New York State Asbestos Investigator Practice Exam

What does an operations and maintenance program focus on regarding asbestos-containing building materials (ACBM)?

1. A plan for emergency response

2. A program of work practices regarding ACBM

3. An inventory of hazardous materials

4. A guideline for employee training

The correct answer is: A program of work practices regarding ACBM

An operations and maintenance program is specifically designed to ensure the safe management of asbestos-containing building materials (ACBM) within a facility. Its primary focus is on developing a systematic program of work practices that help minimize the disturbance of ACBM during routine building operations and maintenance tasks. This includes outlining procedures for safe handling, regular inspections, and proper maintenance practices to prevent the release of asbestos fibers into the air. By concentrating on work practices regarding ACBM, the program aims to protect occupants and workers from potential exposure to asbestos. This emphasis on safe work practices is crucial because it helps to identify areas where ACBM might be present, ensures that any maintenance performed is done safely, and promotes ongoing awareness and compliance with safety regulations. Other options, while important in their own contexts, do not directly represent the core function of an operations and maintenance program. For example, a plan for emergency response is crucial in situations where ACBM may be inadvertently disturbed, but it does not encompass the routine management aspect. Similarly, an inventory of hazardous materials and guidelines for employee training, while relevant to asbestos safety, focus more on compliance and preparation rather than the ongoing operational practices needed to manage ACBM effectively.