During a renovation project, workers discover suspected asbestos-containing materials. What is the first action the general contractor should take?
Correct Answer
B) Stop work and have materials tested by a certified laboratory
Work must stop immediately when asbestos is suspected, and materials must be tested by a certified laboratory. Only after confirmation of asbestos content can proper abatement procedures be implemented.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
When suspected asbestos-containing materials are discovered, federal and state regulations require immediate work stoppage to prevent fiber release and worker exposure. Professional testing by a certified laboratory is mandatory to confirm the presence of asbestos before any further action can be taken. This protects workers and ensures compliance with OSHA and EPA regulations. Only after laboratory confirmation can proper abatement procedures be planned and implemented by licensed professionals.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Continue work with respiratory protection
Continuing work with just respiratory protection is dangerous and illegal because it can disturb asbestos fibers, creating airborne contamination that standard respiratory protection cannot adequately filter. This violates OSHA regulations and puts all workers at serious health risk.
Option C: Wet the materials and dispose in regular dumpster
Wetting suspected asbestos materials and disposing in regular dumpsters is extremely dangerous and illegal. This method can still release fibers and contaminate waste streams. Asbestos waste requires special handling, packaging, and disposal at licensed facilities.
Option D: Cover the materials with plastic sheeting
Simply covering materials with plastic sheeting does not address the immediate need for professional testing and creates a false sense of security. This approach delays proper assessment and may still allow fiber release if the materials are disturbed.
Memory Technique
Think 'Suspect = STOP + TEST' - never assume, never continue, always verify through proper testing first
Reference Hint
Florida Building Code Chapter 1, Section 107 - Submittal Documents, and OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1101 for asbestos construction standards
More Project Mgmt Questions
What is the minimum R-value required for wall insulation in Florida Climate Zone 2?
A subcontractor brings a new chemical product to your jobsite. Under the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), what information must be immediately available to workers?
A construction site has a trench that is 8 feet deep in Type B soil. What is the maximum allowable slope ratio for the trench walls without protective systems?
A detail drawing shows a scale of 3/4" = 1'-0". If a dimension measures 2.25 inches on the drawing, what is the actual dimension?
What is the maximum recommended spacing between drywall screws when attaching to wood studs?
People Also Study
Business & Financial Management
120 questions · 70% to pass
Contract Administration
60 questions · 70% to pass
Previous Question
During a foundation inspection, you discover that the excavated soil has a high clay content and poor drainage. What is the most appropriate action before proceeding with concrete placement?
Next Question
What information must be included on a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) under the Globally Harmonized System (GHS)?