Asbestos Contractor/Supervisor Practice Exam

What additive is commonly used to create amended water for asbestos operations?

1. Detergent

2. Surfactant

3. Solvent

4. Chlorine

The correct answer is: Surfactant

The choice of surfactant as the correct answer relates to its specific role in asbestos operations. Surfactants are compounds that lower the surface tension of water, which enhances the ability of water to spread and wet surfaces effectively. In the context of asbestos abatement, amended water is treated water that is used to increase the effectiveness of the control measures by keeping asbestos fibers damp, thereby reducing the risk of airborne contamination. By using a surfactant in amended water, the water can more effectively penetrate and wet down surfaces that may contain asbestos, which helps in binding and suppressing any fibers that could become airborne during the demolition or removal process. This is particularly crucial in preventing the release of harmful asbestos fibers into the air, protecting both workers and the surrounding environment. In contrast, the other options do not fulfill this specific function in asbestos operations. Detergents might have similar wetting properties but aren't typically used for this purpose during asbestos abatement. Solvents and chlorine are not appropriate for creating amended water, as they could introduce additional risks or complications in managing asbestos-containing materials.