New York State Asbestos Investigator Practice Exam

Which material would be acceptable as ACBM according to AHERA?

1. Cement around water pipes

2. Wall or ceiling carpet

3. Glass

4. Concrete

The correct answer is: Cement around water pipes

Asbestos-containing building materials (ACBM) are defined by the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) as materials that contain more than one percent asbestos. In this context, cement around water pipes can be considered acceptable as an ACBM, provided it contains the regulated amount of asbestos. The importance of identifying ACBM lies in ensuring proper management and remediation processes, as these materials can pose health risks when disturbed or damaged. Cement utilized around water pipes may contain asbestos for insulation or fireproofing reasons, which aligns with common applications of asbestos in building materials historically. This is critical for investigators to recognize in their assessment strategies, as it signifies areas that may require careful monitoring or remediation to prevent exposure. On the other hand, wall or ceiling carpet, glass, and concrete do not typically qualify as ACBM. Carpets are generally made from textiles and do not usually contain asbestos. Glass is also not associated with asbestos in its typical manufacturing processes. Concrete, while sometimes containing asbestos in certain formulations, is mainly not regarded as an ACBM under AHERA unless specific asbestos-related additives are present in significant quantities. Understanding these distinctions is essential for effective investigation and management of potentially hazardous materials in buildings.