OSHA's asbestos standard (29 CFR 1910.1001) requires you to inform employees who might be exposed to asbestos about the hazards and necessary precautions to prevent exposure. Although there are no specific training points identified in the standard, asbestos safety training programs should generally include the following information:

a. Hazards and health effects of asbestos

b. Locations and specific operations where asbestos might be encountered

c. Engineering controls and safe work practices

d. Exposure limits and exposure monitoring

e. Respirators and other PPE

f. Hygiene and housekeeping procedures

g. Medical surveillance program

Engineering controls should also be used to prevent exposure whenever possible, including:

a. Exhaust systems

b. Dust collection and cleaning systems

c. Hoods to cover operations

d. Tools with built-in exhaust systems

Safe work practices can help control the release of asbestos fibers. Workers should be instructed to:

a. Make sure they have properly identified any potential asbestos or asbestos-containing materials (ACM) before they start a job.

b. Wet asbestos and ACM before handling, cutting, etc.

c. Practice good housekeeping, using wet vacs with HEPA filters-never dry vacs, brooms, or compressed air.

d. Avoid drilling into ACM.

e. Avoid sanding floors or other materials containing asbestos.