What does a physical assessment under AHERA require?

The requirement for a physical assessment under the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) focuses on assessing the condition of asbestos-containing material (ACM) and its potential for disturbance. This involves visually inspecting the material to determine if it is damaged, deteriorating, or located in an area where it could be disturbed during normal building operations.

This assessment is critical because it helps identify the risk of asbestos fibers being released into the air, which can pose health risks to building occupants. By evaluating the condition and potential for disturbance, investigators can develop appropriate management plans to ensure the safety of the environment and compliance with regulatory standards.

While analysis of air quality, sample collection, and employee training documentation are important in the overall asbestos management process, they are not the primary focus of the physical assessment conducted under AHERA. The physical assessment is specifically about understanding the state of the ACM present and determining the necessary actions to mitigate any potential hazards.