New York State Asbestos Investigator Practice Exam

What is the primary responsibility of an asbestos inspector?

1. To perform removal

2. To conduct inspections

3. To manage regulations

4. To provide training

The correct answer is: To conduct inspections

The primary responsibility of an asbestos inspector is to conduct inspections. This involves assessing buildings and materials to identify the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), evaluating their condition, and determining the risk of exposure to occupants. Inspectors are specifically trained to recognize and sample materials that may contain asbestos and to conduct surveys to gather relevant information about the building's materials and structure. While removal, management of regulations, and provision of training are all important aspects of dealing with asbestos, they fall under different roles and responsibilities. Asbestos removal is typically handled by licensed abatement contractors, and managing regulations involves ensuring compliance with local and federal laws, which is often the purview of regulatory agencies or other professionals. Training is essential for educating workers and other stakeholders about asbestos safety, but the inspector's main task remains focused on the inspection process itself, allowing for the identification and assessment of hazards associated with asbestos in a given environment.