity and bulk.
-------
IV. MAINTENANCE OF RESPIRATORY
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
If you wear a respirator routinely it should be cleaned, inspected,
and stored in a convenient location after each use.
A. CLEANING AND STORAGE
At the end of the workshift the respirator should be cleaned
and stored in a convenient, clean location. If the respirator is
shared, it should be cleaned and disinfected between users. In
a large respirator program there may be a central facility for
cleaning. In a small program, you may be expected to clean
your own respirator. If so, the following method may be used.
• Wash with a detergent or a combination detergent and disinfec-
tant, in warm water using a brush.
• Rinse in clean water, or rinse once with a disinfectant and once
with clean water. (The clean water rinse is particularly important
because traces of detergent or disinfectant left on the mask can
cause skin irritation or dermatitis.)
• Dry on a rack or hang from a clothes line. In either case position
the respirator so that the facepiece rubber won't "set" crooked as it
dries.
Proper storage of a respirator is very important. The law requires
that respirators be protected from dust, sunlight, heat, extreme
cold, excessive moisture, and damaging or contaminating chemi-
cals. A storage cabinet for air-purifying respiratory protective
equipment is shown below.
10
B. INSPECTION
Inspection of the respirator is an important part of usage. You can
further safeguard your health by performing (as appropriate) the
below listed checks.
1. Disposable respirators, check for:
• Integrity of the filter (for holes);
• Straps for elasticity and deterioration;
• Metal nose clip for deterioration (if applicable).
2. Air-purifying respirators (quarter-mask, half-mask,
full-facepiece, and gas mask):
a. Rubber Facepiece, check for:
excessive dirt;
cracks, tears, or holes;
distortion from improper storage;
cracked, scratched or loose fitting lens (full-facepiece);
broken or missing mounting clips.
11
-------
b. Headstraps, check for:
• breaks;
• loss of elasticity;
• broken or malfunctioning buckles or attachments;
• excessively worn serrations of the head harness which might
allow the facepiece to slip (full-facepiece only).
c. Inhalation Valve, Exhalation Valve, check for:
• Detergent residue, dust particles, or dirt on valve or valve
seat;
• Cracks, tears, or distortion in the valve material, or valve
seat;
• Missing or defective valve cover.
d. Filter Element(s), check for:
Proper filter for the hazard;
Approval designation;
Missing or worn gaskets;
Worn threads — both filter threads and facepiece threads;
Cracks or dents in filter housing;
Deterioration of harness (gas mask canister);
Service life indicator, or end of service date — for expiration
(gas mask).
e. Corrugated Breathing Tube (gas masks), check for:
• Cracks;
• Missing or loose hose clamps;
• Broken or missing connectors.
3. Atmosphere-Supplying Respirators
a. Check facepiece, headstraps, valves, and breathing tube as
discussed previously.
6. Hood, Helmet, Blouse, or Full Suit (if applicable), check
for:
• Rips and torn seams;
• Headgear suspension;
• Cracks or breaks in faceshield;
• Protective screen to see that it is intact and fits correctly over
the faceshield (abrasive blasting hoods and blouses).
12
c. Air Supply System, check for:
• Breaks or kinks in air supply hoses and end fitting attach-
ments;
• Tightness of connections;
• Proper setting of regulators and valves (consult manufac-
turer recommendations);
• Correct operation of air purifying elements and carbon
monoxide or high-temperature alarms.
d. Self-contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA):
• Consult manufacturer's literature.
If defects are observed in a respirator, it must be removed from
use until adequately repaired, or it must be replaced.
C. REPAIR
Sooner or later your respirator will need a new part or some other
repair. The law requires that the people who repair respirators be
well trained. And it is important for everyone to realize that
respirator parts from different manufacturers are not interchange-
able. The NIOSH approval will not hold if an air hose or a gasket or
any other part has been replaced by one from a different brand of
respirator. This is true even if the respirator seems to work just as
well with the substitute part.
13
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V. EMPLOYEE RESPONSIBILITIES
As a user of respiratory protective equipment, you also have respon-
sibilities.
• Use respiratory protective equipment as instructed.
• Guard against damaging the respirator.
• Go immediately to an area of "clean" air if your respirator mal-
functions.
• Report any malfunctioning of respiratory protective equipment
to your supervisor. This would include but not be limited to:
— Discomfort;
— Resistance to breathing;
— Fatigue due to respirator usage;
— Interference with vision or communication;
— Restriction of movement.
It is impossible to cover briefly all the considerations that you
should be familiar with because of the many types of respirators
available. The manufacturer can supply much of the needed infor-
mation. However, to be of value, it must be fully read and applied.
The appendices in this guide provide specific information on the
general types of respirators most commonly in use. They are not all-
inclusive, but do provide the basic information an employee should
know about his particular respirator.
14
APPENDIX I
AIR-PURIFYING, PARTICULATE-
REMOVING FILTER RESPIRATORS
A. DESCRIPTION
These are generally called "dust," "mist," or "fume" respirators
and by a "filtering" action remove particulates before they can be
inhaled.
L Single-use, dust
Side view showing
proper position of straps
15
-------
The single-use respirator is a respirator which is completely dis-
posed of after use. They are for individual use and should be dis-
carded when resistance becomes excessive or the respirator is
damaged. Generally, these respirators are approved only for
pneumoconiosis- or fibrosis-producing dust such as coal dust,
silica dust, and asbestos.
2. Quarter-mask, dust and mist, and half-mask, dust and
mist
The quarter-mask covers the mouth and nose; the half-mask fits
over the nose and under the chin. The half-mask usually pro-
duces a better facepiece-to-face seal than does the quarter-mask
and is therefore preferred for use against more toxic dusts and
mists.
These dust and mist respirators are designed for protection
against dusts and mists whose TLV is greater than .05 mg/M3 or 2
mppcf.
3. Half-mask, high efficiency
This mask uses a high efficiency filter. Because of this high effi-
ciency filter, this respirator can be used in atmospheres contain-
ing dusts, mists, fumes, or combinations of these forms where the
TLV is less than .05 mg/M3 or 2 mppcf.
4. Full facepiece
Full facepiece respirators cover the face from the" hairline to
below the chin. In addition to providing more protection to the
face, the full facepiece gives a better seal than do the half- or
quarter-masks. These respirators provide protection against
dusts, mists, fumes, or any combination of these contaminants de-
pending upon the type of filter used.
16
Typical full facepiece respirator.
B. LIMITATIONS
• Air-purifying respirators do not provide oxygen, so they must
never be worn in oxygen-deficient atmospheres.
• Particulate-removing air-purifying respirators offer no protection
against atmospheres containing contaminant gases or vapors.
• These respirator types should not be used for abrasive blasting
operations.
C. PROBLEMS
• The air flow resistance of a particulate-removing respirator filter
element increases as the quantity of particles it retains increases,
thus increasing the breathing resistance. As a rule of thumb, when
comfortable breathing is impaired because of dust build-up, the
filter should be replaced.
• Performance of some filter materials is affected by open storage
in very humid atmospheres. Care should be taken in storing filter
elements.
17
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APPENDIX II
AIR-PURIFYING, CHEMICAL
CARTRIDGE AND CANISTER
RESPIRATORS FOR GASES AND
VAPORS
A. DESCRIPTION
Vapor and gas-removing respirators use cartridges or canisters con-
taining chemicals to trap or react with specific vapors and gases
and remove them from the air breathed. The basic difference be-
tween a cartridge and a canister is the volume of the sorbent.
Generally, a "cartridge" refers to a chemical filtering element
which attaches directly to the facepiece, whereas a "canister" refers
to the chemical filter element held in a harness and which is con-
nected to the facepiece via a corrugated breathing tube. Some typi-
cal cartridge and canister respirators are shown below.
Typical half-mask respirator. Typical quarter-mask respirator.
18
RETAINING SCREEN
COARSE FILTER PAD
GAS- AND VAPOR-REMOVING
SORBCNT MATERIAL
CARTRIDGE 'CAM- OR SHELL
COARSE FILTER PAD
RETAINING SCREEN
CARTRIDGE HOLDER
_ GASKET
FACEPIECE BODY
INHALATION VALVE
Typical chemical cartridge.
1. Half-mask and Quarter-mask Chemical Cartridge or
Canister Respirators
These are available for protection against single chemicals such
as ammonia or against entire classes such as organic vapors. Be
sure to read the label on the cartridge or canister since it tells
what the cartridge or canister protects against, the maximum
concentration in which the element can be used, and in some ins-
tances, the service life or expiration date of the element.
2. Fit II facepiece
The full facepiece respirator may use a canister or cartridge(s) as
the protective element. The front, back, and chin-mounted full-
facepiece canister respirators are also referred to as "gas masks."
B. LIMITATIONS, CHEMICAL CARTRIDGE OR
CANISTER
• These respirators do not supply oxygen, so they must never be
worn in oxygen deficient atmospheres.
• They must not be used if the chemical to be protected against
lacks adequate warning properties — odor, taste, or irritation,
unless their use is permitted by applicable OSHA or MHSA stand-
ards. Warnings such as these are necessary to alert you that the sor-
bent is saturated, and the contaminant is passing through the
cartridge or canister, and you are breathing contaminated air.
19
-------
• They must not be used in atmospheres immediately dangerous to
life or health, except for escape.
• They provide protection only from the specific gases or vapors
they were designed to protect against (they may be worthless for
other gases or vapors).
20
APPENDIX III
ATMOSPHERE SUPPLYING
RESPIRATORS — SUPPLIED-AIR
Atmosphere-supplying respirators, rather than removing the
hazardous material from the air, exclude the workplace air
altogether and provide clean air from an independent source. There
are two kinds of atmosphere supplying respirators: a supplied-air
respirator in which the user is supplied with respirable air through
a hose, and a self-contained respirator in which the user carries a
supply of respirable air.
A. DESCRIPTION —SUPPLIED-AIR
RESPIRATOR
Supplied-air respirators use a central source of breathing air that is
delivered to the wearer through an air supply line or hose. There are
essentially two major groups of supplied-air respirators — the
airline device and the hose mask with or without a blower.
/. Airline Devices
The distinction of airline devices is that they use a stationary
source of compressed air delivered through a high-pressure hose.
Airline devices can be equipped with half or full-face masks,
helmets, or hoods, or the device can come as a complete suit.
Airline respirators can be used for protection against either par-
ticulates, gases, or vapors. They provide a high degree of protec-
tion against these contaminants but they cannot be used in at-
21
-------
mospheres immediately dangerous to life or health because the
user is completely dependent on the integrity of the air supply
hose and the air source. If something happens to either the hose
or air supply, he may not be able to escape from the contaminated
area fast enough without endangering his life.
A great advantage of the airline respirator is that it can be used
for long continuous periods. There are three types of airline
respirators.
a. Demand Airline Device
In a demand device, the air enters the facepiece only on "der
mand" of the wearer, i.e., when the person inhales. This is due
to the nature of the valve and pressure regulator. An example
of a demand, half-mask airline device is shown below.
During inhalation there is a negative pressure in the mask, so if
there is leakage, contaminated air may enter the mask and be
breathed by the user. The leakage problem is a major drawback
of the demand device. Demand devices are also available with
a full-face mask, which provides a better seal than does the
half-mask.
6. Pressure Demand Airline Devices
The pressure demand device has a regulator and valve design
22
such that there is a continuous flow (until a fixed static pres-
sure is attained) of air into the facepiece at all times, regardless
of the "demand" of the user. The airflow into the mask creates
a positive pressure outward. As such, there is no problem of
contaminant leakage into the facepiece. This is a significant
advantage of this type of device.
c. Continuous-flow Airline Device
The continuous-flow airline respirator maintains a constant
airflow at all times and doesn't use a regulator, but uses an
airflow control valve or orifice which regulates the flow of air.
A continuous flow-full facepiece device is shown below.
The continuous-flow device creates a "positive" pressure in the
facepiece, and as a result, does not have the problem of inward
leakage of contaminant.
23
-------
A special type of continuous-flow device that provides protec-
tion against flying particles of abrasive materials is also avail-
able. The abrasive blasting airline respirator, shown below, in-
corporates a loose fitting facepiece.
2. Hose Masks
Hose masks supply air from an uncontaminated source through a
strong, large diameter hose to the facepiece, and do not use com-
pressed air or have any pressure regulating devices. (An advan-
tage of the hose mask with a blower is its minimal resistance to
breathing). Advantages of the hose mask without a blower are its
theoretically long use periods and its simple construction, low
bulk, easy maintenance, low initial cost, and minimal operating
cost. Two types are available:
a. Those masks with hand or motor operated air blowers
have a full facepiece mask. The hose length can be up to 300
feet. It must not be used in atmospheres immediately danger-
ous to life or health.
24
Hose mask respirator with hand operated blower.
b. Hose masks without blowers must have a tight fitting full
facepiece. Helmets and hoods cannot be used. The hose mask
without a blower can have up to 75 feet of hose.
Hose mask without Blower.
25
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B. LIMITATIONS
1. A irlin e Devices
a. These devices must not be used in atmospheres im-
mediately dangerous to life or health since the user is depen-
dent upon an air hose which, if cut, crushed, or damaged,
leaves him with little or no protection.
b. The trailing air supply hose of the airline respirator se-
verely restricts the wearer's mobility. This may make the
airline respirator unsuitable for those who must move fre-
quently between widely separated work stations.
2. Hose Mask
a. The hose mask with a blower cannot be used in at-
mospheres immediately dangerous to life or health because the
low air volume flow may result in a negative pressure being
produced in the mask during inhalation allowing contami-
nated air to leak into the mask. Also, if the air hose is cut or
obstructed, the user will be unprotected.
b. The trailing air supply hose of the hose mask severely
limits mobility, so it may be unsuitable if frequent movement
among separated work stations is required.
c. A severe restriction of the hose mask without a blower is
that it is limited to a maximum hose length of 75 feet. Also, it
requires the wearer to inhale against the resistance to air flow
offered by the air hose which may become significant during
heavy work. Inhaling against this resistance may cause fatigue.
26
APPENDIX IV
ATMOSPHERE SUPPLYING
RESPIRATORS — SELF-CONTAINED
BREATHING APPARATUS (SCBA)
The self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) allows the user to
carry a respirable breathing supply with him/her, and does not need
a stationary air source such as a compressor to provide breathable
air. The air supply may last from 3 minutes to 4 hours depending on
the nature of the device.
A. DESCRIPTION —SCBA
/. Closed Circuit SCBA
Another name for closed circuit SCBA is "rebreathing" device.
The air is rebruuthed after the exhaled carbon dioxide has been
removed and the oxygen content restored by a compressed oxygen
source or an oxygen-generating solid. These devices are designed
primarily for 1-4 hour use in toxic atmospheres. Because negative
pressure is created in the facepiece during inhalation, there is in-
creased leakage potential. Therefore, the devices should be used
in atmospheres immediately hazardous to life and health only
when their long-term use is necessary, as in mine rescue. Two
types of closed circuit SCBA are available.
a. Compressed Oxygen Cylinder Type
In this device, breathable air is supplied from an inflatable
bag. Exhaled air from the wearer is filtered to remove carbon
dioxide and the oxygen consumed is replenished from an oxy-
gen cylinder.
27
-------
Typical oxygen-supplying closed circuit SCBA.
2. Open Circuit SCBA
An open circuit SCBA exhausts the exhaled air to the atmosphere
instead of recirculating it. A tank of compressed air carried on
the back, supplies air via a regulator to the facepiece. Because
there is no recirculation of air, the service life of the open circuit
SCBA is shorter than a closed circuit system. Two types of open
circuit SCBA are available, "demand" or "pressure demand."
a. Demand SCBA
In a demand SCBA, air flows into the facepiece only on "de-
mand of the wearer," i.e., when the person inhales. This is due
to the nature of the valves and pressure regulator. An example
of a demand open circuit is shown below. During inhalation
there is a negative pressure in the mask, so if there is leakage,
contaminated air can enter the mask and be breathed by the
user. The leakage problem is a major drawback of the demand
device. Because of this problem, a demand type open circuit
SCBA should not be used in atmospheres immediately danger-
ous to life or health.
28
Typical open circuit SCBA.
b. Pressure Demand SCBA
The pressure demand open circuit SCBA has a regulator and
valve design, which maintains a positive pressure in the
facepiece at all times regardless of the "demand" of the user.
As such, there is no problem of contaminant leakage into the
facepiece. This is a significant advantage of the pressure
demand device. A pressure demand SCBA is identical in
appearance to a demand SCBA, but has a different regulator
assembly and facepiece exhalation valve design.
3. Com bination A tmosphere Supplying Respirator:
Supplied Air and SCBA
Designed primarily as a long duration device, this respirator com-
bines an airline respirator with an auxiliary air supply (usually
compressed air) to protect against the possible failure of the pri-
mary air supply (the airline). The additional supply can be ap-
proved for 15 minutes or even longer. The choice depends upon
how long it would take to escape from the toxic atmosphere if the
primary air supply failed.
29
-------
Typical combination air line and SCBA respirator.
B. LIMITATIONS
• The air supply is limited to the amount in the cylinder (SCBA's
using a compressed air tank) and therefore the respirator cannot be
used for extended periods without recharging or replacing the cylin-
ders.
• Because these respirators are bulky and heavy, they are often un-
suitable for strenuous work or use in confined spaces.
• Because of the short service time of the auxiliary air supply, the
escape portion of the combination unit can be used only for escape
from atmospheres Immediately Hazardous to Life or Health
(IDLH) unless the escape portion has a minimum of 15 minutes ser-
vice life. Such devices can then be used for entry into immediately
dangerous to life or health atmospheres, provided not more than
20% of the available breathing supply is used. These devices may
always be used for entry into IDLH atmosphere when utilized with
the external air supply.
30
NIOSH AND OSHA REGIONAL OFFICES
The following pages list NIOSH and OSHA regional offices Either nf
these facilities serving the state can provide information on the Occupational
Safety and Health Act including questions on standards interpretations, volun-
tary compliance information, copies of the OSHA Standards. OSH Act
Employee Rights Posting Notice, and other OSHA publications.
1
NIOSH REGIONAL OFFICES
DHEW, Region I
JFK Federal Dldg.
Room 1401
Boston, Massachusetts 02203
617/223-6668
DHEW, Region II
26 Federal Plaza, Room 3300
New York, New York 10007
212/264-2485
DHEW, Region III
P. 0. Box 13716
Philadelphia, PA 19101
215/596-6716
DHEW, Region IV
101 Marietta Tower
Atlanta, CA 30323
404/221-2396
DHF.W, Region V
300 South Wacker Dr.
33rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60606
312/886-3651
DHEW, Region VI
1200 Main Tower Bldg.
Dallas, Texas 75202
214/655-3081
DHEW, Region VII
601 E. 12th St.
5th Floor West
Kansas City, Missouri 64106
816/374-5332
DHEW, Region VIII
11037 Federal Bldg.
Denver, Colorado 80294
303/837-3979
DHEW, Region IX
50 United Nation Plaza, Rm. 231
San Francisco, CA 94102
415/556-3781
DHEW, Region X
1321 Second Avc., Hall Stop 502
Seattle, Washington 98101
206/442-0530
31
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|FK Building. Room 1604
Boalon. Maitachu»ett> 02203
Rn>«i n
U.S. Department of Labor
Occupational Safety and Health Adminittration
ISIS Broadway (1 Ailor Plaza). Room M4S
New York. New York 10036
Ration III
U.S. Department of Labor
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
1S220 Gateway Center. 3535 Market Street
Philadelphia. Pennsylvania 19104
Rejioo IV
U.S. Department of Labor
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
137S Peachlree Street. N.E.. Suite 587
Atlanta. Georgia 30309
Ration V
U.S. Department of Labor
Occupational Safely and Health Administration
230 S Dearborn. 32nd Floor
Chicago. Illinois 6O6O4
Ration VI
U.S. Department of Labor
Occupational Safely and Health Administration
SSS Griffin Square Building. Room 602
Dallas. Texas 75202
Reflon VT1
U S Department of Labor
Occupational Safely and Health Administration
Federal Building. Room 3OOQ. B11 Walnut Street
Kansas City. Missouri 64106
ReftoD VIII
U S. Department of Labor
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Federal Building. Room 15O10. 1961 Stout Street
Denver. Colorauo 80202
Region IX
U.S. Department of Labor
Occupational Safely and Health Administration
9470 Federal Building. 450 Golden Gate Avenue
Post Office Box 36017
San Francisco. California 94102
Rat too X
U.S. Department of Labor
Occupational Safely and Health Administration
6046 Federal Office Building. 909 First Avenue
Seattle. Washington 9M74
Telephone: 617/223-6712/3
. Telephone: 212/971-5941/2
.Telephone: 215/596-1201
. Telephone: 4O4/526-3S73/4 or 2281/2
.Telephone: 312/353-4716/7
. Telephone: 214/749-2477/8/9 or 2587
... Telephone: 816/374-5861
. Telephone: 303/637-3883
.Telephone: 415/556-0564
Telephone: 206/442-5930
32
i oma : ItT* O—290-571
-------
APPENDIX E
GLOSSARY OF ASBESTOS TERMS
-------
ASBESTOS GLOSSARY
ABIH
Acoustical Insulation
Acoustical Tile
Aggressive Sampling
AIA
AIA
AIA
AIHA
AIHA Accredited
Laboratory
Airborne Asbestos
Analysis
Air Diffuser
Air Lock
Air Man
Air Monitoring
Air Plenum
American Board of Industrial Hygiene
The general application or use of asbestos for the
control of sound due to its lack of reverberant surfaces.
A finishing material in a building usually found in the
ceiling or walls for the purpose of noise control.
Air sampling which takes place after final clean-up
while the air is being physically agitated to produce a
"worst case" situation.
Asbestos Information Association
American Institute of Architects
American Insurance Association
American Industrial Hygiene Association
A certification given by the AIHA to an analytical
laboratory that has successfully participated in the
"Proficiency Analytical Testing" program for quality
control as established by the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health.
Determination of the amount of asbestos fibers sus-
pended in a given amount of air.
A device designed to disperse an air stream throughout
a given area.
A system of enclosures consisting of two polyethylene
curtained doorways at least three feet apart that does
not permit air movement between clean and contami-
nated areas.
An industrial hygienist or other qualified individual who
collects air samples and monitors the asbestos abate-
ment worksite.
The process of measuring the airborne fiber concentra-
tion of a specific quantity of air over a given amount of
time.
Any space used to convey air in a building or structure.
The space above a suspended ceiling is often used as an
air plenum.
-------
Algorithm
Alveolar Macrophages -
Alveoli
Ambient Air
Amended Water
Amosite
Amphibole
ANSI
Approved Landfill
Aspect Ratio
Asbestiform
Minerals
Asbestos
Asbestos Abatement
A universally accepted procedure developed for the
purpose of solving a particular problem. Algorithms
developed for asbestos provide a numerical index for
evaluating a degree of hazard in a particular area. The
Sawyer Algorithm and the Ferris Index are two, but
neither are widely used today.
Highly specialized mobile cells in the lungs that
attempt to engulf and digest such lung hazards as dusts
or fibers.
Located in clusters around the respiratory bronchides of
the lungs, this is the area in which true respiration
takes place.
The surrounding air or atmosphere in a given area under
normal conditions.
Water to which a chemical wetting agent (surfactant)
has been added to improve penetration into asbestos-
containing materials that are being removed.
An Asbestiform mineral of the amphibole group
containing approximately 50% silicon and 40% Iron (II)
Oxide, and is made up of straight, brittle fibers, light
gray to pale brown in color.
One of the two major groups of minerals from which
the Asbestiform minerals are derived, distinguished by
their chain-like crystal structure and chemical
composition.
American National Standards Institute
A site for the disposal of asbestos-containing and other
hazardous wastes that has been given EPA approval.
The length of a fiber vs. its width.
Minerals which, due to their crystal structures and
chemical composition, tend to be separated into fibers
and can be classified as a form of asbestos.
A generic name given to a number of naturally occur-
ring hydrated mineral silicates that possess a unique
crystalline structure, are incombustible in air, and are
separable into fibers. Asbestos includes the asbesti-
form varieties of chrysotile (serpentine); crocidolite
(riebeckite); amosite (cummingtonite-grunerite);
anthophyllite; and actinolite.
Procedures to control fiber release from asbestos-
containing materials in buildings.
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Asbestos Control
Asbestos Exposure
Assessment System
Asbestos Fibers
Asbestos Standard
Asbestosis
Atmospheres
Immediately Dangerous
to Life or Health
Atmosphere Supplying -
Respirators
Bid
"Blue Book"
Bridging
Encapsulant
Bronchi
Bronchogenic Cancer -
Cancer
Carbon Monoxide
Ceiling Concentration -
Minimizing the generation of airborne asbestos fibers
until a permanent solution is developed.
A decision tool which can be used to determine the
extent of the asbestos hazard that exists in a building,
and which can also be used to develop corrective
actions.
Fibers with their length being greater than five microns
(length to width ratio of 3:1), generated from an
asbestos-containing material.
Reference to the OSHA requirements in the general
industry standards regarding asbestos exposure (29 CFR
1910.1001), and EPA National Emission Standard for
Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) (40 CFR 61,
subpart M).
A non-malignant, progressive, irreversible lung disease
caused by the inhalation of asbestos dust and character-
ized by diffuse fibrosis.
A hazardous atmosphere to which exposure will result
in serious injury or death in a matter of minutes, or
cause serious delayed effects.
Respiratory protection devices which exclude work-
place air altogether and provide clean air from some
independent source.
A statement of the price at which a contractor will
complete a given project.
EPA publication of March 1983 titled, "Guidance for
Controlling Friable Asbestos-Containing Materials in
Buildings." Now replaced by 1985 revised edition.
The application of a sealant over the surface of
asbestos-containing material to prevent the release of
asbestos fibers.
Primary branches of the trachea (windpipe).
An abnormal cell growth in the primary branches of the
trachea (windpipe).
A cellular tumor which normally leads to premature
death of its host unless controlled.
A highly toxic colorless and odorless gas.
The maximum allowable level of toxic material that
can be present at any given point in time.
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Cementitious
CFM
Chrysotile
(white asbestos)
CIH
Cilia
Claustrophobia
Clean Area
Clerk of the Works
Closed Circuit SCBA -
Columns
Compressed Oxygen
Cylinder Type Closed
Circuit SCBA
Concrete-like
Asbestos
Contaminated Items
Continuous Flow
Airline Device
Contract
Specifications
CPSC
Asbestos-containing materials that are densely packed,
granular and are friable.
Cubic feet per minute
The only asbestiform mineral of the serpentine group
which contains approximately 40% each of silica and
magnesium oxide. It is the most common form of
asbestos used in buildings.
An industrial hygienist who has been granted certifica-
tion by the American Board of Industrial Hygiene.
Tiny hair-like structures in the windpipe and bronchi of
the lung passages that help force undesirable particles
and liquids up and out of the lungs.
The fear of being in enclosed or narrow spaces.
The first stage of the decontamination enclosure
system in which workers prepare to enter the work
area.
A person who coordinates and oversees all activities on
an asbestos abatement job site.
A self-contained respiratory protection device in which
the air is rebreathed after the exhaled carbon dioxide
has been removed and the oxygen content restored.
The building components which support the structural
beams.
A self-contained respiratory protection device in which
air is supplied from a compressed air cylinder. The
exhaled air is filtered to remove carbon dioxide, and
additional breathing air is provided.
Hard, non-friable asbestos-containing material that
requires a mechanical force to penetrate its surface.
Any objects that have been exposed to airborne
asbestos fibers without being sealed off or isolated.
A respirator that maintains a constant airflow to the
wearer.
A set of guidelines that a contractor must follow when
conducting an asbestos abatement job.
Consumer Product Safety Commission
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Criteria
Document
Decontamination
Enclosure System
Demand Airline
Device
Dirty Area
Dispersion Staining
Duct Tape
Dust Mask
Electron Microscopy
Employee
Notification
Employer's Liability
Encapsulation
Encapsulant (sealant) -
EPA
EPA Regulations
Epidemiology
NIOSH publications that address toxic materials,
analytical methods, personal protective equipment, etc.
A series of connected rooms with polyethylene
curtained doorways for the purpose of preventing con-
tamination of areas adjacent to the work area.
A respirator in which air enters the facepiece only
when the wearer breathes in.
Any area in which the concentration of airborne
asbestos fibers exceeds 0.01 f/cc, or where there is
visible asbestos residue.
Used in conjunction with polarized light to identify bulk
samples. A particle (fiber) identification technique
based on the difference between light dispersion of a
particle (fiber) and a liquid medium in which it is
immersed.
Heavy gauge tape capable of sealing joints or adjacent
sheets of polyethylene.
Single use or disposable dust respirator with a low
protection factor.
A method of asbestos sample analysis which utilizes an
electron beam to differentiate between fibers.
Informing employees or building occupants if asbestos is
present in the building, also informing them of the
hazards associated with asbestos exposure, what is
being done to eliminate the problem, etc.
Legal responsibility imposed on an employer requiring
him/her to pay damages to an injured employee.
The coating of asbestos-containing material with a
bonding or sealing agent to prevent the release of
airborne fibers.
A substance applied to asbestos-containing material
which controls the release of airborne asbestos-fibers.
Environmental Protection Agency
Regulatory standards which cover emissions into the
outside environment from a workplace and disposal of
hazardous wastes from job sites.
The study of occurrence and distribution of disease
throughout a population.
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Equipment Room
Establishing
Responsibility
Eyepiece
Facepiece
Fallout
Fiber Containment
Fiber Control
Fiber Releasability
Fiber Reynolds
Number
Fibrosis
Fibrous
Fibrous Aerosol
Monitor (FAM)
The last stage or room of the worker decontamination
system before entering the work area.
An asbestos program manager is designated and is given
the responsibility for directing and managing asbestos
control program activities.
A component of a full facepiece respirator which is a
gas-tight transparent window through which the wearer
may see.
The portion of a respirator which covers the wearer's
nose, mouth, and eyes in a full facepiece.
The intermittent release of fibers which occurs as a
result of weakened bonds in the material, or because of
deterioration.
Fibers per cubic centimeters of air
The maximum volume of air that can be forced from an
individual's fully inflated lungs in one second (Forced
Expiratory Volume - one second)
Enclosing or sealing off an area having airborne
asbestos fibers present so that the fibers will not
migrate resulting in contamination of other areas.
Minimizing the amount of' airborne fiber generation
through the application of amended water onto
asbestos-containing material, or enclosure (isolation) of
the material.
The potential for generation of airborne fibers from an
asbestos-containing source.
Refers to the diameter of a fiber.
A condition of the lungs caused by the inhalation of
excessive amounts of fibrous dust marked by the pres-
ence of scar tissue.
Composed almost entirely of fibers.
A portable survey instrument with the capability of
providing instantaneous airborne fiber concentration
readings.
Fireproofing
Spray- or trowel-applied fire resistant materials.
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Friable Asbestos
Full Facepiece
Respirator
FVC
Glovebag
Glove-box (bag)
Grade D Air
Ground Fault
Circuit Interrupter
Ground Fault
Interrupter
Half Mask -
High Efficiency
Heat Cramps
Heat Exhaustion
Heat Stress
Heat Stroke
Any materials that contain more than 1% asbestos by
weight and can be crumbled, pulverized, or reduced to
powder by hand pressure.
A respirator which covers the wearer's entire face from
the hairline to below the chin.
Forced Vital Capacity. The measured quantity of air
that be forcibly exhaled from a person's lungs after full
inhalation.
Plastic bag-type enclosure placed around asbestos-
containing pipe lagging so that it may be removed
without generating airborne fibers into the atmosphere.
Plastic enclosure placed around a specific operation
such as a valve to contain small areas of materials for
asbestos removal.
Breathing air which has between 19.5% - 23% oxygen,
no more than 5 mg/m^ of condensed hydrocarbons, no
more than 20 ppm of carbon monoxide, no pronounced
odor, and a maximum of 1000 ppm carbon dioxide.
A circuit breaker that is sensitive to very low levels of
current leakage from a fault in an electrical system.
A device which automatically de-energizes any high
voltage system component which has developed a fault
in the ground line.
A respirator which covers one-half of the wearer's face
and is equipped with filters capable of screening out
99.97% of all particles larger than 0.3 microns.
Painful spasms of heavily used skeletal muscles such as
hands, arms, legs, and abdomen which are sometimes
accompanied by dilated pupils and weak pulse resulting
from depletion of the salt content of the body.
A condition resulting from dehydration and/or salt
depletion, or lack of blood circulation which is usually
accompanied by fatigue, nausea, headache, giddiness,
clammy skin, and a pale appearance.
A bodily disorder associated with exposure to excessive
heat.
The most severe of the heat stress disorders resulting
from the loss of the body's ability to sweat which is
characterized by hot dry skin, dizziness, nausea, severe
headache, confusion, delerium, loss of consciousness,
convulsion, and coma.
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HEPA
HEPA Filtered
Vacuum
Holding Area
Homogeneous
Hose Masks
HVAC System
Industrial
Hygienist
Joists
Local Exhaust
Ventilation
Logbook
Lung Cancer
Make-up Air
MCEF
Mechanical Filter
Respirator
Medical Examinations -
Medical History
High Efficiency Particulate Air (Air Filter)
A high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtered
vacuum capable of trapping and retaining 99.97% of all
particles larger than 0.3 microns.
The airlock between the shower room and the clean
room in a worker decontamination system.
Evenly mixed and similar in appearance and texture
throughout.
Respirators that supply air from an uncontaminated
source through a strong, large diameter hose to the
facepiece that does not use compressed air or have any
pressure regulating devices.
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system
usually found in large business and industry facilities.
A professional qualified by education, training, and
experience to recognize, evaluate, and develop controls
for occupational health hazards.
The structural building component which the flooring or
roof rests on.
The mechanical removal of air contaminants from a
point of operation.
An official record of all activities which occurred
during a removal project.
An uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the lungs
which normally results in the death of the host.
Supplied or recirculated air to offset that which has
already been exhausted from an area.
Mixed Cellulose Ester Filter which is one of several
different types of media used to collect asbestos air
samples.
A respiratory protection device which offers protection
against airborne particulates including dusts, mists,
metal fumes, and smokes.
An evaluation of a person's health status conducted by a
medical doctor.
A record of a person's past health record, including all
the hazardous materials that they have been exposed to
and also any injuries or illnesses which might dictate
their future health status.
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Mesothelioma
Method 7400
Micron
Mil
Millimeter
•Mineral Wool
MSDS
MSHA
Negative Pressure
NE5HAP
NIOSH
NIOSH/M5HA
Numerical Value
Oilless Compressor
Open Circuit SCBA
Operations and
Maintenance Plan
(OMP)
A relatively rare form of cancer which develops in the
lining of the pleura or peritoneum with no known cure.
NIOSH sampling and analytical method for fibers using
phase-contrast microscopy. Replaces method P&CAM
239.
One millionth of a meter
Prefix meaning one-thousandth
One-thousandth of a meter
A commonly used substitute for asbestos
Material Safety Data Sheet
Mine Safety and Health Administration
An atmosphere created in a work area enclosure such
that airborne fibers will tend to be drawn through the
filtration system rather than leak out into the surround-
ing areas. The air pressure inside the work area is less
than that outside the work area.
National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air
Pollutants -- EPA Regulation 40 CFR subpart M, part
61.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health which was established by the Occupational
Safety and Health Act of 1970.
The official approving agencies for respiratory protec-
tive equipment who test and certify respirators.
Refers to the types and percentages of asbestos present
in a given sample.
An air compressor that is not oil lubricated, which does
not allow carbon monoxide to be formed in the breath-
ing air.
A type of self-contained breathing unit which exhausts
the exhaled air to the atmosphere instead of recircu-
lating it.
Specific procedures and practices developed for the
interim control of asbestos-containing materials in
buildings until it is removed.
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"Orange Booklets"
OSHA
Oxygen Deficient
Atmosphere
PAT Samples
Participate
Contaminants
P&CAM 239
PEL
Penetrating
Encapsulant
Peritoneum
Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE)
Personal Sample
Personnel Protection -
PF
Phase Contrast
Microscopy (PCM)
EPA publications issued in March 1979 titled:
Asbestos-Containing Materials in School Buildings; A
Guidance Document, parts I and II.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
which was created by the Occupational Safety and
Health Act of 1970; serves as the enforcement agency
for safety and health in the workplace environment.
Any atmosphere containing less than 19.5% oxygen.
Proficiency Analytical Testing of asbestos samples
conducted through NIOSH for laboratories involved with
the analysis of asbestos samples.
Minute airborne particles given off in the form of dusts,
smokes, fumes, or mists.
A NIOSH sampling and analytical method for measuring
airborne fibers using phase-contrast microscopy.
Permissible Exposure Limit as stated by OSHA
Liquid material applied to asbestos-containing material
to control airborne fiber release by penetrating into the
material and binding its components together.
The thin membrane that lines the surface of the abdom-
inal cavity.
Any material or device worn to protect a worker from
exposure to, or contact with, any harmful material or
force.
An air sample taken with the sampling pump directly
attached to the worker with the collecting filter placed
in the worker's breathing zone.
Notification and instruction of all workers prior to the
beginning of a project as to the hazards associated with
the job and what they can do to protect themselves
from these hazards.
Protection factor as provided by a respirator which is
determined by dividing the airborne fiber concentration
outside of the mask by the concentration inside the
mask.
An optical microscopic technique used for the counting
of fibers in air samples, but which does not distinguish
fiber types.
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Pipe Lagging
Pleura
Pneumoconiosis
Polarized Light
Microscopy (PLM)
Polyethylene
Posting
Powered Air
Purifying
Respirator (PAPR)
Pre-Construction
Conference
Pre-Employment
Physical
Pressure Demand
Airline Devices
Prevalent Levels
Prevalent Samples
Progress Payments
Protective Clothing
The insulation or wrapping around a pipe.
The thin membrane surrounding the lungs, and which
lines the internal surface of the chest cavity.
A condition in the lungs which is a result of having
inhaled various dusts and particles for a prolonged
period of time.
An optical microscopic technigue used to distinguish
between different types of asbestos fibers by their
shape and unigue optical properties.
Plastic sheeting which is often used to seal off an area
in which asbestos removal is taking place for the
purpose of preventing contamination of other areas.
Refers to caution or warning signs which should be
posted in any area in which asbestos removal is taking
place, or where airborne fiber levels may present a
health hazard.
Either a full facepiece, helmet, or hooded respirator
that has the breathing air powered to the wearer after
it has been purified through a filter.
A meeting held before any work begins between the
contractor and the building owner at which time the job
specifications are discussed and all details of the work
agreed upon.
Complete medical examination of an employee before
the job begins to determine whether or not he/she is fit
to perform the functions of their employment.
A respiratory protection device which has a regulator
and valve design such that there is a continuous flow of
air into the facepiece at all times.
Levels of airborne contaminants occurring under normal
conditions.
Air samples taken under normal conditions (background
samples).
A pre-work agreement whereby the building owner pays
the contractor after completion of certain phases of
the project.
Protective, lightweight garments worn by workers per-
forming asbestos abatement to keep gross contamina-
tion off the body.
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Pulmonary
Pulmonary Function
Tests
Purple Book
Qualitative Fit
Test
Rales
Random Sample
Recordkeeping
Resolution
Respirable
Respirator Program
Resuspension
Rip-Out
Risk
Safety Glasses
Scanning Electron
Microscopy (SEMj
Pertaining to, or affecting the lungs, or some portion
thereof.
A part of the medical examination required to deter-
mine the health status of a person's lungs.
EPA publication of June 1985 titled, "Guidance for
Controlling Asbestos-Containing Materials in Buildings,
1985 Edition." This document is a revision of the "Blue
Book."
A method of testing a respirator's face-to-facepiece
seal by covering the inhalation or exhalation valves and
either breathing in or out to determine the presence of
any leaks.
An abnormal sound heard from the lungs which does not
necessarily indicate any specific disease.
A sample drawn in such a way that there is no set
pattern and is designed to give a true representation of
the entire population or area.
Detailed documentation of all program activities,
decisions, analyses, and any other pertinent information
to a project.
The ability to distinguish between individual objects, as
with a microscope.
Breathable
A written program established by an employer which
provides for the safe use of respirators on their job
sites.
The secondary dispersal or re-entrainment of settled
fibers which have previously been released by impact or
fallout.
The actual removal of asbestos-containing materials
from a building.
The likelihood or probability of developing a disease, or
being hurt, as the result of exposure to a contaminant
or a condition.
Protective eye equipment.
A method of microscopic analysis which utilizes an
electron beam directed at the sample and then collects
the beams that are reflected to produce an image from
which fibers can be identified and counted.
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Scanning Transmission
Electron Microscopy
(STEM)
SCBA
Serpentine
Shower Room
Spirometer
Steel Beams
Structural
Member
Structural Steel
Substrate
Supplied Air
Respirator
Surfactant
TLV
Transmission Electron -
Microscopy (TEM7
Treated Cellulose
Tumor
A combination of a transmission electron microscope
with scanning and focusing coils so that a beam of
electrons can be scanned over the sample or pinpointed
in a particular area.
Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus
One of the two major groups of minerals from which
the asbestiform minerals are derived, distinguished by
their tubular structure and chemical composition.
A room between the clean room and the equipment
room in a worker decontamination system in which
workers take showers when leaving the work area.
An instrument which measures the volume of air being
expired from the lungs.
Building components which support the joists.
Any load-supporting member such as beams and load
supporting walls of a facility.
A building component which is designed to support
other structural members in a building.
The material or existing surface located under or
behind the asbestos-containing material.
A respirator that has a central source of breathing air
which is supplied to the wearer by way of an airline.
A chemical wetting agent added to water to improve its
penetration abilities into asbestos-containing materials.
Levels of contaminants established by the American
Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists to
which it is believed that workers can be exposed to with
minimal adverse health effects.
A method of microscopic analysis which utilizes an
electron beam that is focused onto a thin sample. As
the beam penetrates (transmits) through the sample,
the difference in densities produces an image on a
fluorescent screen from which samples can be identi-
fied and counted.
An insulation material made of paper or wood products
with fire-retarding treatment added.
A swelling or growth of cells and tissue in the body
which does not serve a useful purpose.
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TWA
Time-Weighted Average, as in air sampling.
Type B Reader
Type C Supplied-
Air Respirator
USEPA
Vermiculite
Visible Emissions
Visual Inspection
Washroom
Water Damage
WBGT
Wet Cleaning
Wetting Agents
Workmen's
Compensation
A physician with specialized training in reading x-rays,
specifically in recognizing lung disorders.
A respirator designed to provide a very high level of
protection which supplies air to the wearer from an
outside source such as a compressor.
United States Environmental Protection Agency
A micaceous mineral that is sometimes used as a
substitute for asbestos which is lightweight and highly
water-absorbent.
Airborne fibers given off from an asbestos-containing
source that are visible to the human eye.
A walk-through type inspection of the work area to
detect incomplete work; damage, or inadequate clean
up of a worksite.
A room between the work area and the clean room in
the equipment decontamination enclosure system where
workers shower.
Deterioration or delamination of ceiling or wall
materials due to leaks from plumbing or cracks in the
roof.
Wet Bulb Globe Temperature, a heat stress index.
The process of eliminating asbestos contamination from
surfaces and objects by using cloths, mops, or other
cleaning tools which have been dampened with water.
Materials that are added to water which is used for
wetting the asbestos-containing material in order for
the water to penetrate more effectively.
A system of insurance required in some states by law,
financed by employers, which provides payments to
employees or their families for occupational injuries,
illnesses, or fatalities resulting in loss of wage or
income incurred while at work.
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50272-101
REPORT DOCUMENTATION
PAGE
l._ REPORT NO.
EPA 560/1-85-002
3. Recipient's Accession No.
4. Title and Subtitle
INTERIM PROCEDURES AND PRACTICES FOR
ASBESTOS ABATEMENT PROJECTS
5. Report Date
Approved June 1985
6.
7. Author(s) Eva M. Clay, Mark Demyanek, William M. Ewing,
William H. Spain
8. Performing Organization Rept. No.
A-4092-001
9. Performing Organization Name and Address
GEORGIA TECH RESEARCH INSTITUTE
Environmental Health And Safety Division
GTRI/EDL/EHSD
Atlanta, Georgia 30332
10. Project/Task/Work Unit No.
A-4092
11. Contract(C) or Grant(G) No.
(C)
to CX812322-01-0
12. Sponsoring Organization Name and Address
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Toxic Substances
401 M Street, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 2Q46Q
13. Type of Report & Period Covered
Final
14.
IS. Supplementary Notes
16. Abstract (Limit: 200 words)
This manual details the recommended procedures for performing asbestos
abatement in buildings. The topics include contract specifications, legal
and insurance considerations, pre-work activities, worker protection
measures, air sampling: procedures, work practices, disposal techniques,
and glovebag procedures.. It is intended for use by those persons who
supervise asbestos abatement projects.
17. Document Analysis a. Descriptors
Asbestos Abatement
Asbestos-Containing Materials
Asbestos Control Program
Asbestos Exposure
b. Identifiers/Open-Ended Terms
c. COSATI Field/Group
18. Availability Statement
Release Unlimited
19. Security Class (This Report)
Unclassified
20. Security Class (This Page)
21. No. of Pages
22. Price
(See ANSI-Z39.18)
See Instructions on Reverse
OPTIONAL FORM 272 (4-77)
(Formerly NTIS-35)
Department of Commerce
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