What consequence applies to a worker who repeatedly fails to wear a respirator during removal?

• A. Suspended or fired
• B. Written warning only
• C. No action taken
• D. Promotion or bonus

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is disciplinary action for not complying with a critical safety rule. In asbestos work, wearing a respirator during all phases of removal is essential to protect both the worker and others from inhaling asbestos fibers. If someone repeatedly refuses or fails to wear the respirator while removing contaminated PPE, the risk of exposure remains high and the safety program cannot function properly.

Because safety programs rely on consistent, ongoing compliance, employers typically use progressive discipline for violations. A single lapse might be addressed with retraining or a written warning, but when noncompliance happens repeatedly, the consequences escalate to more serious measures to protect health and enforce the rule. Suspension or termination are common outcomes in such cases to prevent continued risk and to maintain a safe work environment for everyone.

So, the appropriate consequence for repeated failure to wear a respirator during removal is suspension or firing.