Asbestos Contractor/Supervisor Practice Exam

What type of air sampling is employed before reoccupying an abatement area as per AHERA guidelines?

1. Aggressive air sampling

2. Standard air sampling

3. Passive air sampling

4. Random air sampling

The correct answer is: Aggressive air sampling

Aggressive air sampling is the method specifically recommended under AHERA (Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act) guidelines for evaluating the air quality in an abatement area before it is reoccupied. This technique involves using equipment to create a disturbance in the air, which helps to obtain a more accurate measurement of airborne asbestos fibers that may still be present after the abatement process. By employing this method, any residual airborne asbestos that might not have settled can be captured effectively, allowing for a thorough assessment of the air quality in the area. This approach ensures that any potential risks are identified and addressed before occupants return to the space, thereby enhancing safety and compliance with health regulations. In contrast, the other forms of air sampling—such as standard, passive, and random air sampling—do not create the same level of disturbance and, therefore, may provide less reliable data regarding potential airborne asbestos risks in the aftermath of abatement work. These methods are important in different contexts but do not meet the specific requirements outlined in AHERA for post-abatement reoccupancy assessments.