Why is dry sweeping or dry brushing of asbestos materials prohibited?

• A. It generates large amounts of airborne asbestos fibers and violates best practices
• B. It is an accepted method if done carefully
• C. It is permitted when no one is nearby
• D. It is required for some types of ACM

Answer: (A)

Dry sweeping or dry brushing is prohibited because disturbing asbestos-containing materials without moisture releases many fibers into the air, creating a high inhalation risk for workers and anyone nearby. Wet cleaning methods or HEPA-filtered vacuuming minimize fiber release by keeping fibers adhered to surfaces and then capturing them, which is why such methods are required by safety guidelines and regulations. The idea is to control and minimize airborne asbestos, not just to reduce dust momentarily.

The other options don’t fit because careful dry cleaning is not considered safe or acceptable, since any disturbance can release fibers; proximity doesn’t change the fact that fibers can become airborne and travel or settle elsewhere; and no type of ACM requires dry sweeping—proper removal always emphasizes damp cleaning or containment to limit exposure.