New York State Asbestos Investigator Practice Exam

What is an exception to the requirement for periodic monitoring?

1. When workers are exposed to hazardous substances

2. When workers are wearing supplied air respirators

3. When daily monitoring is impractical

4. When there are no reports of exposure

The correct answer is: When workers are wearing supplied air respirators

The correct answer is when workers are wearing supplied air respirators. In situations where workers are utilizing supplied air respirators, the immediate risk of exposure to airborne asbestos fibers is significantly mitigated. These respirators provide a clean air supply, effectively protecting the workers from inhalation of harmful substances during their tasks. Consequently, periodic environmental monitoring can be deemed unnecessary during the operation of these respirators, as the protective equipment in use ensures that workers are not at risk of exposure. This exception is particularly crucial in high-risk environments, where the protective measures put in place can help reduce the frequency of monitoring without compromising worker safety. Monitoring can be resource-intensive and may not provide additional benefits if workers are fully protected through effective respiratory protection. In contrast, the other scenarios involve circumstances that typically warrant ongoing monitoring. For instance, when workers are exposed to hazardous substances, or when there are no assurances (such as during routine tasks without personal protective equipment), periodic monitoring is essential for ensuring that exposure levels remain within safe limits. Moreover, when daily monitoring is impractical, it does not inherently negate the requirement for some form of periodic assessment to safeguard worker health.