Power tools used to drill, cut or disturb asbestos material in regulated abatement work areas shall be equipped with what?

• A. HEPA-filtered local exhaust
• B. Water spray nozzle
• C. Grounding strap
• D. Spark arrestor

Answer: (A)

Power tool dust control must happen at the source, so the tool is fitted with a system that captures fibers as they’re generated. HEPA-filtered local exhaust does exactly that by venting dust through a high-efficiency filter right where the cutting or drilling occurs, keeping asbestos fibers from becoming airborne and spreading beyond the containment. This engineering control is the most effective way to protect workers and the surrounding area because it actively removes fibers from the air. Water spray can help dampen dust, but it doesn’t provide the same containment of airborne fibers. Grounding straps and spark arrestors address electrical safety and ignition risks rather than the specific need to capture asbestos fibers at the source.