If asbestos is found during a job, what is the required course of action?

When asbestos is identified during a job, the most appropriate course of action is to engage a qualified, licensed contractor for abatement. This is essential because asbestos is a hazardous material that poses significant health risks if disturbed. Professional contractors possess the necessary training, equipment, and procedures to safely remove or encapsulate asbestos while adhering to regulatory standards and guidelines.

Handling asbestos without the expertise and proper safety measures can lead to accidental exposure, which is detrimental to health. Therefore, leaving it undisturbed might sound reasonable, but it does not address the potential hazards associated with it being present in an active job site. Reporting to authorities is also important, but it usually follows the decision to manage the situation through proper abatement procedures performed by licensed professionals. Ultimately, ensuring safe removal or management of asbestos is paramount to protecting the health of workers and occupants.