OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewHealth Hazards in ConstructionMedium
A construction worker is performing tasks in an older building and encounters a material that is presumed to contain asbestos. According to OSHA regulations, what is the 'Competent Person' specifically responsible for regarding asbestos hazards?
- AIdentifying asbestos hazards, ensuring compliance, and performing frequent inspections.
- BProviding all workers with N95 respirators for asbestos exposure.
- CDeveloping and implementing the overall asbestos abatement plan.
- DConducting air sampling and laboratory analysis of asbestos-containing materials.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Identifying asbestos hazards, ensuring compliance, and performing frequent inspections.
OSHA defines a 'Competent Person' for asbestos as one who is capable of identifying existing asbestos hazards in the workplace and who has the authority to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them. This includes ensuring compliance with regulations and conducting frequent inspections.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Providing respirators is a general employer responsibility and part of PPE, but not the unique role of a Competent Person.
- C. Developing the overall abatement plan is typically the responsibility of a qualified asbestos abatement contractor or project manager, though the Competent Person is involved.
- D. Air sampling and laboratory analysis often require specialized training and certification beyond the general Competent Person requirements, typically performed by industrial hygienists or certified labs.
Asbestos Competent Person
An OSHA-defined 'Competent Person' for asbestos is someone capable of identifying asbestos hazards, authorized to take corrective action, and responsible for ensuring compliance with asbestos regulations.
- Must be specially trained in asbestos hazards.
- Has authority to correct hazards.
- Ensures compliance and conducts frequent inspections.
Memory trick: A Competent Person 'I.D.s and C.A.R.E.s' for asbestos.