Observational Study of Final Cleaning and AHERA (Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act) Clearance Sampling at Asbestos-Abatement Sites in New Jersey

摘要

A study was conducted during the summer of 1988 to document final cleaning procedures and evaluate Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) clearance air-sampling practices used at 20 asbestos-abatement sites in New Jersey. Each abatement took place in a school building and involved removal of surfacing material, thermal system insulation, or suspended ceiling tiles. Final cleaning practices tend to be similar among abatement contractors. Meticulous attention to detail in cleaning practices is important to a successful final cleaning. Sites passing a stringent 'no-dust' criterion of a thorough visual inspection are more likely to pass the AHERA transmission electron microscopy clearance test. AHERA sampling and analytical requirements and recommendations are not completely understood and followed by consultants conducting clearance air monitoring. Matrices are provided that cross-reference case history information on final cleaning procedures, visual inspections, and AHERA clearance practices at these sites.