New York State Asbestos Investigator Practice Exam

What action is not necessary when ACM is intact and undisturbed?

1. Regular inspections

2. Removal of materials

3. Monitoring for potential damage

4. Preventive maintenance

The correct answer is: Removal of materials

When Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACM) are intact and undisturbed, removal of these materials is not necessary. This is because the primary concern with asbestos is exposure to airborne fibers, which occurs when the material is damaged or disturbed. When ACM is in good condition, it doesn't pose a health risk, as long as it remains undisturbed. Therefore, the focus shifts to maintaining the integrity of the material through regular inspections to monitor its condition, preventive maintenance to prevent deterioration, and monitoring for any potential damage. These practices help ensure that the ACM remains intact and minimizes the risk of asbestos exposure. In contrast, removal would only become necessary if the ACM were deteriorating, to mitigate potential hazards. Hence, the correct action to state as not necessary when ACM is intact is its removal.