New York State Asbestos Investigator Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT considered an element of the building survey for asbestos?

1. Review of building plans

2. Visual inspection for PACM

3. Development of an abatement plan

4. Sampling and analysis of suspect material

The correct answer is: Development of an abatement plan

The development of an abatement plan is not considered an element of the building survey for asbestos. A building survey primarily focuses on identifying the presence of asbestos-containing materials through various methods, such as reviewing building plans, conducting visual inspections, and sampling suspect materials for analysis. Reviewing building plans helps investigators understand where asbestos might likely be located based on the materials used during the construction phase. A visual inspection for Presumed Asbestos-Containing Materials (PACM) allows for a thorough examination of the building's condition and materials that might contain asbestos. Sampling and analysis provide definitive evidence through laboratory results to confirm the presence of asbestos. While an abatement plan is crucial for responding to identified asbestos hazards, it is part of the subsequent actions taken after the survey is completed, rather than an element of the survey itself. Thus, it distinguishes itself from the other activities typically involved in the survey process.