1.
Inhaling asbestos fibers is the major health hazard associated with asbestos.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Inhaling asbestos fibers is indeed a major health hazard associated with asbestos. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed or damaged, tiny asbestos fibers can be released into the air. These fibers, when inhaled, can become trapped in the lungs and cause serious health problems over time, including lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. Therefore, it is crucial to take proper precautions and avoid exposure to asbestos fibers to protect one's health.
2.
If asbestos is not friable, it does not present an immediate danger.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
If asbestos is not friable, it means that it is not easily crumbled or turned into powder. Asbestos becomes dangerous when its fibers are released into the air and can be inhaled. If asbestos is not friable, it is less likely to release fibers and therefore does not present an immediate danger. Therefore, the statement "If asbestos is not friable, it does not present an immediate danger" is true.
3.
Smoking greatly increases the risk of contracting a serious disease for people who work around asbestos.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Exposure to asbestos is known to cause serious diseases such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. Smoking further increases the risk of developing these diseases, as it damages the lungs and weakens the immune system. Therefore, it is true that smoking greatly increases the risk of contracting a serious disease for people who work around asbestos.
4.
You don’t need a respirator—a dust mask will do—if you will be in a restricted area for less than 15 minutes.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement says that a dust mask will suffice if you will be in a restricted area for less than 15 minutes. This implies that a respirator is not necessary for short durations. Therefore, the correct answer is False, as it contradicts the statement provided.
5.
You should wet asbestos waste before disposal.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Wetting asbestos waste before disposal is not recommended because it can create a slurry or paste that is more difficult to handle and can potentially release asbestos fibers into the air. It is recommended to carefully package and seal asbestos waste in leak-tight containers to prevent the release of fibers during transportation and disposal.
6.
Good housekeeping requires you to sweep up asbestos-containing waste frequently.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Good housekeeping requires regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure a safe and clean environment. Asbestos-containing waste can pose a serious health risk if not properly managed. Sweeping up asbestos-containing waste frequently helps to prevent the release of asbestos fibers into the air, reducing the risk of inhalation and potential health hazards. Therefore, it is true that good housekeeping requires the regular sweeping up of asbestos-containing waste.
7.
Employers are in compliance with OSHA regulations if they supply their employers with respirators and protective clothing.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
This statement is false because simply supplying employees with respirators and protective clothing does not guarantee compliance with OSHA regulations. Employers must also ensure that the respirators and protective clothing are appropriate for the specific hazards present in the workplace, provide proper training on their use, and establish a comprehensive respiratory protection program. Merely providing the equipment without these additional measures would not meet OSHA requirements.
8.
One engineering control that helps reduce airborne asbestos fibers is a good ventilation and dust control system.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
A good ventilation and dust control system is an effective engineering control method for reducing airborne asbestos fibers. This system helps to circulate clean air and remove any dust particles or asbestos fibers present in the air. By doing so, it minimizes the risk of inhalation and exposure to asbestos, which can lead to serious health issues such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. Therefore, the statement is true.
9.
Asbestos is still used widely because its fibers are tough, flexible, and heat- and fireresistant.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement suggests that asbestos is still widely used because of its desirable properties such as toughness, flexibility, and heat and fire resistance. However, this is not true. Asbestos is no longer widely used due to its harmful health effects, particularly its link to lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. Many countries have banned or restricted the use of asbestos in various industries. Therefore, the correct answer is false.
10.
10. Asbestosis and mesothelioma are two fatal lung diseases caused by exposure to asbestos.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Exposure to asbestos can lead to the development of two fatal lung diseases, asbestosis and mesothelioma. Asbestosis is a chronic lung condition characterized by scarring and inflammation of the lung tissue, which can cause difficulty in breathing and lead to respiratory failure. Mesothelioma, on the other hand, is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. Both diseases have been linked to asbestos exposure and can have serious consequences for the affected individuals. Therefore, the statement "Asbestosis and mesothelioma are two fatal lung diseases caused by exposure to asbestos" is true.