Washington State Register

PERMANENT RULES

DEPARTMENT OF

LABOR AND INDUSTRIES

[Filed December 17, 1996, 11:43 a.m., effective March 1, 1997]

Date of Adoption: December 17, 1996.

Purpose: Chapter 296-62 WAC, General occupational health standards, federal-initiated Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) amendments relating to asbestos, as published in Federal Register Volume 59, Number 153, dated August 10, 1994, Federal Register Volume 60, Number 125, dated June 29, 1995, Federal Register Volume 60, Number 189, dated September 29, 1995; Federal Register Volume 60, Number 134, dated July 13, 1995; and Federal Register Volume 59, Number 23, dated February 3, 1994, are adopted. ESB 5397 (1995) also required the department adopt rules based on federal-initiated EPA amendments. These amendments have also been adopted.

Significant adopted amendments to the asbestos standard include:

Incorporation of construction and shipyard work requirements to cover occupational exposures to asbestos in those industries.

Reduction of the time-weighted permissible exposure limit to 0.1 fibers per cubic centimeter for all occupational exposures to asbestos in all industries.

Creation of a classification scheme for asbestos construction and shipyard industry work which ties mandatory work practices to the work classification.

Presumptive asbestos identification requirements for asbestos containing materials.

Communication requirements for employers who conduct asbestos abatement work.

Mandatory methods of control for brake and clutch repair.

Chapter 296-65 WAC, Safety standards for asbestos removal and encapsulation, a federal-initiated Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) amendment relating to asbestos removal and encapsulation, as published in Federal Register Volume 59, Number 23, dated February 3, 1994, is adopted to add a reference to subsection (13) of WAC 296-65-015, Training course approval. This amendment makes asbestos supervisor and worker training requirements consistent with each other and with the federal standard.

Citation of Existing Rules Affected by this Order: Amending chapter 296-62 WAC, General occupational health standards, WAC 296-62-07701 Scope and application, 296-62-07703 Definitions, 296-62-07705 Permissible exposure limits (PEL), 296-62-07706 Communication among employers, 296-62-07709 Exposure monitoring, 296-62-07711 Regulated areas, 296-62-07712 Requirements for asbestos removal, demolition, and renovation operations, 296-62-07713 Methods of compliance, 296-62-07715 Respiratory protection, 296-62-07717 Protective work clothing and equipment, 296-62-07719 Hygiene facilities and practices, 296-62-07721 Communication of hazards to employees, 296-62-07723 Housekeeping, 296-62-07725 Medical surveillance, 296-62-07727 Recordkeeping, 296-62-07733 Appendices, 296-62-07735 Appendix A--WISHA reference method--Mandatory, 296-62-07737 Appendix B--Detailed procedure for asbestos sampling and analysis--Nonmandatory, 296-62-07741, Appendix D--Medical questionnaires--Mandatory, 296-62-07745 Appendix F--Work practices and engineering controls for automotive brake repair operations--Nonmandatory, 296-62-07747 Appendix G--Substance technical information for asbestos--Nonmandatory, 296-62-07749 Appendix H--Medical surveillance guidelines for asbestos--Nonmandatory, 296-62-07751 Appendix I--Work practices and engineering controls for major asbestos removal, renovation, and demolition operations, 296-62-07753 Appendix J--Work practices and engineering controls for small scale, short duration asbestos renovation and maintenance activities, and chapter 296-65 WAC, Safety standards for asbestos removal and encapsulation, WAC 296-65-015 Training course approval; and repealing chapter 296-62 WAC, General occupational health standards, WAC 296-62-07707 Identification and 296-62-07731 Dates.

Statutory Authority for Adoption: RCW 49.17.040, [49.17.]050, [49.17.]060.

Adopted under notice filed as WSR 96-18-114 on September 4, 1996.

Changes Other than Editing from Proposed to Adopted Version: WAC 296-62-07703 Definitions.

The words "as per WAC 296-155-775(9)" are added at the end of the definition of "demolition" for clarification.

A reference is corrected from WAC 296-62-077 to 296-62-07701.

Definition of competent person: In the last sentence, the word "involving" is added after the word "work." The corrected sentence reads, "For Class III and Class IV work involving less than 3 square feet or 3 linear feet ..."

WAC 296-62-07709 Exposure monitoring.

The original words "those work" are reinstated to replace the proposed word "expected."

WAC 296-62-07709 (3)(c)(iii): The words "this paragraph" are changed to "subsection (2)(c) of this section."

Monitoring requirements in WAC 296-62-07709 (2)(d) are moved to 296-62-07709(3) which covers construction.

WAC 296-62-07711 Regulated areas.

WAC 296-62-07711(8): The reference is changed from WAC 296-62-07729 to 296-62-07728.

WAC 296-62-07712 Requirements for asbestos removal, demolition, and renovation operations.

WAC 296-62-07712 (2)(a) and (b): References to (10)(a) are corrected to (10)(b).

WAC 296-62-07712 (6)(b): A reference is changed from WAC 296-62-07711 to 296-62-07709(3).

WAC 296-62-07712 (7)(f)(i)(C): Change Room. The first two sentences are combined and modified to read, "A small change room made of 6-mil-thick polyethylene plastic should be contiguous to the mini-enclosure, and is necessary to allow the worker to vacuum off his/her protective coveralls and remove them before leaving the work area.

WAC 296-62-07712 (8)(b): The reference to (6)(b)(i) is corrected to (6)(b)(ii).

WAC 296-62-07712 (9)(b): The reference to WAC 296-62-07711 is corrected to WAC 296-62-07709(3).

WAC 296-62-07712 (10)(a): Two references are amended. The reference to WAC 296-62-07709 (3)(b) is corrected to WAC 296-62-07712 (9)(a)(ix) and the reference to WAC 296-62-07721 is corrected to WAC 296-62-07722.

WAC 296-62-07712 (10)(c): The reference to (10)(a) is corrected to (10)(b).

WAC 296-62-07712 (11)(c): A reference is changed from (7)(b) to (7).

WAC 296-62-07712(12): A reference is changed from WAC 296-62-07721 to 296-62-07722.

WAC 296-62-07712 (13)(b): A reference is changed from WAC 296-62-07721 to 296-62-07722.

WAC 296-62-07713 Methods of compliance.

The section title is changed to "Methods of compliance for asbestos activities in general industry" to clarify which industries this section applies to.

WAC 296-62-07715 Respiratory protection.

WAC 296-62-07715 (3)(a): The words "egress cartridge" are added after the words "HEPA filter" for clarification.

WAC 296-62-07715 (3)(a)(ii): The exception note is moved. It is moved under WAC 296-62-07715 (3)(b) because it applies to both (a) and (b).

WAC 296-62-07715 (3)(b): The beginning of the first sentence is modified to read, "For all Class I work excluded or not specified in (a)(i) and (ii) of this subsection, ...".

WAC 296-62-07715 (3)(b), the phrase "or HEPA filter egress cartridge" after "... breathing cartridge" is added. Also the word "filter" is added after "HEPA" in the first sentence.

WAC 296-62-07715 (5)(b): The second sentence is modified to read, "The qualitative fit tests may be used only for testing the fit of half-mask respirators where they are permitted to be worn, and shall be constructed in accordance with WAC 296-62-07739, Appendix C." This change is made to be at-least-as-effective-as OSHA.

WAC 296-62-07721 Communication of hazards to employees.

WAC 296-62-07721 (1)(a): The phrase "in WAC 296-62-077" is added after the sentence "... covered by asbestos construction work requirements."

WAC 296-62-07721 (1)(c)(ii)(B): A reference to WAC 296-62-077 is corrected to WAC 296-62-07701.

WAC 296-62-07721 (2)(a): A reference to WAC 296-62-07712 is corrected to WAC 296-62-07721(3).

WAC 296-62-07721 (2)(b)(ii)(B): A reference to WAC 296-62-077 is corrected to WAC 296-62-07701.

WAC 296-62-07721 (2)(c): An item (iii) is added and reads, "Upon written or oral request, a copy of the written report required in this section shall be made available to the department of labor and industries and the collective bargaining representatives or employee representatives of any employee who may be exposed to any asbestos or asbestos-containing materials. A copy of the written report shall be posted conspicuously at the location where employees report to work."

WAC 296-62-07721(8): The reference to WAC 296-62-07413 is corrected to WAC 296-62-05413.

WAC 296-62-07722 Employee information and training.

WAC 296-62-07722(a): The reference to WAC 296-65-003(4) is changed to WAC 296-65-003.

WAC 296-62-07722(3): This subsection is amended to read, "Training for employees performing Class I and Class II operations."

WAC 296-62-07722 (4)(a): The beginning of this sentence is amended to read, "Training for employees performing Class III and IV operations ..."

WAC 296-62-07722 (4)(b): The beginning of the first sentence is amended to read, "Training for Class III asbestos work exempted from certification requirements ..."

WAC 296-62-07722 (4)(c): The beginning of the first sentence is amended to read, "Training for Class IV asbestos work exempted from certification requirements in chapter 296-65 WAC, safety standards for asbestos removal and encapsulation shall be ..."

WAC 296-62-07728 Competent person.

WAC 296-62-07728 (4)(b)(ii): The beginning of the first sentence is amended to read, "For Class III and IV asbestos work involving less than three square feet or three linear feet of asbestos containing material, and asbestos work exempted from certification requirements in chapter 296-65 WAC, the competent person shall ..."

WAC 296-62-07735 Appendix A--WISHA reference method--Mandatory.

The words "electronically conductive" are retained in WAC 296-62-07735 (1)(b).

Air flow is changed from 0.5 liters per minute to 4.0 liters per minute.

WAC 296-62-07751 Appendix I--Work practices and engineering controls for major asbestos removal, renovation, and demolition operations.

The reference to WAC 296-62-07709 (1)(a) is corrected to WAC 296-62-07709(3).

Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Comply with Federal Statute: New 0, amended 0, repealed 0; Federal Rules or Standards: New 2, amended 25, repealed 2; or Recently Enacted State Statutes: New 0, amended 1, repealed 0.

Number of Sections Adopted at Request of a Nongovernmental Entity: New 0, amended 0, repealed 0.

Number of Sections Adopted on the Agency's own Initiative: New 0, amended 0, repealed 0.

Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Clarify, Streamline, or Reform Agency Procedures: New 0, amended 0, repealed 0.

Number of Sections Adopted using Negotiated Rule Making: New 0, amended 0, repealed 0; Pilot Rule Making: New 0, amended 0, repealed 0; or Other Alternative Rule Making: New 0, amended 0, repealed 0.

Effective Date of Rule: March 1, 1997.

December 17, 1996

Mike Watson

for Mark O. Brown

Director

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 96-05-056, filed 2/16/96, effective 4/1/96)

WAC 296-65-015 Training course approval. (1) Basic and refresher asbestos training courses may be sponsored by any individual, person, or other entity having department approval. Approval shall be contingent on the sponsor's compliance, as applicable, with licensing requirements established by the state board of vocational education.

(2) Prior to receiving department approval, each course shall be evaluated by the department for the breadth of knowledge and experience required to properly train asbestos workers or supervisors. Course content shall be carefully scrutinized for adequacy and accuracy. Training techniques will be evaluated by the department.

(3) Sponsors of basic and refresher training courses proposed for approval must submit:

(a) Background information about course sponsors;

(b) Course locations and fees;

(d) A detailed description of course content and the amount of time allotted to each major topic;

(e) A description of teaching methods to be utilized and a list of all audio-visual materials; the department may, in its discretion, request that copies of the materials be provided for review. Any audio-visual materials provided to the department will be returned to the applicant;

(f) A list of all personnel involved in course preparation and presentation and a description of the background, special training and qualifications of each. Instructors shall have academic and/or field experience in asbestos abatement. The department may, in its discretion, require proposed instructors to pass an examination on subjects related to their respective topics of instruction;

(g) A description of student evaluation methods and a copy of the required written examination including the scoring methodology to be used in grading the examination;

(h) A description of course evaluation methods;

(i) Any restrictions on attendance (language, class size, affiliation, etc.);

(j) A list of any other states that currently approve the training course;

(k) A letter from the course provider that clearly indicates how the course provider meets the EPA MAP requirements; and

(l) The amount and type of hands-on training for initial training courses.

(4) Application for training course approval and course materials shall be submitted to the department at least sixty days prior to the requested approval date. Materials may be mailed to:

Asbestos Certification Program

Department of Labor and

Industries

P.O. Box 44614

Olympia, Washington 98504-4614

(5) The decision to grant or renew approval of a basic or refresher asbestos training course shall be in the sole discretion of the department.

Following approval of a basic or refresher asbestos training course, the department will issue the course sponsor an approval which is valid for one year from the date of issuance. Application for renewal must follow the procedures described in subsections (3) and (4) of this section.

Following approval of a basic or refresher asbestos training course, in recognition that asbestos abatement is an evolving industry, the department reserves the right to require additional subjects to be taught and to specify the amount of time which shall be allotted to adequately cover required subjects. To assure adequate coverage of required material, each sponsor shall be provided and required to incorporate into their training course, a detailed outline of subject matter developed by the department.

(6) To be considered timely, the training course approval renewal must be received by the department no later than thirty days before the certificate expiration date.

(7) Any changes to a training course must be approved by the department in advance.

(8) The course sponsor shall provide the department with a list of all persons who have completed a basic or refresher training course. The list must be provided no later than ten days after a course is completed and must include the name and address of each trainee.

(9) The course sponsor must notify the department, in writing, at least fourteen days before a training course is scheduled to begin. The notification must include the date, time and address where the training will be conducted.

(10) A representative of the department may, at the department's discretion, attend a training course as an observer to verify that the training course is conducted in accordance with the program approved by the department.

(11) Course sponsors conducting training outside the state of Washington shall reimburse the department for reasonable travel expenses associated with department audits of the training courses. Reasonable travel expenses are defined as current state of Washington per diem and travel allowance rates including airfare and/or surface transportation rates. Such reimbursement shall be paid within thirty days of receipt of the billing notice.

(12) The training course sponsor shall limit each class to a maximum of thirty participants.

(13) The instructor to student ratio shall not exceed one-to-ten for any of the training required by WAC 296-65-005(13) and 296-65-007(14).

(14) The department may terminate the training course approval, if in the department's judgment the sponsor fails to maintain the course content and quality as initially approved, or fails to make changes to a course as required by WAC 296-65-015(5). The minimum criteria for withdrawal of training course approval shall include:

(a) Misrepresentation of the extent of training courses approval by a state or EPA;

(b) Failure to submit required information or notification in a timely manner;

(d) Falsification of accreditation records, instructor qualifications, or other accreditation information; or

(e) Failure to adhere to the training standards and accreditation requirements of chapter 296-65 WAC.

(15) Any "notice of termination of training course approval" issued by the department may act as an order of immediate restraint as described by RCW 49.17.130.

(16) Recordkeeping requirements for training providers: All approved providers of accredited asbestos training courses must comply with the following minimum recordkeeping requirements:

(a) Training course materials. A training provider must retain copies of all instructional materials used in delivery of the classroom training such as student manuals, instructor notebooks and handouts.

(b) Instructor qualifications. A training provider must retain copies of all instructors' resumes, and the documents approving each instructor issued by either EPA or the department. Instructors must be approved by the department before teaching courses for accreditation purposes. A training provider must notify the department in advance whenever it changes course instructors. Records must accurately identify the instructors that taught each particular course for each date that a course is offered.

(c) Examinations. A training provider must document that each person who receives an accreditation certificate for an initial training course has achieved a passing score on the examination. These records must clearly indicate the date upon which the exam was administered, the training course and discipline for which the exam was given, the name of the person who proctored the exam, a copy of the exam, and the name and test score of each person taking the exam. The topic and dates of the training course must correspond to those listed on that person's accreditation certificate.

(d) Accreditation certificates. The training providers shall maintain records that document the names of all persons who have been awarded certificates, their certificate numbers, the disciplines for which accreditation was conferred, training and expiration dates, and the training location. The training provider shall maintain the records in a manner that allows verification by telephone of the required information.

(e) Verification of certificate information. Training providers of refresher training courses shall confirm that their students possess valid accreditation before granting course admission.

(f) Records retention and access.

(i) The training provider shall maintain all required records for a minimum of three years. The training provider, however, may find it advantageous to retain these records for a longer period of time.

(ii) The training provider must allow reasonable access to all of the records required by the MAP, and to any other records which may be required by the department for the approval of asbestos training providers or the accreditation of asbestos training courses, to both EPA and to the department, on request.

(iii) If a training provider ceases to conduct training, the training provider shall notify the department and give it the opportunity to take possession of that provider's asbestos training records.

(17) A representative of the department may, at the department's discretion, provide an examination as a substitution to the examination administered by the training course provider. The examination replacement will be used to verify that the training course is conducted in accordance with the program approved by the department.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, [49.17.]050 and [49.17.]060. 96-05-056, 296-65-015, filed 2/16/96, effective 4/1/96. Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 89-21-018 (Order 89-10), 296-65-015, filed 10/10/89, effective 11/24/89; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-65-015, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-65-015, filed 4/27/87. Statutory Authority: SSB 4209, 1985 c 387. 85-21-080 (Order 85-30), 296-65-015, filed 10/22/85.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 87-24, filed 11/30/87)

WAC 296-62-07701 Scope and application. (1) WAC ((~~296-62-07701~~)) 296-62-07701 through 296-62-07753 applies to all occupational exposures to asbestos in all industries covered by the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act.

(2) This section does apply to construction work as defined in WAC 296-155-012.

(3) This section does apply to ship repairing, shipbuilding and shipbreaking employments and related employments as defined in WAC 296-304-01001.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07701, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07701, filed 4/27/87.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 89-10, filed 10/10/89, effective 11/24/89)

WAC 296-62-07703 Definitions. For the purpose of WAC ((~~296-62-077~~)) 296-62-07701 through 296-62-07753:

((~~(1) "Action level" means an airborne concentration of asbestos of 0.1 fiber per cubic centimeter (f/cc) of air calculated as an eight-hour time-weighted average.~~

(2) "Air lock" means a system for ingress or egress to minimize air movement between a contaminated area and an uncontaminated area, consisting of an enclosure with two curtained doorways at least six feet apart unless space prohibits.

~~(3) "~~)) Accredited inspector means any person meeting the accreditation requirements of the Federal Toxic Substance Control Act, Section 206(a)(1) and (3). 15 U.S.C. 2646(a)(1) and (3).

Aggressive method means removal or disturbance of building material by sanding, abrading, grinding or other method that breaks, crumbles, or disintegrates intact ACM.

Amended water means water to which surfactant (wetting agent) has been added to increase the ability of the liquid to penetrate ACM.

Asbestos((")) includes chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, tremolite asbestos, anthophyllite asbestos, actinolite asbestos, and any of these minerals that have been chemically treated and/or altered.

((~~(4) "~~)) For purposes of this standard, "asbestos" includes PACM, as defined below.

Asbestos abatement project means an asbestos project involving three square feet or three linear feet, or more, of asbestos-containing material.

Asbestos-containing material (ACM) means any material containing more than 1% asbestos.

Asbestos project - definition as stated in WAC 296-65-003.

Authorized person((")) means any person authorized by the employer and required by work duties to be present in regulated areas.

((~~(5) "Clean room" means an uncontaminated room having facilities for the storage of employees' street clothing and uncontaminated materials and equipment.~~

~~(6) "~~)) Building/facility/vessel owner means any legal entity or person who owns any public or private building, vessel, structure, facility, or mechanical system or the remnants thereof, including the agent of such person, but does not include individuals who work on asbestos projects in their own single-family residences, no part of which is used for commercial purposes. Also included is any lessee, who exercises control over management and recordkeeping functions relating to a building, vessel, and/or facility in which activities covered by this standard takes place.

Certified asbestos supervisor((")) means an individual certified by the department under WAC 296-65-012. ((This person shall be capable of identifying existing asbestos hazards in the workplace and have the authority to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them, as specified in WAC 296-62-202(6). The duties of the asbestos supervisor include at least the following: Establishing the negative-pressure enclosure, mini-enclosure, glove bag, or any other engineering control used in an asbestos removal or encapsulation operation; ensuring the integrity of the control being used; supervising any employee monitoring required by the standard; ensuring that all employees involved in removal or encapsulation of asbestos wear the appropriate protective equipment, are trained in the use of appropriate methods of exposure control, and use the hygiene facilities and decontamination procedures specified in the standard; and ensuring that engineering controls in use are in proper operating condition and are functioning properly.

(7) "Curtained doorway" means overlapping plastic sheeting curtains, at least four mils in thickness, constructed and used at entrance and exit of regulated areas, and designed to restrict the movement of air from one area to another.

~~(8) "~~)) Certified asbestos worker means an individual certified by the department under WAC 296-65-010.

Certified industrial hygienist (CIH) means one certified in the practice of industrial hygiene by the American Board of Industrial Hygiene.

Class I asbestos work means activities involving the removal of thermal system insulation or surfacing ACM/PACM.

Class II asbestos work means activities involving the removal of ACM which is not thermal system insulation or surfacing material. This includes, but is not limited to, the removal of asbestos-containing wallboard, floor tile and sheeting, roofing and siding shingles, and construction mastics.

Class III asbestos work means repair and maintenance operations where "ACM," including TSI and surfacing ACM and PACM, may be disturbed.

Class IV asbestos work means maintenance and custodial activities during which employees contact but do not disturb ACM or PACM and activities to clean up dust, waste and debris resulting from Class I, II, and III activities.

Clean room means an uncontaminated room having facilities for the storage of employees' street clothing and uncontaminated materials and equipment.

Closely resemble means that the major workplace conditions which have contributed to the levels of historic asbestos exposure, are no more protective than conditions of the current workplace.

Competent person means, in addition to the definition in WAC 296-62-07728, one who is capable of identifying existing asbestos, hazards in the workplace and selecting the appropriate control strategy for asbestos exposure, who has the authority to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them as specified in WAC 296-62-07728. The competent person shall be certified as an asbestos supervisor in compliance with WAC 296-65-030(3) and 296-65-012 for Class I and Class II work, and for Class III and Class IV work involving 3 square feet or 3 linear feet or more of asbestos-containing material. For Class III and Class IV work, involving less than 3 square feet or 3 linear feet, the competent person shall be trained in an operations and maintenance (O&M) course which meets the criteria of EPA (40 CFR 763.92(a)(2)).

Critical barrier means one or more layers of plastic sealed over all openings into a work area or any other similarly placed physical barrier sufficient to prevent airborne asbestos in a work area from migrating to an adjacent area.

Decontamination area((")) means an enclosed area adjacent and connected to the regulated area and consisting of an equipment room, shower area, and clean room, which is used for the decontamination of workers, materials, and equipment contaminated with asbestos.

((~~(9) "~~))Demolition((")) means the wrecking or taking out of any load-supporting structural member and any related razing, removing, or stripping of asbestos products. Where feasible, asbestos-containing materials shall be removed from all structures prior to the commencement of any demolition activity as per WAC 296-155-775(9).

((~~(10) "~~))Department((")) means the department of labor and industries.

((~~(11) "~~))Director((")) means the director of the department of labor and industries or his/her authorized representative.

((~~(12) "~~)) Director of NIOSH means the Director, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, or designee.

Disturbance means activities that disrupt the matrix of ACM or PACM, crumble or pulverize ACM or PACM, or generate visible debris from ACM or PACM. This term includes activities that disrupt the matrix of ACM or PACM, render ACM or PACM friable, or generate visible debris. Disturbance includes cutting away small amounts of ACM or PACM, no greater than the amount which can be contained in one standard size glove bag or waste bag in order to access a building or vessel component. In no event shall the amount of ACM or PACM so disturbed exceed that which can be contained in one glove bag or waste bag which shall not exceed 60 inches in length and width.

Employee exposure((")) means that exposure to airborne asbestos that would occur if the employee were not using respiratory protective equipment.

((~~(13) "~~))Equipment room((")) (change room) means a contaminated room located within the decontamination area that is supplied with impermeable bags or containers for the disposal of contaminated protective clothing and equipment.

((~~(14) "~~))Fiber((")) means a particulate form of asbestos, five micrometers or longer, with a length-to-diameter ratio of at least three to one.

((~~(15) "~~)) Glove bag means not more than a 60 x 60 inch impervious plastic bag-like enclosure affixed around an asbestos-containing material, with glove-like appendages through which material and tools may be handled.

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter((")) means a filter capable of trapping and retaining at least 99.97 percent of all monodispersed particles of 0.3 micrometers mean aerodynamic diameter or larger.

(((16) "Owner" means the person who owns any public or private building, structure, facility, or mechanical system, or the remnants thereof, or the agent of such person, but does not include individuals who work on asbestos projects in their own single-family residences, no part of which is used for commercial purposes.

~~(17) "~~)) Homogeneous area means an area of surfacing material or thermal system insulation that is uniform in color and texture.

Industrial hygienist means a professional qualified by education, training, and experience to anticipate, recognize, evaluate and develop controls for occupational health hazards.

Intact means that the ACM has not crumbled, been pulverized, or otherwise deteriorated so that the asbestos is no longer likely to be bound with its matrix.

Modification for the purpose of WAC 296-62-07712 means a changed or altered procedure, material or component of a control system, which replaces a procedure, material or component of a required system. Omitting a procedure or component, or reducing or diminishing the stringency or strength of a material or component of the control system is not a "modification" for the purposes of WAC 296-62-07712.

Negative initial exposure assessment means a demonstration by the employer (which complies with the criteria in WAC 296-62-07709) that employee exposure during an operation is expected to be consistently below the PELs.

PACM means "presumed asbestos-containing material."

Presumed asbestos-containing material means thermal system insulation and surfacing material found in buildings, vessels, and vessel sections constructed no later than 1980. The designation of a material as "PACM" may be rebutted pursuant to WAC 296-62-07721.

Project designer means a person who has successfully completed the training requirements for an abatement project designer established by 40 U.S.C. 763.90(g).

Regulated area((")) means an area established by the employer to demarcate areas where ((airborne concentrations of asbestos exceed, or can reasonably be expected to exceed, the permissible exposure limits. The regulated area may take the form of (a) a temporary enclosure, as required by WAC 296-62-07711, or (b) an area demarcated in any manner that minimizes the number of employees exposed to asbestos)) Class I, II, and III asbestos work is conducted, and any adjoining area where debris and waste from such asbestos work accumulate; and a work area within which airborne concentrations of asbestos, exceed or can reasonably be expected to exceed the permissible exposure limit. Requirements for regulated areas are set out in WAC 296-62-07711.

((~~(18) "~~))Removal((")) means ((~~the taking out or stripping of asbestos or materials containing asbestos~~)) all operations where ACM and/or PACM is taken out or stripped from structures or substrates, and includes demolition operations.

(((~~19) "~~))Renovation((")) means the modifying of any existing ((~~structure, or portion thereof, where exposure to airborne asbestos may result~~)) vessel, vessel section, structure, or portion thereof.

((~~(20) "~~))Repair((")) means overhauling, rebuilding, reconstructing, or reconditioning of ((~~structure or substrates where asbestos is present~~)) vessels, vessel sections, structures or substrates, including encapsulation or other repair of ACM or PACM attached to vessels, vessel sections, structures or substrates.

((~~(21) "Structural member" means any load-supporting or nonload-supporting member of a facility such as beams, walls, and ceilings.~~)) Surfacing material means material that is sprayed, troweled-on or otherwise applied to surfaces (such as acoustical plaster on ceilings and fireproofing materials on structural members, or other materials on surfaces for acoustical, fireproofing, and other purposes).

Surfacing ACM means surfacing material which contains more than 1% asbestos.

Thermal system insulation (TSI) means ACM applied to pipes, fittings, boilers, breaching, tanks, ducts, or other structural components to prevent heat loss or gain.

Thermal system insulation ACM is thermal system insulation which contains more than 1% asbestos.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 89-21-018 (Order 89-10), 296-62-07703, filed 10/10/89, effective 11/24/89; 89-11-035 (Order 89-03), 296-62-07703, filed 5/15/89, effective 6/30/89; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07703, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07703, filed 4/27/87.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 89-03, filed 5/15/89, effective 6/30/89)

WAC 296-62-07705 Permissible exposure limits (PEL). (1) Time weighted average (TWA)((:)). The employer shall ensure that no employee is exposed to an airborne concentration of asbestos in excess of ((~~0.2~~)) 0.1 fiber per cubic centimeter (((~~0.2~~)) 0.1 f/cc) of air as an eight-hour time-weighted average (TWA) as determined by the method prescribed in ((~~WAC 296-62-07735,~~)) Appendix A of this part, or by an equivalent method recognized by the department.

(2) Excursion limit. The employer shall ensure that no employee is exposed to an airborne concentration of asbestos in excess of 1.0 fiber per cubic centimeter of air (1 f/cc) as averaged over a sampling period of ((~~fifteen~~)) thirty minutes, as determined by the method prescribed in Appendix A of this part, or by an equivalent method recognized by the department.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 89-11-035 (Order 89-03), 296-62-07705, filed 5/15/89, effective 6/30/89; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07705, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07705, filed 4/27/87.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 94-16-145, filed 8/3/94, effective 9/12/94)

WAC 296-62-07706 ((~~Communication among employers.~~)) Multi-employer worksites. (1) On multi-employer worksites, an employer performing ((~~asbestos~~)) work requiring the establishment of a regulated area shall inform other employers on the site of the nature of the employer's work with asbestos and/or PACM, of the existence of and requirements pertaining to regulated areas((.

~~Note: Notified employers shall ensure their employees are informed and trained as required by the hazard communication standard, chapter 296-62 WAC, Part C.~~)), and the measures taken to ensure that employees of such other employers are not exposed to asbestos.

(2) Asbestos hazards at a multi-employer worksite shall be abated by the employer who created or controls the source of asbestos contamination. For example, if there is a significant breach of an enclosure containing Class I work, the employer responsible for erecting the enclosure shall repair the breach immediately.

(3) In addition, all employers of employees exposed to asbestos hazards shall comply with applicable protective provisions to protect their employees. For example, if employees working immediately adjacent to a Class I asbestos job are exposed to asbestos due to the inadequate containment of such jobs, their employer shall either remove the employees from the area until the enclosure breach is repaired; or perform an initial exposure assessment pursuant to WAC 296-62-07709.

(4) All employers of employees working adjacent to regulated areas established by another employer on a multi-employer worksite, shall take steps on a daily basis to ascertain the integrity of the enclosure and/or the effectiveness of the control method relied on by the primary asbestos contractor to assure that asbestos fibers do not migrate to such adjacent areas.

(5) All general contractors on a construction project which includes work covered by this standard shall be deemed to exercise general supervisory authority over the work covered by this standard, even though the general contractor is not qualified to serve as the asbestos "competent person" as defined by WAC 296-62-07703. As supervisor of the entire project, the general contractor shall ascertain whether the asbestos contractor is in compliance with this standard, and shall require such contractor to come into compliance with this standard when necessary.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 94-16-145, 296-62-07706, filed 8/3/94, effective 9/12/94; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07706, filed 11/30/87.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 89-03, filed 5/15/89, effective 6/30/89)

WAC 296-62-07709 Exposure assessment and monitoring. (1) General monitoring criteria.

(a) Each employer who has a workplace or work operation where exposure monitoring is required under this section shall perform monitoring to determine accurately the airborne concentrations of asbestos to which employees may be exposed.

(b) Determinations of employee exposure shall be made from breathing zone air samples that are representative of the eight-hour TWA and ((~~fifteen~~)) thirty minute short-term exposures of each employee.

(c) Representative eight-hour TWA employee exposures shall be determined on the basis of one or more samples representing full-shift exposure((s)) for each shift for each employee in each job classification in each work area.

(d) Representative ((~~fifteen~~)) thirty minute short-term employee exposures shall be determined on the basis of one or more samples representing ((~~fifteen~~)) thirty minute exposures associated with operations that are most likely to produce exposures above the excursion limit for each shift for each job classification in each work area.

((~~(e) Prior to the start of the removal, demolition, or renovation project, representative area monitoring shall be conducted for later use (see WAC 296-62-07713 (2)(c)).~~))

(2) Exposure monitoring requirements for all occupational exposures to asbestos in all industries covered by the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act except construction work, as defined in WAC 296-155-012, and except ship repairing, shipbuilding and shipbreaking employments and related employments as defined in WAC 296-304-01001.

(a) Initial monitoring.

((~~(a)~~)) (i) Each employer who has a workplace or work operation covered by this standard, except as provided for in ((~~(b) and (c)~~)) (a)(ii) and (iii) of this subsection, shall perform initial monitoring of employees who are, or may reasonably be expected to be exposed to airborne concentrations at or above the ((~~action level~~)) TWA permissible exposure limit and/or excursion limit. The initial monitoring shall be at the initiation of each asbestos job to accurately determine the airborne concentration of asbestos to which employees may be exposed.

((~~(b)~~)) (ii) Where the employer or his/her representative has monitored after ((~~December 20, 1985,~~)) March 31, 1992, for the TWA permissible exposure limit and/or excursion limit, and the monitoring satisfies all other requirements of this section, and the monitoring data was obtained during work operations conducted under workplace conditions closely resembling the processes, type of material including percentage of asbestos, control methods, work practices, and environmental conditions used and prevailing in the employer's current operations, the employer may rely on such earlier monitoring results to satisfy the requirements of (a)(i) of this subsection((~~, except for employees engaged in removal, demolition, or renovation operations using negative-pressure enclosures as required by WAC 296-62-07712~~)).

((~~(c)~~)) (iii) Where the employer has relied upon objective data that demonstrates that asbestos is not capable of being released in airborne concentrations at or above the ((~~action level~~)) TWA permissible exposure limit and/or excursion limit under those work conditions of processing, use, or handling expected to have the greatest potential for releasing asbestos, then no initial monitoring is required.

((~~(3)~~)) (b) Monitoring frequency (periodic monitoring) and patterns. After the initial determinations required by subsection (2)(a)(i) of this section, samples shall be of such frequency and pattern as to represent with reasonable accuracy the levels of exposure of the employees. ((~~(a)~~)) In no case shall sampling be at intervals greater than six months for employees whose exposures may reasonably be foreseen to exceed the ((~~action level~~)) TWA permissible exposure limit and/or excursion limit.

((~~(b)~~)) (c) Daily monitoring within regulated areas: The employer shall conduct daily monitoring that is representative of the exposure of each employee who is assigned to work within a regulated area. Exception: When all employees within a regulated area are equipped with full facepiece supplied-air respirators operated in the pressure-demand mode equipped with either an auxiliary positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus or a HEPA filter, the employer may dispense with the daily monitoring required by this subsection.

(((c) Monitoring outside negative-pressure enclosures: The employer shall conduct representative area monitoring of the airborne fiber levels at least every other day at the HEPA machine exhaust and entrance to the decontamination area.

~~(4)~~)) (d) Changes in monitoring frequency. If either the initial or the periodic monitoring required by subsection((s)) (2)(a) and ((~~(3)~~)) (b) of this section statistically indicates that employee exposures are below the ((~~action level~~)) TWA permissible exposure limit and/or excursion limit, the employer may discontinue the monitoring for those employees whose exposures are represented by such monitoring.

((~~(5)~~)) (e) Additional monitoring. Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection((s)) (2)((~~(b) and (4)~~)) (a)(ii) and (c) of this section, the employer shall institute the exposure monitoring required under subsection((s)) (2)(a)(i) and ((~~(3)~~)) (ii) of this section whenever there has been a change in the production, process, control equipment, personnel, or work practices that may result in new or additional exposures above the ((~~action level~~)) TWA permissible exposure limit and/or excursion limit, or when the employer has any reason to suspect that a change may result in new or additional exposures above the ((~~action level~~)) TWA permissible exposure limit and/or excursion limit.

((~~(6)~~)) (3) Exposure assessment monitoring requirements for all construction work as defined in WAC 296-155-012 and for all ship repairing, shipbuilding and shipbreaking employments and related employments as defined in WAC 296-304-01001.

(a) Initial exposure assessment.

(i) Each employer who has a workplace or work operation covered by this standard shall ensure that a "competent person" conducts an exposure assessment immediately before or at the initiation of the operation to ascertain expected exposures during that operation or workplace. The assessment must be completed in time to comply with the requirements which are triggered by exposure data or lack of a "negative exposure assessment," and to provide information necessary to assure that all control systems planned are appropriate for that operation and will work properly.

(ii) Basis of initial exposure assessment: Unless a negative exposure assessment has been made pursuant to (b) of this subsection, the initial exposure assessment shall, if feasible, be based on monitoring conducted pursuant to (b) of this subsection. The assessment shall take into consideration both the monitoring results and all observations, information or calculations which indicate employee exposure to asbestos, including any previous monitoring conducted in the workplace, or of the operations of the employer which indicate the levels of airborne asbestos likely to be encountered on the job. For Class I asbestos work, until the employer conducts exposure monitoring and documents that employees on that job will not be exposed in excess of the PELs, or otherwise makes a negative exposure assessment pursuant to (b) of this subsection, the employer shall presume that employees are exposed in excess of the TWA and excursion limit.

(b) Negative exposure assessment: For any one specific asbestos job which will be performed by employees who have been trained in compliance with the standard, the employer may demonstrate that employee exposures will be below the PELs by data which conform to the following criteria:

(i) Objective data demonstrating that the products or material containing asbestos minerals or the activity involving such product or material cannot release airborne fibers in concentrations exceeding the TWA and excursion limit under those work conditions having the greatest potential for releasing asbestos; or

(ii) Where the employer has monitored prior asbestos jobs for the PEL and the excursion limit within 12 months of the current or projected job, the monitoring and analysis were performed in compliance with the asbestos standard in effect; and the data was obtained during work operations conducted under workplace conditions "closely resembling" the processes, type of material including percentage of asbestos, control methods, work practices, and environmental conditions used and prevailing in the employer's current operations, the operations were conducted by employees whose training and experience are no more extensive than that of employees performing the current job, and these data show that under the conditions prevailing and which will prevail in the current workplace there is a high degree of certainty that employee exposures will not exceed the TWA or excursion limit; or

(iii) The results of initial exposure monitoring of the current job made from breathing zone samples that are representative of the 8-hour TWA and 30-minute short-term exposures of each employee covering operations which are most likely during the performance of the entire asbestos job to result in exposures over the PELs; or

(iv) Monitoring outside negative-pressure enclosures: The employer shall conduct representative area monitoring of the airborne fiber levels at least every other day at the HEPA machine exhaust and entrance to the decontamination area.

(i) Class I and Class II operations. The employer shall conduct daily monitoring that is representative of the exposure of each employee who is assigned to work within a regulated area who is performing Class I or II work, unless the employer pursuant to (b) of this subsection, has made a negative exposure assessment for the entire operation.

(ii) All operations under the standard other than Class I and II operations. The employer shall conduct periodic monitoring of all work where exposures are expected to exceed a PEL, at intervals sufficient to document the validity of the exposure prediction.

(iii) Exception. When all employees required to be monitored daily are equipped with supplied-air respirators operated in the pressure demand mode, the employer may dispense with the daily monitoring required by subsection (2)(c) of this section. However, employees performing Class I work using a control method which is not listed in WAC 296-62-07712 of this section or using a modification of a listed control method, shall continue to be monitored daily even if they are equipped with supplied-air respirators.

(d) Termination of monitoring. If the periodic monitoring required by (c) of this subsection reveals that employee exposures, as indicated by statistically reliable measurements, are below the permissible exposure limit and excursion limit the employer may discontinue monitoring for those employees whose exposures are represented by such monitoring.

(e) Additional monitoring. Notwithstanding the provisions of (b), (c), and (d) of this subsection, the employer shall institute the exposure monitoring required under (c) of this subsection whenever there has been a change in process, control equipment, personnel or work practices that may result in new or additional exposures above the permissible exposure limit and/or excursion limit or when the employer has any reason to suspect that a change may result in new or additional exposures above the permissible exposure limit and/or excursion limit. Such additional monitoring is required regardless of whether a "negative exposure assessment" was previously produced for a specific job.

(f) Prior to the start of the removal, demolition, or renovation project, representative area monitoring shall be conducted for later use (see WAC 296-62-07712 (5)(c).

(4) Method of monitoring.

(a) All samples taken to satisfy the monitoring requirements of this section shall be personal samples collected following the procedures specified in WAC 296-62-07735, Appendix A.

(b) Monitoring shall be performed by persons having a thorough understanding of monitoring principles and procedures and who can demonstrate proficiency in sampling techniques.

(c) All samples taken to satisfy the monitoring requirements of this section shall be evaluated using the WISHA reference method specified in WAC 296-62-07735, Appendix A, or an equivalent counting method recognized by the department.

(d) If an equivalent method to the WISHA reference method is used, the employer shall ensure that the method meets the following criteria:

(i) Replicate exposure data used to establish equivalency are collected in side-by-side field and laboratory comparisons; and

(ii) The comparison indicates that ninety percent of the samples collected in the range ((~~0.1 to 0.4 f/cc~~)) 0.5 to 2.0 times the permissible limit have an accuracy range of plus or minus twenty-five percent of the WISHA reference method results ((~~with~~)) at a ninety-five percent confidence level as demonstrated by a statistically valid protocol; and

(iii) The equivalent method is documented and the results of the comparison testing are maintained.

(e) To satisfy the monitoring requirements of this section, employers must use the results of monitoring analysis performed by laboratories which have instituted quality assurance programs that include the elements as prescribed in WAC 296-62-07735, Appendix A.

((~~(7)~~)) (5) Employee notification of monitoring results.

(a) The employer shall, as soon as possible but no later than within fifteen working days after the receipt of the results of any monitoring performed under the standard, notify the affected employees of these results in writing either individually or by posting of results in an appropriate location that is accessible to affected employees.

(b) The written notification required by (a) of this subsection shall contain the corrective action being taken by the employer to reduce employee exposure to or below the ((~~permissible~~)) TWA and/or excursion exposure limits, wherever monitoring results indicated that the ((~~permissible~~)) TWA and/or excursion exposure limits ((~~have~~)) had been exceeded.

((~~(8)~~)) (6) Observation of monitoring.

(a) The employer shall provide affected employees or their designated representatives an opportunity to observe any monitoring of employee exposure to asbestos conducted in accordance with this section.

(b) When observation of the monitoring of employee exposure to asbestos requires entry into an area where the use of protective clothing or equipment is required, the observer shall be provided with and be required to use such clothing and equipment and shall comply with all other applicable safety and health procedures.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 89-11-035 (Order 89-03), 296-62-07709, filed 5/15/89, effective 6/30/89; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07709, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07709, filed 4/27/87.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 95-04-007, filed 1/18/95, effective 3/1/95)

WAC 296-62-07711 Regulated areas. (1) General. The employer shall establish a regulated area in work areas where airborne concentrations of asbestos exceed or can reasonably be expected to exceed the permissible exposure limits prescribed in WAC 296-62-07705. All Class I, II and III asbestos work shall be conducted within regulated areas. All other operations covered by this standard shall be conducted within the regulated area where airborne concentrations of asbestos exceed or can reasonably be expected to exceed permissible exposure limits. Regulated areas shall comply with the requirements of subsections (2), (3), (4), (5), (6), (7), and (8) of this section.

(2) ((Demarcation. The regulated area shall be demarcated in any manner that minimizes the number of persons within the area and protects persons outside the area from exposure to airborne concentrations of asbestos in excess of the permissible exposure limits.)) Demarcation. The regulated area shall be demarcated in any manner that minimizes the number of persons within the area and protects persons outside the area from exposure to airborne asbestos. Where critical barriers or negative pressure enclosures are used, they may demarcate the regulated area. Signs shall be provided and displayed pursuant to the requirements of WAC 296-62-07721.

(3) Access. Access to regulated areas shall be limited to authorized persons or to persons authorized by the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act or regulations issued pursuant thereto.

(4) Provision of respirators. Each person entering a regulated area shall be supplied with and required to use a respirator, selected in accordance with WAC 296-62-07715.

(5) Protective clothing. All persons entering a regulated area shall be supplied with and required to wear protective clothing, selected in accordance with WAC 296-62-07717.

(6) Prohibited activities. The employer shall ensure that employees do not eat, drink, smoke, chew tobacco or gum, or apply cosmetics in the regulated areas.

(7) Permit-required confined space. The employer shall determine if a permit-required confined space hazard exists and shall take any necessary precautions in accordance with chapter 296-62 WAC Part M.

(8) Competent persons. For construction and shipyard work the employer shall ensure that all asbestos work performed within regulated areas is supervised by a competent person, as defined in WAC 296-62-07703. The duties of the competent person are set out in WAC 296-62-07728.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 95-04-007, 296-62-07711, filed 1/18/95, effective 3/1/95; 93-19-142 (Order 93-04), 296-62-07711, filed 9/22/93, effective 11/1/93; 89-11-035 (Order 89-03), 296-62-07711, filed 5/15/89, effective 6/30/89; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07711, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07711, filed 4/27/87.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 89-10, filed 10/10/89, effective 11/24/89)

WAC 296-62-07712 Requirements for asbestos ((~~removal, demolition, and renovation operations~~)) activities in construction and shipyard work. (((1) The employer, wherever feasible, shall establish negative-pressure enclosures having a minimum of one air exchange every fifteen minutes within the enclosure before commencing removal, demolition, and renovation operations. A sufficient amount of air shall be exhausted to create a pressure of -0.02 inches of water within the enclosure with respect to the area outside the enclosure.

~~(2) The employer shall designate a certified asbestos supervisor who shall perform or directly supervise the following duties:~~

~~(a) Set up the enclosure;~~

~~(b) Ensure the integrity of the enclosure;~~

~~(c) Control entry to and exit from the enclosure;~~

~~(d) Supervise all employee exposure monitoring required by this section;~~

~~(e) Ensure that employees working within the enclosure wear protective clothing and respirators as required by WAC 296-62-07715 and 296-62-07717;~~

~~(f) Ensure that employees are trained in the use of engineering controls, work practices, and personal protective equipment;~~

~~(g) Ensure that employees use the hygiene facilities and observe the decontamination procedures specified in WAC 296-62-07719; and~~

~~(h) Ensure that engineering controls including HEPA filters are functioning properly.~~

(3) In addition to the qualifications specified in WAC 296-62-07703, the certified asbestos supervisor shall be trained in all aspects of asbestos abatement, the contents of this standard, the identification of asbestos and their removal procedures, and other practices for reducing the hazard. Such training shall be obtained in a comprehensive course conducted by an approved asbestos supervisor course as specified in WAC 296-65-007. The certified asbestos supervisor shall meet all requirements as specified in WAC 296-65-012.

~~(4) Exceptions:~~

(a) For small-scale, short-duration operations, such as pipe repair, valve replacement, installing electrical conduits, installing or removing drywall, roofing, and other general building maintenance or renovation, the employer is not required to comply with the requirements of WAC 296-62-07712(1). Employers wishing to take advantage of the exemption in this subsection shall comply with WAC 296-62-07753, Appendix J.

~~(b) A certified asbestos supervisor shall not be required for projects consisting of less than 48 square feet or 10 lineal feet of asbestos-containing material.~~)) (1) Methods of compliance, the following engineering controls and work practices of this section shall be used for construction work defined in WAC 296-155-012 and for all ship repair defined in WAC 296-304-010.

(2) Engineering controls and work practices for all operations covered by this section. The employer shall use the following engineering controls and work practices in all operations covered by this section, regardless of the levels of exposure:

(a) Vacuum cleaners equipped with HEPA filters to collect all debris and dust containing ACM and PACM, except as provided in subsection (10)(b) of this section in the case of roofing material.

(b) Wet methods, or wetting agents, to control employee exposures during asbestos handling, mixing, removal, cutting, application, and cleanup, except where employers demonstrate that the use of wet methods is infeasible due to, for example, the creation of electrical hazards, equipment malfunction, and, in roofing, except as provided in subsection (10)(b) of this section.

(c) Asbestos shall be handled, mixed, applied, removed, cut, scored, or otherwise worked in a wet saturated state to prevent the emission of airborne fibers unless the usefulness of the product would be diminished thereby.

(d) Prompt cleanup and disposal of wastes and debris contaminated with asbestos in leak-tight containers except in roofing operations, where the procedures specified in this section apply.

(3) In addition to the requirements of subsection (2) of this section, the employer shall use the following control methods to achieve compliance with the TWA permissible exposure limit and excursion limit prescribed by WAC 296-62-07705:

(a) Local exhaust ventilation equipped with HEPA filter dust collection systems;

(b) Enclosure or isolation of processes producing asbestos dust;

(c) Ventilation of the regulated area to move contaminated air away from the breathing zone of employees and toward a filtration or collection device equipped with a HEPA filter;

(d) Use of other work practices and engineering controls that the department can show to be feasible;

(e) Wherever the feasible engineering and work practice controls described above are not sufficient to reduce employee exposure to or below the permissible exposure limit and/or excursion limit prescribed in WAC 296-62-07705, the employer shall use them to reduce employee exposure to the lowest levels attainable by these controls and shall supplement them by the use of respiratory protection that complies with the requirements of WAC 296-62-07715.

(4) Prohibitions. The following work practices and engineering controls shall not be used for work related to asbestos or for work which disturbs ACM or PACM, regardless of measured levels of asbestos exposure or the results of initial exposure assessments:

(a) High-speed abrasive disc saws that are not equipped with point or cut ventilator or enclosures with HEPA filtered exhaust air;

(b) Compressed air used to remove asbestos, or materials containing asbestos, unless the compressed air is used in conjunction with an enclosed ventilation system designed to capture the dust cloud created by the compressed air;

(d) Employee rotation as a means of reducing employee exposure to asbestos.

(5) Cleanup.

(a) After completion of asbestos removal, demolition, and renovation operations, all surfaces in and around the work area shall be cleared of any asbestos debris.

(b) Lock-down. Where asbestos has been removed, encapsulant shall be applied to ensure binding of remaining fibers.

(c) The employer shall demonstrate by monitoring that the airborne fiber concentration is below the permissible exposure limits; or, at or below the airborne fiber level existing prior to the start of the removal, demolition, or renovation project; whichever level is lower.

(6) Class I requirements. The following engineering controls and work practices and procedures shall be used:

(a) All Class I work, including the installation and operation of the control system shall be supervised by a competent person as defined in WAC 296-62-07703;

(b) For all Class I jobs involving the removal of more than 25 linear or 10 square feet of thermal system insulation or surfacing material; for all other Class I jobs, where the employer cannot produce a negative exposure assessment pursuant to WAC 296-62-07709(3), or where employees are working in areas adjacent to the regulation area, while the Class I work is being performed, the employer shall use one of the following methods to ensure that airborne asbestos does not migrate from the regulated area:

(i) Critical barriers shall be placed over all the openings to the regulated area, except where activities are performed outdoors; or

(ii) The employer shall use another barrier or isolation method which prevents the migration of airborne asbestos from the regulated area, as verified by perimeter area surveillance during each work shift at each boundary of the regulated area, showing no visible asbestos dust; and perimeter area monitoring showing that clearance levels contained in 40 CFR Part 763, Subpart E, of the EPA Asbestos in Schools Rule are met, or that perimeter area levels, measured by Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM) are no more than background levels representing the same area before the asbestos work began. The results of such monitoring shall be made known to the employer no later than 24 hours from the end of the work shift represented by such monitoring. Exception: For work completed outdoors where employees are not working in areas adjacent to the regulated areas, (a) of this subsection is satisfied when the specific control methods in subsection (7) of this section are used;

(c) For all Class I jobs, HVAC systems shall be isolated in the regulated area by sealing with a double layer of 6 mil plastic or the equivalent;

(d) For all Class I jobs, impermeable dropcloths shall be placed on surfaces beneath all removal activity;

(e) For all Class I jobs, all objects within the regulated area shall be covered with impermeable dropcloths or plastic sheeting which is secured by duct tape or an equivalent;

(f) For all Class I jobs where the employer cannot produce a negative exposure assessment, or where exposure monitoring shows that a PEL is exceeded, the employer shall ventilate the regulated area to move contaminated air away from the breathing zone of employees toward a HEPA filtration or collection device.

(7) Specific control methods for Class I work. In addition, Class I asbestos work shall be performed using one or more of the following control methods pursuant to the limitations stated below:

(a) Negative pressure enclosure (NPE) systems: NPE systems may be used where the configuration of the work area does not make the erection of the enclosure infeasible, with the following specifications and work practices:

(i) Specifications:

(A) The negative pressure enclosure (NPE) may be of any configuration;

(B) At least 4 air changes per hour shall be maintained in the NPE;

(C) A minimum of -0.02 column inches of water pressure differential, relative to outside pressure, shall be maintained within the NPE as evidenced by manometric measurements;

(D) The NPE shall be kept under negative pressure throughout the period of its use; and

(E) Air movement shall be directed away from employees performing asbestos work within the enclosure, and toward a HEPA filtration or collection device.

(ii) Work practices:

(A) Before beginning work within the enclosure and at the beginning of each shift, the NPE shall be inspected for breaches and smoke-tested for leaks, and any leaks sealed.

(B) Electrical circuits in the enclosure shall be deactivated, unless equipped with ground-fault circuit interrupters.

(b) Glove bag systems may be used to remove PACM and/or ACM from straight runs of piping and elbows and other connections with the following specifications and work practices:

(i) Specifications:

(A) Glove bags shall be made of 6 mil thick plastic and shall be seamless at the bottom.

(B) Glove bags used on elbows and other connections must be designed for that purpose and used without modifications.

(ii) Work practices:

(A) Each glove bag shall be installed so that it completely covers the circumference of pipe or other structure where the work is to be done.

(B) Glove bags shall be smoke-tested for leaks and any leaks sealed prior to use.

(D) Glove bags shall not be used on surfaces whose temperature exceeds 150F.

(E) Prior to disposal, glove bags shall be collapsed by removing air within them using a HEPA vacuum.

(F) Before beginning the operation, loose and friable material adjacent to the glove bag/box operation shall be wrapped and sealed in two layers of six mil plastic or otherwise rendered intact.

(G) Where system uses attached waste bag, such bag shall be connected to collection bag using hose or other material which shall withstand pressure of ACM waste and water without losing its integrity.

(H) Sliding valve or other device shall separate waste bag from hose to ensure no exposure when waste bag is disconnected.

(I) At least two persons shall perform Class I glove bag removal operations.

(c) Negative pressure glove bag systems. Negative pressure glove bag systems may be used to remove ACM or PACM from piping.

(i) Specifications: In addition to specifications for glove bag systems above, negative pressure glove bag systems shall attach HEPA vacuum systems or other devices to bag during removal.

(ii) Work practices:

(A) The employer shall comply with the work practices for glove bag systems in this section.

(B) The HEPA vacuum cleaner or other device used during removal shall run continually during the operation until it is completed at which time the bag shall be collapsed prior to removal of the bag from the pipe.

(C) Where a separate waste bag is used along with a collection bag and discarded after one use, the collection bag may be reused if rinsed clean with amended water before reuse.

(d) Negative pressure glove box systems: Negative pressure glove boxes may be used to remove ACM or PACM from pipe runs with the following specifications and work practices:

(i) Specifications:

(A) Glove boxes shall be constructed with rigid sides and made from metal or other material which can withstand the weight of the ACM and PACM and water used during removal.

(B) A negative pressure generator shall be used to create negative pressure in the system.

(D) The box shall be fitted with gloved apertures.

(E) An aperture at the base of the box shall serve as a bagging outlet for waste ACM and water.

(F) A back-up generator shall be present on site.

(G) Waste bags shall consist of 6 mil thick plastic double-bagged before they are filled or plastic thicker than 6 mil.

(ii) Work practices:

(A) At least two persons shall perform the removal.

(B) The box shall be smoke-tested for leaks and any leaks sealed prior to each use.

(C) Loose or damaged ACM adjacent to the box shall be wrapped and sealed in two layers of 6 mil plastic prior to the job, or otherwise made intact prior to the job.

(D) A HEPA filtration system shall be used to maintain pressure barrier in box.

(e) Water spray process system. A water spray process system may be used for removal of ACM and PACM from cold line piping if, employees carrying out such process have completed a 40-hour separate training course in its use, in addition to training required for employees performing Class I work. The system shall meet the following specifications and shall be performed by employees using the following work practices:

(i) Specifications:

(A) Piping shall be surrounded on 3 sides by rigid framing.

(B) A 360 degree water spray, delivered through nozzles supplied by a high pressure separate water line, shall be formed around the piping.

(ii) Work practices:

(A) The system shall be run for at least 10 minutes before removal begins.

(B) All removal shall take place within the water barrier.

(C) The system shall be operated by at least three persons, one of whom shall not perform removal, but shall check equipment, and ensure proper operation of the system.

(D) After removal, the ACM and PACM shall be bagged while still inside the water barrier.

(f) A small walk-in enclosure which accommodates no more than two persons (mini-enclosure) may be used if the disturbance or removal can be completely contained by the enclosure with the following specifications and work practices:

(i) Specifications:

(A) The fabricated or job-made enclosure shall be constructed of 6 mil plastic or equivalent.

(B) The enclosure shall be placed under negative pressure by means of a HEPA filtered vacuum or similar ventilation unit.

(C) Change room. A small change room made of 6-mil-thick polyethylene plastic should be contiguous to the mini-enclosure, and is necessary to allow the worker to vacuum off his/her protective coveralls and remove them before leaving the work area. While inside the enclosure, the worker should wear Tyvekl disposable coveralls and use the appropriate HEPA-filtered dual cartridge respiratory protection. The advantages of mini-enclosures are that they limit the spread of asbestos contamination, reduce the potential exposure of bystanders and other workers who may be working in adjacent areas, and are quick and easy to install. The disadvantage of mini-enclosures is that they may be too small to contain the equipment necessary to create a negative-pressure within the enclosure; however, the double layer of plastic sheeting will serve to restrict the release of asbestos fibers to the area outside the enclosure.

(ii) Work practices:

(A) Before use, the mini-enclosure shall be inspected for leaks and smoke-tested to detect breaches, and any breaches sealed.

(B) Before reuse, the interior shall be completely washed with amended water and HEPA-vacuumed.

(8) Alternative control methods for Class I work. Class I work may be performed using a control method which is not referenced in subsection (2)(a) through (3)(e) of this section, or which modifies a control method referenced in subsection (2)(a) through (3)(e) of this section, if the following provisions are complied with:

(a) The control method shall enclose, contain or isolate the processes or source of airborne asbestos dust, or otherwise capture or redirect such dust before it enters the breathing zone of employees.

(b) A certified industrial hygienist or licensed professional engineer who is also qualified as a project designer as defined in WAC 296-62-07703, shall evaluate the work area, the projected work practices and the engineering controls and shall certify in writing that the planned control method is adequate to reduce direct and indirect employee exposure to below the PELs under worst-case conditions of use, and that the planned control method will prevent asbestos contamination outside the regulated area, as measured by clearance sampling which meets the requirements of EPA's Asbestos in Schools rule issued under AHERA, or perimeter monitoring which meets the criteria in subsection (6)(b)(ii) of this section. Where the TSI or surfacing material to be removed is 25 linear or 10 square feet or less, the evaluation required in subsection (8)(b) of this section may be performed by a competent person.

(c) Before work which involves the removal of more than 25 linear or 10 square feet of thermal system insulation or surfacing material is begun using an alternative method which has been the subject of subsection (2)(a) through (3)(e) of this section required evaluation and certification, the employer shall send a copy of such evaluation and certification to the Department of Labor and Industries, Asbestos Certification Program, P.O. Box 44614, Olympia, Washington 98504-4614. The submission shall not constitute approval by WISHA.

(9) Work practices and engineering controls for Class II work.

(a) All Class II work shall be supervised by a competent person as defined in WAC 296-62-07703.

(b) For all indoor Class II jobs, where the employer has not produced a negative exposure assessment pursuant to WAC 296-62-07709(3), or where during the job, changed conditions indicate there may be exposure above the PEL or where the employer does not remove the ACM in a substantially intact state, the employer shall use one of the following methods to ensure that airborne asbestos does not migrate from the regulated area:

(i) Critical barriers shall be placed over all openings to the regulated area; or

(ii) The employer shall use another barrier or isolation method which prevents the migration of airborne asbestos from the regulated area, as verified by perimeter area monitoring or clearance monitoring which meets the criteria set out in subsection (6)(b)(ii) of this section; or

(iii) Impermeable dropcloths shall be placed on surfaces beneath all removal activity.

(d) All Class II asbestos work shall be performed using the work practices and requirements set out above in subsection (9)(a) and (b) of this section.

(10) Additional controls for Class II work. Class II asbestos work shall also be performed by complying with the work practices and controls designated for each type of asbestos work to be performed, set out in this paragraph. Where more than one control method may be used for a type of asbestos work, the employer may choose one or a combination of designated control methods. Class II work also may be performed using a method allowed for Class I work, except that glove bags and glove boxes are allowed if they fully enclose the Class II material to be removed.

(a) For removing vinyl and asphalt flooring materials which contain ACM or for which in buildings constructed no later than 1980, the employer has not verified the absence of ACM pursuant to WAC 296-62-07712 (9)(a)(ix). The employer shall ensure that employees comply with the following work practices and that employees are trained in these practices pursuant to WAC 296-62-07722.

(i) Flooring or its backing shall not be sanded.

(ii) Vacuums equipped with HEPA filter, disposable dust bag, and metal floor tool (no brush) shall be used to clean floors.

(iii) Resilient sheeting shall be removed by cutting with wetting of the snip point and wetting during delamination. Rip-up of resilient sheet floor material is prohibited.

(iv) All scraping of residual adhesive and/or backing shall be performed using wet methods.

(v) Dry sweeping is prohibited.

(vi) Mechanical chipping is prohibited unless performed in a negative pressure enclosure which meets the requirements of subsection (7)(a) of this section.

(vii) Tiles shall be removed intact, unless the employer demonstrates that intact removal is not possible.

(viii) When tiles are heated and can be removed intact, wetting may be omitted.

(ix) Resilient flooring material including associated mastic and backing shall be assumed to be asbestos-containing unless an industrial hygienist determines that it is asbestos-free using recognized analytical techniques.

(b) For removing roofing material which contains ACM the employer shall ensure that the following work practices are followed:

(i) Roofing material shall be removed in an intact state to the extent feasible.

(ii) Wet methods shall be used to remove roofing materials that are not intact, or that will be rendered not intact during removal, unless such wet methods are not feasible or will create safety hazards.

(iii) Cutting machines shall be continuously misted during use, unless a competent person determines that misting substantially decreases worker safety.

(iv) When removing built-up roofs with asbestos-containing roofing felts and an aggregate surface using a power roof cutter, all dust resulting from the cutting operation shall be collected by a HEPA dust collector, or shall be HEPA vacuumed by vacuuming along the cut line. When removing built-up roofs with asbestos-containing roofing felts and a smooth surface using a power roof cutter, the dust resulting from the cutting operation shall be collected either by a HEPA dust collector or HEPA vacuuming along the cut line, or by gently sweeping and then carefully and completely wiping up the still wet dust and debris left along the cut line. The dust and debris shall be immediately bagged or placed in covered containers.

(v) Asbestos-containing material that has been removed from a roof shall not be dropped or thrown to the ground. Unless the material is carried or passed to the ground by hand, it shall be lowered to the ground via covered, dust-tight chute, crane or hoist:

(A) Any ACM that is not intact shall be lowered to the ground as soon as is practicable, but in any event no later than the end of the work shift. While the material remains on the roof it shall either be kept wet, placed in an impermeable waste bag, or wrapped in plastic sheeting.

(B) Intact ACM shall be lowered to the ground as soon as is practicable, but in any event no later than the end of the work shift.

(vi) Upon being lowered, unwrapped material shall be transferred to a closed receptacle in such manner so as to preclude the dispersion of dust.

(vii) Roof level heating and ventilation air intake sources shall be isolated or the ventilation system shall be shut down.

(viii) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, removal or repair of sections of intact roofing less than 25 square feet in area does not require use of wet methods or HEPA vacuuming as long as manual methods which do not render the material nonintact are used to remove the material and no visible dust is created by the removal method used. In determining whether a job involves less than 25 square feet, the employer shall include all removal and repair work performed on the same roof on the same day.

(c) When removing cementitious asbestos-containing siding and shingles or transite panels containing ACM on building exteriors (other than roofs, where subsection (10)(b) of this section applies) the employer shall ensure that the following work practices are followed:

(i) Cutting, abrading or breaking siding, shingles, or transite panels, shall be prohibited unless the employer can demonstrate that methods less likely to result in asbestos fiber release cannot be used.

(ii) Each panel or shingle shall be sprayed with amended water prior to removal.

(iii) Unwrapped or unbagged panels or shingles shall be immediately lowered to the ground via covered dust-tight chute, crane or hoist, or placed in an impervious waste bag or wrapped in plastic sheeting and lowered to the ground no later than the end of the work shift.

(iv) Nails shall be cut with flat, sharp instruments.

(d) When removing gaskets containing ACM, the employer shall ensure that the following work practices are followed:

(i) If a gasket is visibly deteriorated and unlikely to be removed intact, removal shall be undertaken within a glove bag as described in subsection (7)(b) of this section.

(ii) (Reserved.)

(iii) The gasket shall be immediately placed in a disposal container.

(iv) Any scraping to remove residue must be performed wet.

(e) When performing any other Class II removal of asbestos-containing material for which specific controls have not been listed in subsection (10) of this section, the employer shall ensure that the following work practices are complied with.

(i) The material shall be thoroughly wetted with amended water prior to and during its removal.

(ii) The material shall be removed in an intact state unless the employer demonstrates that intact removal is not possible.

(iii) Cutting, abrading or breaking the material shall be prohibited unless the employer can demonstrate that methods less likely to result in asbestos fiber release are not feasible.

(iv) Asbestos-containing material removed, shall be immediately bagged or wrapped, or kept wet until transferred to a closed receptacle, no later than the end of the work shift.

(f) Alternative work practices and controls. Instead of the work practices and controls listed in subsection (10) of this section, the employer may use different or modified engineering and work practice controls if the following provisions are complied with.

(i) The employer shall demonstrate by data representing employee exposure during the use of such method under conditions which closely resemble the conditions under which the method is to be used, that employee exposure will not exceed the PELs under any anticipated circumstances.

(ii) A competent person shall evaluate the work area, the projected work practices and the engineering controls, and shall certify in writing, that the different or modified controls are adequate to reduce direct and indirect employee exposure to below the PELs under all expected conditions of use and that the method meets the requirements of this standard. The evaluation shall include and be based on data representing employee exposure during the use of such method under conditions which closely resemble the conditions under which the method is to be used for the current job, and by employees whose training and experience are equivalent to employees who are to perform the current job.

(11) Work practices and engineering controls for Class III asbestos work. Class III asbestos work shall be conducted using engineering and work practice controls which minimize the exposure to employees performing the asbestos work and to bystander employees.

(a) The work shall be performed using wet methods.

(b) To the extent feasible, the work shall be performed using local exhaust ventilation.

(c) Where the disturbance involves drilling, cutting, abrading, sanding, chipping, braking, or sawing of thermal system insulation or surfacing material, the employer shall use impermeable dropcloths, and shall isolate the operation using mini-enclosures or glove bag systems pursuant to subsection (7) of this section or another isolation method.

(d) Where the employer does not produce a "negative exposure assessment" for a job, or where monitoring results show the PEL has been exceeded, the employer shall contain the area using impermeable dropcloths and plastic barriers or their equivalent, or shall isolate the operation using a control system listed in and in compliance with subsection (7) of this section.

(e) Employees performing Class III jobs, which involve the disturbance of thermal system insulation or surfacing material, or where the employer does not produce a "negative exposure assessment" or where monitoring results show a PEL has been exceeded, shall wear respirators which are selected, used and fitted pursuant to provisions of WAC 296-62-07715.

(12) Class IV asbestos work. Class IV asbestos jobs shall be conducted by employees trained pursuant to the asbestos awareness training program set out in WAC 296-62-07722. In addition, all Class IV jobs shall be conducted in conformity with the requirements set out in this section, mandating wet methods, HEPA vacuums, and prompt clean up of debris containing ACM and PACM.

(a) Employees cleaning up debris and waste in a regulated area where respirators are required shall wear respirators which are selected, used and fitted pursuant to provisions of WAC 296-62-07715.

(b) Employers of employees who clean up waste and debris in, and employers in control of, areas where friable thermal system insulation or surfacing material is accessible, shall assume that such waste and debris contain asbestos.

(13) Alternative methods of compliance for installation, removal, repair, and maintenance of certain roofing and pipeline coating materials. Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, an employer who complies with all provisions of subsection (10)(a) and (b) of this section when installing, removing, repairing, or maintaining intact pipeline asphaltic wrap, or roof cements, mastics, coatings, or flashings which contain asbestos fibers encapsulated or coated by bituminous or resinous compounds shall be deemed to be in compliance with this section. If an employer does not comply with all provisions of this subsection (13), or if during the course of the job the material does not remain intact, the provisions of subsection (10) of this section apply instead of this subsection (13).

(a) Before work begins and as needed during the job, a competent person who is capable of identifying asbestos hazards in the workplace and selecting the appropriate control strategy for asbestos exposure, and who has the authority to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate such hazards, shall conduct an inspection of the worksite and determine that the roofing material is intact and will likely remain intact.

(b) All employees performing work covered by this subsection (13) shall be trained in a training program that meets the requirements of WAC 296-62-07722.

(c) The material shall not be sanded, abraded, or ground. Manual methods which do not render the material nonintact shall be used.

(d) Material that has been removed from a roof shall not be dropped or thrown to the ground. Unless the material is carried or passed to the ground by hand, it shall be lowered to the ground via covered, dust-tight chute, crane or hoist. All such material shall be removed from the roof as soon as is practicable, but in any event no later than the end of the work shift.

(e) Where roofing products which have been labeled as containing asbestos pursuant to WAC 296-62-07721, installed on nonresidential roofs during operations covered by this subsection (13), the employer shall notify the building owner of the presence and location of such materials no later than the end of the job.

(f) All removal or disturbance of pipeline asphaltic wrap shall be performed using wet methods.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 89-21-018 (Order 89-10), 296-62-07712, filed 10/10/89, effective 11/24/89; 89-11-035 (Order 89-03), 296-62-07712, filed 5/15/89, effective 6/30/89; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07712, filed 11/30/87.]

REPEALER

The following section of the Washington Administrative Code is repealed:

WAC 296-62-07707 Identification.

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 90-10, filed 8/13/90, effective 9/24/90)

WAC 296-62-07713 Methods of compliance for asbestos activities in general industry. (1) Engineering controls and work practices.

(a) The employer shall institute engineering controls and work practices to reduce and maintain employee exposure to or below the permissible exposure limits prescribed in WAC 296-62-07705, except to the extent that such controls are not feasible. Engineering controls and work practices include but are not limited to the following:

(i) Local exhaust ventilation equipped with HEPA filter dust collection systems;

(ii) Vacuum cleaners equipped with HEPA filters;

(iii) Enclosure or isolation of processes producing asbestos dust;

(iv) Use of wet methods, wetting agents, or removal encapsulants to control employee exposures during asbestos handling, mixing, removal, cutting, application, and cleanup;

(v) Prompt disposal of wastes contaminated with asbestos in leak-tight containers; or

(vi) Use of work practices or other engineering controls that the director can show to be feasible.

(b) Wherever the feasible engineering controls and work practices that can be instituted are not sufficient to reduce employee exposure to or below the permissible exposure limits prescribed in WAC 296-62-07705, the employer shall use them to reduce employee exposure to the lowest levels achievable by these controls and shall supplement them by the use of respiratory protection that complies with the requirements of WAC 296-62-07715.

(c) For the following operations, wherever feasible engineering controls and work practices that can be instituted are not sufficient to reduce the employee exposure to or below the permissible exposure limits prescribed in WAC 296-62-07705, the employer shall use them to reduce employee exposure to or below 0.5 fiber per cubic centimeter of air (as an eight-hour time-weighted average) or 2.5 fibers per cubic centimeter of air for 30 minutes (short-term exposure), and shall supplement them by the use of any combination of respiratory protection that complies with the requirements of WAC 296-62-07715, work practices and feasible engineering controls that will reduce employee exposure to or below the permissible exposure limits prescribed in WAC 296-62-07705: Coupling cutoff in primary asbestos cement pipe manufacturing; sanding in primary and secondary asbestos cement sheet manufacturing; grinding in primary and secondary friction product manufacturing; carding and spinning in dry textile processes; and grinding and sanding in primary plastics manufacturing.

(d) Local exhaust ventilation. Local exhaust ventilation and dust collection systems shall be designed, constructed, installed, and maintained in accordance with good practices such as those found in the American National Standard Fundamentals Governing the Design and Operation of Local Exhaust Systems, ANSI Z9.2-1979.

(e) Particular tools. All hand-operated and power-operated tools which would produce or release fibers of asbestos so as to expose employees to levels in excess of the exposure limits prescribed in WAC 296-62-07705, such as, but not limited to, saws, scorers, abrasive wheels, and drills, shall be provided with local exhaust ventilation systems which comply with (d) of this subsection. High-speed abrasive disc saws that are not equipped with appropriate engineering controls shall not be used for work related to asbestos.

(f) Wet methods. Asbestos shall be handled, mixed, applied, removed, cut, scored, or otherwise worked in a wet saturated state to prevent the emission of airborne fibers unless the usefulness of the product would be diminished thereby.

(g) Particular products and operations. No asbestos cement, mortar, coating, grout, plaster, or similar material containing asbestos shall be removed from bags, cartons, or other containers in which they are shipped, without being either wetted, enclosed, or ventilated so as to prevent effectively the release of airborne fibers of asbestos ((~~so as to expose employees to levels in excess of the permissible exposure limits prescribed in WAC 296-62-07705~~)).

(h) Compressed air. Compressed air shall not be used to remove asbestos or materials containing asbestos unless the compressed air is used in conjunction with an enclosed ventilation system designed to effectively capture the dust cloud created by the compressed air.

(2) Clean-up.

(a) After completion of asbestos removal, demolition, and renovation operations, all surfaces in and around the work area shall be cleared of any asbestos debris.

(b) Lock-down. Where asbestos has been removed, encapsulant shall be applied to ensure binding of remaining fibers.

(c) The employer shall demonstrate by monitoring that the airborne fiber concentration is below the ((~~action level~~)) permissible exposure limits; or, at or below the airborne fiber level existing prior to the start of the removal, demolition, or renovation project; whichever level is lower.

(3) Compliance program.

(a) Where either the time weighted average and/or excursion limit is exceeded, the employer shall establish and implement a written program to reduce employee exposure to or below the permissible exposure limits by means of engineering and work practice controls as required by subsection (1) of this section, and by the use of respiratory protection where required or permitted under this section.

(b) Such programs shall be reviewed and updated as necessary to reflect significant changes in the status of the employer's compliance program.

(c) Written programs shall be submitted upon request for examination and copying to the director, affected employees and designated employee representatives.

(d) The employer shall not use employee rotation as a means of compliance with the permissible exposure limits specified in WAC 296-62-07705.

(4) Specific compliance methods for brake and clutch repair:

(a) Engineering controls and work practices for brake and clutch repair and service. During automotive brake and clutch inspection, disassembly, repair and assembly operations, the employer shall institute engineering controls and work practices to reduce employee exposure to materials containing asbestos using a negative pressure enclosure/HEPA vacuum system method or low pressure/wet cleaning method which meets the detailed requirements set out in Appendix F to this section. The employer may also comply using an equivalent method which follows written procedures which the employer demonstrates can achieve results equivalent to Method A in Appendix F to this section. For facilities in which no more than 5 pair of brakes or 5 clutches are inspected, disassembled, repaired, or assembled per week, the method set forth in Appendix F to this section may be used.

(b) The employer may also comply by using an equivalent method which follows written procedures, which the employer demonstrates can achieve equivalent exposure reductions as do the two "preferred methods." Such demonstration must include monitoring data conducted under workplace conditions closely resembling the process, type of asbestos containing materials, control method, work practices and environmental conditions which the equivalent method will be used, or objective data, which document that under all reasonably foreseeable conditions of brake and clutch repair applications, the method results in exposure which are equivalent to the methods set out in Appendix F to this section.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 90-17-051 (Order 90-10), 296-62-07713, filed 8/13/90, effective 9/24/90; 89-11-035 (Order 89-03), 296-62-07713, filed 5/15/89, effective 6/30/89; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07713, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07713, filed 4/27/87.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 90-18, filed 1/10/91, effective 2/12/91)

WAC 296-62-07715 Respiratory protection. (1) General. The employer shall provide respirators, and ensure that they are used, where required by WAC 296-62-077 through 296-62-07753. Respirators shall be used in the following circumstances:

(a) During the interval necessary to install or implement feasible engineering and work practice controls;

(b) In work operations, such as maintenance and repair activities, or other activities for which engineering and work practice controls are not feasible;

(c) In work situations where feasible engineering and work practice controls are not yet sufficient to reduce exposure to or below the permissible exposure limits;

(d) In emergencies;

(e) In all regulated areas; ((~~and~~))

(f) Whenever employee exposure exceeds the permissible exposure limits;

(g) During all Class I asbestos jobs;

(h) During all Class II work where the ACM is not removed in a substantially intact state;

(i) During all Class II and Class III work which is not performed using wet methods, provided, however, that respirators need not be worn during removal of ACM from sloped roofs when a negative exposure assessment has been made and the ACM is removed in an intact state;

(j) During all Class II and Class III asbestos jobs where the employer does not produce a "negative exposure assessment";

(k) During all Class III jobs where TSI or surfacing ACM or PACM is being disturbed; and

(l) During all Class IV work performed within regulated areas where employees performing other work are required to wear respirators.

(2) Respirator selection.

(a) Where respirators are ((~~required under this section~~)) used, the employer shall select and provide, at no cost to the employee, the appropriate respirator as specified in Table 1 of this section or in WAC 296-62-07715(2), and shall ensure that the employee uses the respirator provided.

(b) The employer shall select respirators from among those jointly approved as being acceptable for protection by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) ((~~or by~~)) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) under the provisions of 30 CFR Part 11.

((~~(b)~~)) (c) The employer shall provide a tight fitting powered, air-purifying respirator in lieu of any negative pressure respirator specified in Table 1 of this section whenever:

(i) An employee chooses to use this type of respirator; and

(ii) This respirator will provide adequate protection to the employee.

(d) In addition to the selection criterion below, the employer shall provide a half-mask air purifying respirator, other than a disposable respirator, equipped with high efficiency filters whenever the employee performs the following activities: Class II and III asbestos jobs where the employer does not produce a negative exposure assessment; and Class III jobs where TSI or surfacing ACM or PACM is being disturbed.

TABLE 1--RESPIRATORY PROTECTION FOR ASBESTOS FIBERS

((~~Concentration of~~

~~asbestos fibers Required Respirator^a~~

~~Not in excess of 2 f/cc. 1. Half-mask, air-purifying respirator, other than a disposable respirator, equipped with high-efficiency filters.^b~~

~~Not in excess of 10 f/cc. 1. Full facepiece air-purifying respirator equipped with high- efficiency filters.~~

~~Not in excess of 20 f/cc. 1. Any powered air-purifying respirator equipped with high-efficiency filters.~~

~~2. Any supplied-air respirator operated in continuous flow mode.~~

~~Not in excess of 200 f/cc. 1. Full facepiece supplied-air respirator operated in pressure demand mode.~~

~~Greater than 200 f/cc 1. Full facepiece supplied-~~

~~or unknown concentration. air respirator operated in pressure-demand mode equipped with either an auxiliary positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus or a HEPA filter.^c~~

~~2. Full facepiece positive-pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).~~

))

[Open Style:Columns Off]

Airborne concentration of Required respirator.

asbestos or conditions of use (See Note a.)

Not in excess of 1 f/cc (10 X Half-mask air-purifying

PEL), or otherwise as required respirator other than a

independent of exposure disposable respirator,

equipped with high

efficiency filters.

(See Note b.)

Not in excess of 5 f/cc (50 X Full facepiece air-

PEL) purifying respirator

equipped with high

efficiency filters.

Not in excess of 10 f/cc (100 Any powered air-purifying

X PEL) respirator equipped with

high efficiency filters

or any supplied-air

respirator operated in

continuous flow mode.

Not in excess of 100 f/cc (1, Full facepiece supplied-air

000 X PEL) respirator operated in

pressure demand mode.

Greater than 100 f/cc (1,000 X Full facepiece supplied-air

PEL) or unknown concentration respirator operated in

pressure demand mode,

equipped with an

auxiliary positive pressure

self-contained breathing

apparatus or HEPA filter

egress cartridges.

(See Note c.)

[Open Style:Columns On]

Note:

a. Respirators assigned for higher environmental concentrations may be used at lower concentrations.

b. A high-efficiency filter means a filter that is capable of trapping and retaining at least 99.97 percent of all monodispersed particles of 0.3 micrometers mean aerodynamic diameter or larger.

c. See subsection (5)(c) of this section for fit testing requirements.

(3) Special respiratory protection requirements.

(a) Unless specifically identified in this subsection, respirator selection for asbestos removal, demolition, and renovation operations shall be in accordance with Table 1 of subsection (2) of this section. The employer shall provide and require to be worn, at no cost to the employee, a full facepiece supplied-air respirator operated in the pressure demand mode equipped with either an auxiliary positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus or a HEPA filter egress cartridge, to employees engaged in the following asbestos operations:

((~~(a)~~)) (i) Inside negative pressure enclosures used for removal, demolition, and renovation of friable asbestos from walls, ceilings, vessels, ventilation ducts, elevator shafts, and other structural members, but does not include pipes or piping systems; or

((~~(b)~~)) (ii) Any dry removal of asbestos.

((Exception: In lieu of the supplied-air respirator required by subsection (3) of this section, an employer may provide and require to be worn, at no cost to the employee, a full facepiece supplied-air respirator operated in the continuous flow mode equipped with either an auxiliary positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus or a back-up HEPA filter where daily and historical personal monitoring data indicates the concentration of asbestos fibers is not reasonably expected to exceed 20 f/cc. The continuous flow respirator shall be operated at a minimum air flow rate of six cubic feet per minute at the facepiece using respirable air supplied in accordance with WAC 296-62-07111.))

(b) For all Class I work excluded or not specified in (a)(i) and (ii) of this subsection, the employer shall provide a tight-fitting powered air purifying respirator equipped with high-efficiency filters or a full facepiece supplied-air respirator operated in the pressure demand mode equipped with HEPA filter egress cartridges or an auxiliary positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus for all employees within the regulated area where asbestos work is being performed for which a negative exposure assessment has not been produced and, the exposure assessment indicates the exposure level will not exceed 1 f/cc as an 8-hour time weighted average. A full facepiece supplied-air respirator operated in the pressure demand mode equipped with an auxiliary positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus, or a HEPA filter egress cartridge, shall be provided under such conditions, if the exposure assessment indicates exposure levels above 1 f/cc as an 8-hour time weighted average.

Exception: In lieu of the supplied-air respirator required by subsection (3) of this section, an employer may provide and require to be worn, at no cost to the employee, a full facepiece supplied-air respirator operated in the continuous flow mode equipped with either an auxiliary positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus or a back-up HEPA filter egress cartridge where daily and historical personal monitoring data indicates the concentration of asbestos fibers is not reasonably expected to exceed 10 f/cc. The continuous flow respirator shall be operated at a minimum air flow rate of six cubic feet per minute at the facepiece using respirable air supplied in accordance with WAC 296-62-07111.

(4) Respirator program.

(a) Where respiratory protection is ((~~required~~)) used, the employer shall institute a respirator program in accordance with WAC 296-62-071.

(b) The employer shall permit each employee who uses a filter respirator to change the filter elements whenever an increase in breathing resistance is detected and shall maintain an adequate supply of filter elements for this purpose.

(c) Employees who wear respirators shall be permitted to leave work areas to wash their faces and respirator facepieces whenever necessary to prevent skin irritation associated with respirator use.

(d) No employee shall be assigned to tasks requiring the use of respirators if, based upon his or her most recent examination, an examining physician determines that the employee will be unable to function normally wearing a respirator, or that the safety or health of the employee or other employees will be impaired by the use of a respirator. Such employee shall be assigned to another job or given the opportunity to transfer to a different position whose duties he or she is able to perform with the same employer, in the same geographical area and with the same seniority, status, and rate of pay the employee had just prior to such transfer, if such a different position is available.

(5) Respirator fit testing.

(a) The employer shall ensure that the respirator issued to the employee exhibits the least possible facepiece leakage and that the respirator is fitted properly.

(b) For each employee wearing negative pressure respirators, employers shall perform either quantitative or qualitative face fit tests at the time of initial fitting and at least every six months thereafter. The qualitative fit tests may be used only for testing the fit of half-mask respirators where they are permitted to be worn ((~~in concentrations of asbestos not in excess of 2 f/cc~~)), and shall be conducted in accordance with WAC 296-62-07739, Appendix C. The tests shall be used to select facepieces that provide the required protection as prescribed in Table 1 of this section.

(c) Any supplied-air respirator facepiece equipped with a back-up HEPA filter egress cartridge shall be quantitatively fit tested with the air supply disconnected at the time of initial fitting and at least every six months thereafter. The quantitative fit tests shall be conducted using the procedures described in WAC 296-62-07739(2), Appendix C, for negative pressure respirators.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 91-03-044 (Order 90-18), 296-62-07715, filed 1/10/91, effective 2/12/91; 89-11-035 (Order 89-03), 296-62-07715, filed 5/15/89, effective 6/30/89; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07715, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07715, filed 4/27/87.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 94-07, filed 7/20/94, effective 9/20/94)

WAC 296-62-07717 Protective work clothing and equipment. (1) Provision and use. If an employee is exposed to asbestos above the permissible exposure limits, or where the possibility of eye irritation exists, or for which a required negative exposure assessment is not produced and for any employee performing Class I operations, the employer shall provide at no cost to the employee and ((~~ensure~~)) require that the employee uses appropriate protective work clothing and equipment such as, but not limited to:

(a) Coveralls or similar full-body work clothing;

(b) Gloves, head coverings, and foot coverings; and

(2) Removal and storage.

(a) The employer shall ensure that employees remove work clothing contaminated with asbestos only in change rooms provided in accordance with WAC 296-62-07719(1).

(b) The employer shall ensure that no employee takes contaminated work clothing out of the change room, except those employees authorized to do so for the purpose of laundering, maintenance, or disposal.

(c) ((~~Contaminated work clothing shall be placed and stored in closed containers which prevent dispersion of the asbestos outside the container.~~)) Contaminated clothing. Contaminated clothing shall be transported in sealed impermeable bags, or other closed, impermeable containers, and be labeled in accordance with WAC 296-62-07721.

(d) Containers of contaminated protective devices or work clothing which are to be taken out of change rooms or the workplace for cleaning, maintenance, or disposal, shall bear labels in accordance with WAC 296-62-07721(3).

(3) Cleaning and replacement.

(a) The employer shall clean, launder, repair, or replace protective clothing and equipment required by this paragraph to maintain their effectiveness. The employer shall provide clean protective clothing and equipment at least weekly to each affected employee.

(b) The employer shall prohibit the removal of asbestos from protective clothing and equipment by blowing or shaking.

(c) Laundering of contaminated clothing shall be done so as to prevent the release of airborne fibers of asbestos in excess of the permissible exposure limits prescribed in WAC 296-62-07705.

(d) Any employer who gives contaminated clothing to another person for laundering shall inform such person of the requirement in (c) of this subsection to effectively prevent the release of airborne fibers of asbestos in excess of the permissible exposure limits.

(e) The employer shall inform any person who launders or cleans protective clothing or equipment contaminated with asbestos of the potentially harmful effects of exposure to asbestos.

(f) Contaminated clothing shall be transported in sealed impermeable bags, or other closed, impermeable containers, and labeled in accordance with WAC 296-62-07721.

(4) ((~~Protective clothing for removal, demolition, and renovation operations.~~

~~(a) The certified asbestos supervisor shall periodically examine worksuits worn by employees for rips or tears that may occur during performance of work.~~

~~(b) When rips or tears are detected while an employee is working within a negative-pressure enclosure, rips and tears shall be immediately mended, or the worksuit shall be immediately replaced.~~)) Inspection of protective clothing for construction and shipyard work.

(a) The competent person shall examine worksuits worn by employees at least once per workshift for rips or tears that may occur during performance of work.

(b) When rips or tears are detected while an employee is working, rips and tears shall be immediately mended, or the worksuit shall be immediately replaced.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 94-15-096 (Order 94-07), 296-62-07717, filed 7/20/94, effective 9/20/94; 89-11-035 (Order 89-03), 296-62-07717, filed 5/15/89, effective 6/30/89; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07717, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07717, filed 4/27/87.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 90-18, filed 1/10/91, effective 2/12/91)

WAC 296-62-07719 Hygiene facilities and practices. (1) Change rooms.

(a) The employer shall provide clean change rooms for employees required to work in regulated areas or required by WAC 296-62-07717(1) to wear protective clothing.

Exception: In lieu of the change area requirement specified in this subsection, the employer may permit employees in ((~~small-scale, short-duration operations, as described in WAC 296-62-07712(4)~~)) Class III andss IV asbestos work, to clean their protective clothing with a portable HEPA-equipped vacuum before such employees leave the area where maintenance was performed.

(b) The employer shall ensure that change rooms are in accordance with WAC 296-24-120, and are equipped with two separate lockers or storage facilities, so separated as to prevent contamination of the employee's street clothes from his/her protective work clothing and equipment.

(2) Showers.

(a) The employer shall ensure that employees who work in negative pressure enclosures required by WAC 296-62-07712, or who work in areas where their airborne exposure is above the permissible exposure limits prescribed in WAC 296-62-07705, shower at the end of the work shift.

(b) The employer shall provide shower facilities which comply with WAC 296-24-12009(3).

(c) The employer shall ensure that employees who are required to shower pursuant to (a) of this subsection do not leave the workplace wearing any clothing or equipment worn during the work shift.

(3) Special requirements in addition to the other provisions of WAC 296-62-07719 for ((~~removal, demolition, and renovation operations.~~

(a) Decontamination area. Except for small-scale, short-duration operations, as described in WAC 296-62-07753 Appendix J, the employer shall establish a decontamination area that is adjacent and connected to the regulated area for the decontamination of employees contaminated with asbestos. The decontamination area shall consist of an equipment room, shower area, and clean room in series. The employer shall ensure that employees enter and exit the regulated area through the decontamination area.

~~(b) Clean room. The clean room shall be equipped with a locker or appropriate storage container for each employee's use.~~

(c) Shower area. Where feasible, shower facilities shall be provided which comply with WAC 296-24-12009(3). The showers shall be contiguous both to the equipment room and the clean change room, unless the employer can demonstrate that this location is not feasible. Where the employer can demonstrate that it is not feasible to locate the shower between the equipment room and the clean change room, the employer shall ensure that employees:

~~(i) Remove asbestos contamination from their worksuits using a HEPA vacuum before proceeding to a shower that is not contiguous to the work area; or~~

~~(ii) Remove their contaminated worksuits, don clean worksuits, and proceed to a shower that is not contiguous to the work area.~~

~~(d) Equipment room. The equipment room shall be supplied with impermeable, labeled bags and containers for the containment and disposal of contaminated protective clothing and equipment.~~

~~(e) Decontamination area entry procedures.~~

~~(i) The employer shall ensure that employees:~~

~~(A) Enter the decontamination area through the clean room;~~

~~(B) Remove and deposit street clothing within a locker provided for their use; and~~

~~(C) Put on protective clothing and respiratory protection before leaving the clean room.~~

~~(ii) Before entering the enclosure, the employer shall ensure that employees pass through the equipment room.~~

~~(f) Decontamination area exit procedures.~~

~~(i) Before leaving the regulated area, the employer shall ensure that employees remove all gross contamination and debris from their protective clothing.~~

~~(ii) The employer shall ensure that employees remove their protective clothing in the equipment room and deposit the clothing in labeled impermeable bags or containers.~~

~~(iii) The employer shall ensure that employees do not remove their respirators in the equipment room.~~

(iv) The employer shall ensure that employees shower prior to entering the clean room. When taking a shower, employees shall be fully wetted, including the face and hair, prior to removing their respirators.

~~(v) The employer shall ensure that, after showering, employees enter the clean room before changing into street clothes.~~

~~(g)~~)) construction work defined in WAC 296-155-012 and for all shipyard work defined in WAC 296-304-010.

(a) Requirements for employees performing Class I asbestos jobs involving over 25 linear or 10 square feet of TSI or surfacing ACM and PACM.

(i) Decontamination areas: The employer shall establish a decontamination area that is adjacent and connected to the regulated area for the decontamination of such employees. The decontamination area shall consist of an equipment room, shower area, and clean room in series. The employer shall ensure that employees enter and exit the regulated area through the decontamination area.

(A) Equipment room. The equipment room shall be supplied with impermeable, labeled bags and containers for the containment and disposal of contaminated protective equipment.

(B) Shower area. Shower facilities shall be provided which comply with WAC 296-24-12009(3), unless the employer can demonstrate that they are not feasible. The showers shall be adjacent both to the equipment room and the clean room, unless the employer can demonstrate that this location is not feasible. Where the employer can demonstrate that it is not feasible to locate the shower between the equipment room and the clean room, or where the work is performed outdoors, the employers shall ensure that employees:

(I) Remove asbestos contamination from their worksuits in the equipment room using a HEPA vacuum before proceeding to a shower that is not adjacent to the work area; or

(II) Remove their contaminated worksuits in the equipment room, then don clean worksuits, and proceed to a shower that is not adjacent to the work area.

(C) Clean change room. The clean room shall be equipped with a locker or appropriate storage container for each employee's use.

(ii) Decontamination area entry procedures. The employer shall ensure that employees:

(A) Enter the decontamination area through the clean room;

(B) Remove and deposit street clothing within a locker provided for their use; and

(D) Before entering the regulated area, the employer shall ensure that employees pass through the equipment room.

(iii) Decontamination area exit procedures. The employer shall ensure that:

(A) Before leaving the regulated area, employees shall remove all gross contamination and debris from their protective clothing;

(B) Employees shall remove their protective clothing in the equipment room and deposit the clothing in labeled impermeable bags or containers;

(D) Employees shall shower prior to entering the clean room. When taking a shower, employees shall be fully wetted, including the face and hair, prior to removing the respirators;

(E) After showering, employees shall enter the clean room before changing into street clothes.

(b) Requirements for Class I work involving less than 25 linear or 10 square feet of TSI or surfacing ACM and PACM, and for Class II and Class III asbestos work operations where exposures exceed a PEL or where there is no negative exposure assessment produced before the operation.

(i) The employer shall establish an equipment room or area that is adjacent to the regulated area for the decontamination of employees and their equipment which is contaminated with asbestos which shall consist of an area covered by a impermeable drop cloth on the floor or horizontal working surface.

(ii) The area must be of sufficient size as to accommodate cleaning of equipment and removing personal protective equipment without spreading contamination beyond the area (as determined by visible accumulations).

(iii) Work clothing must be cleaned with a HEPA vacuum before it is removed.

(iv) All equipment and surfaces of containers filled with ACM must be cleaned prior to removing them from the equipment room or area.

(v) The employer shall ensure that employees enter and exit the regulated area through the equipment room or area.

(c) Requirements for Class IV work. Employers shall ensure that employees performing Class IV work within a regulated area comply with hygiene practice required of employees performing work which has a higher classification within that regulated area. Otherwise employers of employees cleaning up debris and material which is TSI or surfacing ACM or identified as PACM shall provide decontamination facilities for such employees which are required by WAC 296-62-07719 (3)(b).

(d) Decontamination area for personnel shall not be used for the transportation of asbestos debris.

((~~(h)~~)) (e) Waste load-out procedure. The waste load-out area as required by WAC 296-62-07723((~~(7)~~)) shall be used as an area for final preparation and external decontamination of waste containers, as a short term storage area for bagged waste, and as a port for transporting waste. The employer shall ensure waste containers be free of all gross contaminated material before removal from the negative-pressure enclosure. Gross contamination shall be wiped, scraped off, or washed off containers before they are placed into a two chamber air lock which is adjacent to the negative-pressure enclosure. In the first chamber, the exterior of the waste container shall be decontaminated or placed within a second waste container, and then it shall be moved into the second chamber of the air lock for temporary storage or transferred outside of the regulated area. The second waste container shall not be reused unless thoroughly decontaminated.

(4) Lunchrooms.

(a) The employer shall provide lunchroom facilities for employees who work in areas where their airborne exposure is above the time weighted average and/or excursion limit.

(b) The employer shall ensure that lunchroom facilities have a positive pressure, filtered air supply, and are readily accessible to employees.

(c) The employer shall ensure that employees who work in areas where their airborne exposure is above the time weighted average and/or excursion limit, wash their hands and faces prior to eating, drinking, or smoking.

(d) The employer shall ensure that employees do not enter lunchroom facilities with protective work clothing or equipment unless surface asbestos fibers have been removed from the clothing or equipment by vacuuming or other method that removes dust without causing the asbestos to become airborne.

(5) Smoking in work areas. The employer shall ensure that employees do not smoke in work areas where they are occupationally exposed to asbestos because of activities in that work area.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 91-03-044 (Order 90-18), 296-62-07719, filed 1/10/91, effective 2/12/91; 89-11-035 (Order 89-03), 296-62-07719, filed 5/15/89, effective 6/30/89; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07719, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07719, filed 4/27/87.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 92-20, filed 12/2/92, effective 1/15/93)

WAC 296-62-07721 Communication of hazards to employees. (((1) Upon written or oral request, a copy of the written report required in WAC 296-62-07707 and 296-65-020 shall be given to the collective bargaining representatives or employee representatives of any employee who may be exposed to any asbestos or asbestos-containing material. A copy of the written report shall be posted conspicuously at the location where employees report to work.

~~(2) Warning signs.~~

(a) Warning signs shall be provided and displayed at each regulated area. In addition, warning signs shall be posted at all approaches to regulated areas so that an employee may read the signs and take necessary protective steps before entering the area.

~~(b) The warning signs required by (a) of this subsection shall bear the following information:~~

~~danger~~

~~asbestos~~

~~cancer and lung disease hazard~~

~~authorized personnel only~~

~~respirators and protective clothing are required in this area~~

(c) The employer shall ensure that employees working in and contiguous to regulated areas comprehend the warning signs required to be posted by paragraph (2)(a) of this section. Means to ensure employee comprehension may include the use of foreign languages, pictographs, and graphics.

~~(3) Warning labels.~~

(a) Warning labels shall be affixed to all products containing asbestos including raw materials, mixtures, scrap, waste, debris, and other products containing asbestos fibers, and to their containers including waste containers. Where feasible, installed asbestos products shall contain a visible label.

~~(b) Labels shall be printed in large, bold letters on a contrasting background.~~

~~(c) The labels shall comply with the requirements of WAC 296-62-05411, and shall include the following information:~~

~~danger~~

~~contains asbestos fibers~~

~~avoid creating dust~~

~~cancer and lung disease hazard~~

~~avoid breathing airborne asbestos fibers~~

(4) Material safety data sheets. Employers who are manufacturers or importers of asbestos, or asbestos products shall comply with the requirements regarding development of material safety data sheets as specified in WAC 296-62-05413, except as provided by subsection (5) of this section.

~~(5) The provisions for labels required by subsection (3) of this section or for material safety data sheets required by subsection (4) of this section do not apply where:~~

(a) Asbestos fibers have been modified by a bonding agent, coating, binder, or other material, provided that the manufacturer can demonstrate that during any reasonably foreseeable use, handling, storage, disposal, processing, or transportation, no airborne concentrations of fibers of asbestos in excess of the action level and/or excursion limit will be released; or

~~(b) Asbestos is present in a product in concentrations less than 0.1 percent by weight.~~

~~(6) Employee information and training.~~

(a) The employer shall institute a training program for all employees who are exposed to airborne concentrations of asbestos at or above the action level and/or excursion limit and ensure their participation in the program.

~~(b) Training shall be provided prior to or at the time of initial assignment, unless the employee has received equivalent training within the previous twelve months, and at least annually thereafter.~~

~~(c) The training program shall be conducted in a manner which the employee is able to understand. The employer shall ensure that each employee is informed of the following:~~

~~(i) The health effects associated with asbestos;~~

~~(ii) The relationship between smoking and exposure to asbestos in producing lung cancer;~~

~~(iii) Methods of recognizing asbestos and the quantity, location, manner of use, release, and storage of asbestos and the specific nature of operations which could result in exposure to asbestos;~~

~~(iv) The engineering controls and work practices associated with the employee's job assignment;~~

(v) The specific procedures implemented to protect employees from exposure to asbestos such as appropriate work practices, housekeeping procedures, hygiene facilities, decontamination procedures, emergency and clean-up procedures, personal protective equipment to be used, and waste disposal procedures, and any necessary instructions in the use of these controls and procedures;

~~(vi) The purpose, proper use, and limitations of respirators and protective clothing;~~

~~(vii) The purpose and a description of the medical surveillance program required by WAC 296-62-07725;~~

~~(viii) The content of this standard, including appendices;~~

(ix) The names, addresses, and phone numbers of public health organizations which provide information, materials, and/or conduct programs concerning smoking cessation. The employer may distribute the list of such organizations contained in Appendix I, to comply with this requirement; and

~~(x) The requirements for posting signs and affixing labels and the meaning of the required legends for such signs and labels.~~

~~(d) Access to information and training materials.~~

~~(i) The employer shall make a copy of this standard and its appendices readily available without cost to all affected employees.~~

~~(ii) The employer shall provide, upon request, all materials relating to the employee information and training program to the director.~~

(iii) The employer shall inform all employees concerning the availability of self-help smoking cessation program material. Upon employee request, the employer shall distribute such material, consisting of NIH Publication No. 89-1647, or equivalent self-help material, which is approved or published by a public health organization listed in Appendix I.

~~(7) Certification.~~

~~(a) All individuals working or supervising asbestos projects, as defined in WAC 296-65-003(4) shall be certified as required by WAC 296-65-010, 296-65-012, and 296-65-030.~~

~~(b) In cases excepted under WAC 296-65-030 (2) and (3), all employees shall be trained according to subsection (6) of this section, regardless of their exposure levels.~~)) (1) Communication of hazards to employees. General industry requirements.

(a) Introduction. This section applies to the communication of information concerning asbestos hazards in general industry. Asbestos exposure in industry occurs in a wide variety of industrial and commercial settings. Employees who manufacture asbestos-containing products may be exposed to asbestos fibers. Employees who repair and replace automotive brakes and clutches may be exposed to asbestos fibers. In addition, employees engaged in housekeeping activities in industrial facilities with asbestos product manufacturing operations, and in public and commercial buildings with installed asbestos-containing materials may be exposed to asbestos fibers. It should be noted that employees who perform housekeeping activities during and after construction activities are covered by asbestos construction work requirements in WAC 296-62-077. Housekeeping employees, regardless of industry designation, should know whether building components they maintain may expose them to asbestos. Building owners are often the only and/or best source of information concerning the presence of previously installed asbestos-containing building materials. Therefore they, along with employers of potentially exposed employees, are assigned specific information conveying and retention duties under this section.

(b) Installed asbestos-containing material. Employers and building owners are required to treat installed TSI and sprayed-on and troweled-on surfacing materials as ACM for the purposes of this standard. These materials are designated "presumed ACM or PACM," and are defined in WAC 296-62-07703. Asphalt and vinyl flooring installed no later than 1980 also shall be treated as asbestos-containing. The employer or building owner may demonstrate that PACM and flooring materials do not contain asbestos by complying with WAC 296-62-07721(3).

(i) Building and facility owners shall determine the presence, location, and quantity of ACM and/or PACM at the worksite. Employers and building and facility owners shall exercise due diligence in complying with these requirements to inform employers and employees about the presence and location of ACM and PACM.

(ii) Before authorizing or allowing any construction, renovation, remodeling, maintenance, repair, or demolition project, an owner or owner's agent shall perform, or cause to be performed, a good faith inspection to determine whether materials to be worked on or removed contain asbestos. The inspection shall be documented by a written report maintained on file and made available upon request to the director.

(A) The good faith inspection shall be conducted by an accredited inspector.

(B) Such good faith inspection is not required if the owner or owner's agent is reasonably certain that asbestos will not be disturbed by the project or the owner or owner's agent assumes that the suspect material contains asbestos and handles the material in accordance with WAC 296-62-07701 through 296-62-07753.

(iii) The owner or owner's agent shall provide, to all contractors submitting a bid to undertake any construction, renovation, remodeling, maintenance, repair, or demolition project, the written statement either of the reasonable certainty of nondisturbance of asbestos or of assumption of the presence of asbestos. Contractors shall be provided with the written report before they apply or bid to work.

(iv) Any owner or owner's agent who fails to comply with (c)(ii) and (iii) of this subsection shall be subject to a mandatory fine of not less than two hundred fifty dollars for each violation. Each day the violation continues shall be considered a separate violation. In addition, any construction, renovation, remodeling, maintenance, repair, or demolition which was started without meeting the requirements of this section shall be halted immediately and cannot be resumed before meeting such requirements.

(v) Building and facility owners shall inform employers of employees, and employers shall inform employees who will perform housekeeping activities in areas which contain ACM and/or PACM of the presence and location of ACM and/or PACM in such areas which may be contacted during such activities.

(vi) Upon written or oral request, building or facility owners shall make a copy of the written report required in this section available to the department of labor and industries and the collective bargaining representatives or employee representatives of any employee who may be exposed to any asbestos or asbestos-containing materials. A copy of the written report shall be posted conspicuously at the location where employees report to work.

(vii) Building and facility owners shall maintain records of all information required to be provided pursuant to this section and/or otherwise known to the building owner concerning the presence, location and quantity of ACM and PACM in the building/facility. Such records shall be kept for the duration of ownership and shall be transferred to successive owners.

(2) Communication of hazards to employees. Requirements for construction and shipyard employment activities.

(a) Introduction. This section applies to the communication of information concerning asbestos hazards in construction and shipyard employment activities. Most asbestos-related construction and shipyard activities involve previously installed building materials. Building/vessel owners often are the only and/or best sources of information concerning them. Therefore, they, along with employers of potentially exposed employees, are assigned specific information conveying and retention duties under this section. Installed Asbestos Containing Building/Vessel Material: Employers and building/vessel owners shall identify TSI and sprayed or troweled on surfacing materials as asbestos-containing unless the employer, by complying with WAC 296-62-07721(3) determines it is not asbestos containing. Asphalt or vinyl flooring/decking material installed in buildings or vessels no later than 1980 shall also be considered as asbestos containing unless the employer/owner, pursuant to WAC 296-62-07721(3) determines it is not asbestos containing. If the employer or building/vessel owner has actual knowledge or should have known, through the exercise of due diligence, that materials other than TSI and sprayed-on or troweled-on surfacing materials are asbestos containing, they shall be treated as such. When communicating information to employees pursuant to this standard, owners and employers shall identify "PACM" as ACM. Additional requirements relating to communication of asbestos work on multi-employer worksites are set out in WAC 296-62-07706.

(b) Duties of building/vessel and facility owners.

(i) Before work subject to this section is begun, building/vessel and facility owners shall identify the presence, location and quantity of ACM, and/or PACM at the work site. All thermal system insulation and sprayed on or troweled on surfacing materials in buildings/vessels or substrates constructed no later than 1980 shall be identified as PACM. In addition, resilient flooring/decking material installed no later than 1980 shall also be identified as asbestos containing.

(ii) Before authorizing or allowing any construction, renovation, remodeling, maintenance, repair, or demolition project, a building/vessel and facility owner or owner's agent shall perform, or cause to be performed, a good faith inspection to determine whether materials to be worked on or removed contain asbestos. The inspection shall be documented by a written report maintained on file and made available upon request to the director.

(A) The good faith inspection shall be conducted by an accredited inspector.

(B) Such good faith inspection is not required if the building/vessel and facility owner or owner's agent assumes that the suspect material contains asbestos and handles the material in accordance with WAC 296-62-07701 through 296-62-07753.

(iii) The building/vessel and facility owner or owner's agent shall provide, to all contractors submitting a bid to undertake any construction, renovation, remodeling, maintenance, repair, or demolition project, the written statement either of the reasonable certainty of nondisturbance of asbestos or of assumption of the presence of asbestos. Contractors shall be provided the written report before they apply or bid on work.

(iv) Any building/vessel and facility owner or owners agent who fails to comply with WAC 296-62-07719 (2)(b)(ii) and (iii) shall be subject to a mandatory fine of not less than two hundred fifty dollars for each violation. Each day the violation continues shall be considered a separate violation. In addition, any construction, renovation, remodeling, maintenance, repair, or demolition which was started without meeting the requirements of this section shall be halted immediately and cannot be resumed before meeting such requirements.

(v) Upon written or oral request, building/vessel and facility owner or owner's agent shall make a copy of the written report required in this section available to the department of labor and industries and the collective bargaining representatives or employee representatives of any employee who may be exposed to any asbestos or asbestos-containing materials. A copy of the written report shall be posted conspicuously at the location where employees report to work.

(vi) Building/vessel and facility owner or owner's agent shall notify in writing the following persons of the presence, location and quantity of ACM or PACM, at work sites in their buildings/facilities/vessels.

(A) Prospective employers applying or bidding for work whose employees reasonably can be expected to work in or adjacent to areas containing such material;

(B) Employees of the owner who will work in or adjacent to areas containing such material;

(C) On multi-employer worksites, all employers of employees who will be performing work within or adjacent to areas containing such materials;

(D) Tenants who will occupy areas containing such materials.

(c) Duties of employers whose employees perform work subject to this standard in or adjacent to areas containing ACM and PACM. Building/vessel and facility owner or owner's agents whose employees perform such work shall comply with these provisions to the extent applicable.

(i) Before work subject to this standard is begun, building/vessel and facility owner or owner's agents shall determine the presence, location, and quantity of ACM and/or PACM at the work site pursuant to WAC 296-62-07721 (2)(b).

(ii) Before work under this standard is performed employers of employees who will perform such work shall inform the following persons of the location and quantity of ACM and/or PACM present at the work site and the precautions to be taken to insure that airborne asbestos is confined to the area.

(A) Owners of the building/vessel or facility;

(B) Employees who will perform such work and employers of employees who work and/or will be working in adjacent areas;

(iii) Upon written or oral request, a copy of the written report required in this section shall be made available to the department of labor and industries and the collective bargaining representatives or employee representatives of any employee who may be exposed to any asbestos or asbestos-containing materials. A copy of the written report shall be posted conspicuously at the location where employees report to work.

(iv) Within 10 days of the completion of such work, the employer whose employees have performed work subject to this standard, shall inform the building/vessel or facility owner and employers of employees who will be working in the area of the current location and quantity of PACM and/or ACM remaining in the former regulated area and final monitoring results, if any.

(d) In addition to the above requirements, all employers who discover ACM and/or PACM on a work site shall convey information concerning the presence, location and quantity of such newly discovered ACM and/or PACM to the owner and to other employers of employees working at the work site, within 24 hours of the discovery.

(e) No contractor may commence any construction, renovation, remodeling, maintenance, repair, or demolition project without receiving a copy of the written response or statement required by WAC 296-62-07721 (2)(b). Any contractor who begins any project without the copy of the written report or statement shall be subject to a mandatory fine of not less than two hundred fifty dollars per day. Each day the violation continues shall be considered a separate violation.

(3) Criteria to rebut the designation of installed material as PACM.

(a) At any time, an employer and/or building/vessel owner may demonstrate, for purposes of this standard, that PACM does not contain asbestos. Building/vessel owners and/or employers are not required to communicate information about the presence of building material for which such a demonstration pursuant to the requirements of (b) of this subsection has been made. However, in all such cases, the information, data and analysis supporting the determination that PACM does not contain asbestos, shall be retained pursuant to WAC 296-62-07727.

(b) An employer or owner may demonstrate that PACM does not contain asbestos by the following:

(i) Having a completed inspection conducted pursuant to the requirements of AHERA (40 CFR Part 763, Subpart E) which demonstrates that the material is not ACM;

(ii) Performing tests of the material containing PACM which demonstrate that no asbestos is present in the material. Such tests shall include analysis of 3 bulk samples of each homogeneous area of PACM collected in a randomly distributed manner. The tests, evaluation and sample collection shall be conducted by an accredited inspector. Analysis of samples shall be performed by persons or laboratories with proficiency demonstrated by current successful participation in a nationally recognized testing program such as the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) of the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) of the Round Robin for bulk samples administered by the American Industrial Hygiene Associate (AIHA), or an equivalent nationally recognized Round Robin testing program.

(4) At the entrance to mechanical rooms/areas in which employees reasonably can be expected to enter and which contain TSI or surfacing ACM and PACM, the building/vessel and facility owner or owner's agent shall post signs which identify the material which is present, its location, and appropriate work practices which, if followed, will ensure that ACM and/or PACM will not be disturbed.

(5) Warning signs.

(a) Warning signs that demarcate the regulated area shall be provided and displayed at each location where a regulated area is required. In addition, warning signs shall be posted at all approaches to regulated areas and be posted at such a distance from such a location that an employee may read the signs and take necessary protective steps before entering the area marked by the signs.

(b) The warning signs required by (a) of this subsection shall bear the following information:

danger

asbestos

cancer and lung disease hazard

authorized personnel only

respirators and protective clothing are required in this area

(c) The employer shall ensure that employees working in and contiguous to regulated areas comprehend the warning signs required to be posted by (a) of this subsection. Means to ensure employee comprehension may include the use of foreign languages, pictographs, and graphics.

(6) Warning labels.

(b) Labels shall be printed in large, bold letters on a contrasting background.

danger

contains asbestos fibers

avoid creating dust

cancer and lung disease hazard

avoid breathing airborne asbestos fibers

(7) The provisions for labels required by subsection (6)(a) of this section or for material safety data sheets required by subsection (8) of this section do not apply where:

(b) Asbestos is present in a product in concentrations less than 0.1 percent by weight.

(8) Material safety data sheets. Employers who are manufacturers or importers of asbestos, or asbestos products shall comply with the requirements regarding development of material safety data sheets as specified in WAC 296-62-05413, except as provided by subsection (7) of this section.

(9) When a building/vessel owner/or employer identifies previously installed PACM and/or ACM, labels or signs shall be affixed or posted so that employees will be notified of what materials contain PACM and/or ACM. The employer shall attach such labels in areas where they will clearly be noticed by employees who are likely to be exposed, such as at the entrance to mechanical rooms/areas. Signs required by subsection (5)(a) of this section may be posted in lieu of labels so long as they contain information required for labeling.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 93-01-005 (Order 92-20), 296-62-07721, filed 12/2/92, effective 1/15/93; 91-03-044 (Order 90-18), 296-62-07721, filed 1/10/91, effective 2/12/91; 89-21-018 (Order 89-10), 296-62-07721, filed 10/10/89, effective 11/24/89; 89-11-035 (Order 89-03), 296-62-07721, filed 5/15/89, effective 6/30/89; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07721, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07721, filed 4/27/87.]

NEW SECTION

WAC 296-62-07722 Employee information and training. (1) Certification.

(a) All individuals working or supervising asbestos projects, as defined in WAC 296-65-003 shall be certified as required by WAC 296-65-010, 296-65-012, and 296-65-030.

(b) In cases where certification requirements of chapter 296-65 WAC do not apply, all employees shall be trained according to provisions of this section regardless of their exposure levels.

(2) Training shall be provided prior to or at the time of initial assignment, unless the employee has received equivalent training within the previous twelve months, and at least annually thereafter.

(3) Training for employees performing Class I and Class II operations.

(a) Training for Class I and Class II operations shall be the certified asbestos worker training specified in WAC 296-65-003, 296-65-010, and 296-65-030.

(b) Exceptions. For employees whose Class II work with intact asbestos-containing materials involves only the removal and/or disturbance of one generic category of intact building/vessel material, such as intact roofing material, bituminous or asphaltic pipeline coating, intact flooring/decking material, siding materials and ceiling tiles, or transite panels, such employers are required to train employees who perform such work by providing a training course which includes as a minimum all elements of subsection (5) of this section and in addition the specific work practices and engineering controls set forth in WAC 296-62-07712 and 296-62-07713 which specifically relate to that material category. Such course shall include "hands-on" training, and shall take at least 8 hours.

(i) For Class II operations involving intact materials not specified in (b) of this subsection, training shall include the requirements of (b) of this subsection and specific work practices and engineering controls specified in WAC 296-62-07712 which specifically relates to the category of material being removed, and shall include hands-on training in the work practices applicable to each category of material the employee removes and each removal method that the employee uses.

(ii) Employees performing Class II operations that require the use of critical barriers (or equivalent isolation methods) and/or negative pressure enclosures, shall be certified as required by WAC 296-65-010, 296-65-012, and 296-65-030.

(4) Training for Class III and IV operations.

(a) Training for employees performing Class III and IV operations shall be the certified asbestos worker training specified in WAC 296-65-003, 296-65-001, and 296-65-030.

(b) Training for Class III asbestos work exempted from certification requirements in chapter 296-65 WAC, safety standards for asbestos removal and encapsulation shall be the equivalent in curriculum and training method to the 16-hour operations and maintenance course developed by EPA for maintenance and custodial workers who conduct activities that will result in the disturbance of ACM. (See 40 CFR 763.92(a)(2).) Such course shall include "hands-on" training in the use of respiratory protection and work practices and shall take at least 16 hours.

(c) Training for Class IV asbestos work exempted from certification requirements in chapter 296-65 WAC, safety standards for asbestos removal and encapsulation shall be the equivalent in curriculum and training method to the awareness training course developed by EPA for maintenance and custodial workers who work in buildings containing asbestos-containing material. (See 40 CFR 763.92(a)(1).) Such course shall include available information concerning the locations of PACM an ACM, and asbestos-containing flooring material, or flooring material where the absence of asbestos has not been certified; and instruction in recognition of damage, deterioration, and delamination of asbestos-containing building materials. Such a course shall take at least 2 hours.

(5) The training program shall be conducted in a manner which the employee is able to understand. The employer shall ensure that each employee is informed of the following:

(a) The health effects associated with asbestos exposure;

(b) The relationship between smoking and exposure to asbestos producing lung cancer;

(c) Methods of recognizing asbestos and quantity, location, manner of use, release (including the requirements of WAC 296-62-07721 (1)(c) and (2)(b) to presume certain building materials contain asbestos), and storage of asbestos and the specific nature of operations which could result in exposure to asbestos;

(d) The engineering controls and work practices associated with the employee's job assignment;

(e) The specific procedures implemented to protect employees from exposure to asbestos, such as appropriate work practices, housekeeping procedures, hygiene facilities, decontamination procedures, emergency and clean-up procedures (including where Class III and IV work is performed, the contents "Managing Asbestos In Place" (EPA 20T-2003, July 1990) or its equivalent in content), personal protective equipment to be used, waste disposal procedures, and any necessary instructions in the use of these controls and procedures;

(f) The purpose, proper use, and limitations of respirators and protective clothing;

(g) The purpose and a description of the medical surveillance program required by WAC 296-62-07725;

(h) The content of this standard, including appendices;

(i) The names, addresses and phone numbers of public health organizations which provide information, materials, and/or conduct programs concerning smoking cessation. The employer may distribute the list of such organizations contained in Appendix I, to comply with this requirement; and

(j) The requirements for posting signs and affixing labels and the meaning of the required legends for such signs and labels.

(6) The employer shall also provide, at no cost to employees who perform housekeeping operations in a facility which contains ACM or PACM, an asbestos awareness training course, which shall at a minimum contain the following elements: Health effects of asbestos, locations of ACM and PACM in the building/facility, recognition of ACM and PACM damage and deterioration, requirements in this standard relating to housekeeping, and proper response to fiber release episodes, to all employees who are or will work in areas where ACM and/or PACM is present. Each such employee shall be so trained at least once a year.

(7) Access to information and training materials.

(a) The employer shall make a copy of this standard and its appendices readily available without cost to all affected employees.

(b) The employer shall provide, upon request, all materials relating to the employee information and training program to the director.

(c) The employer shall inform all employees concerning the availability of self-help smoking cessation program material. Upon employee request, the employer shall distribute such material, consisting of NIH Publication No. 89-1647, or equivalent self-help material, which is approved or published by a public health organization listed in Appendix I, WAC 296-62-07751.

[]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 87-24, filed 11/30/87)

WAC 296-62-07723 Housekeeping. (1) All surfaces shall be maintained as free as practicable of accumulations of dusts and waste containing asbestos.

(2) All spills and sudden releases of material containing asbestos shall be cleaned up as soon as possible.

(3) Surfaces contaminated with asbestos may not be cleaned by the use of compressed air.

(4) Vacuuming. HEPA-filtered vacuuming equipment shall be used for vacuuming. The equipment shall be used and emptied in a manner which minimizes the reentry of asbestos into the workplace.

(5) Shoveling, dry sweeping, and dry clean-up of asbestos may be used only where vacuuming and/or wet cleaning are not feasible.

(6) Waste disposal. Waste, scrap, debris, bags, containers, equipment, and clothing contaminated with asbestos consigned for disposal, shall be collected and disposed of in sealed impermeable bags, or other closed, impermeable containers. To avoid breakage, bags shall be at least six mils in thickness and shall not be dragged or slid across rough or abrasive surfaces.

(7) Waste removal. Whenever a negative-pressure enclosure is required by WAC 296-62-07712, the employer wherever feasible, shall establish a waste-load-out area that is adjacent and connected to the negative-pressure enclosure, constructed of a two chamber air lock, for the decontamination and removal of asbestos debris.

(8) Deterioration. Asbestos and asbestos containing material which has become damaged or deteriorated shall be repaired, enclosed, encapsulated, or removed.

(9) Care of asbestos-containing flooring/decking material.

(a) Sanding of asbestos-containing floor/deck material is prohibited.

(b) Stripping of finishes shall be conducted using low abrasion pads at speeds lower than 300 rpm and wet methods.

(c) Burnishing or dry buffing may be performed only on asbestos-containing flooring/decking which has sufficient finish so that the pad cannot contact the asbestos-containing material.

(d) Dust and debris in an area containing TSI or surfacing ACM/PACM or visibly deteriorated ACM, shall not be dusted or swept dry, or vacuumed without using a HEPA filter.

(10) Waste and debris and accompanying dust in an area containing accessible thermal system insulation or surfacing material or visibly deteriorated ACM:

(a) Shall not be dusted or swept dry, or vacuumed without using a HEPA filter;

(b) Shall be promptly cleaned up and disposed of in leak tight containers.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07723, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07723, filed 4/27/87.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 90-18, filed 1/10/91, effective 2/12/91)

WAC 296-62-07725 Medical surveillance. (1) General.

(a) Employees covered. The employer shall institute a medical surveillance program for all employees who are or will be exposed to airborne concentrations of fibers of asbestos at or above the ((~~action level and/or excursion~~)) permissible exposure limits. Exception. ((Employers in the construction industry shall institute a medical surveillance program for all employees engaged in work involving levels of asbestos at or above the action level for thirty or more days per year, or who are required by this section to wear negative-pressure respirators.))

Employers in the construction or shipyard industries shall institute a medical surveillance program for all employees who for a combined total of 30 or more days per year are engaged in Class I, II, and III work, or are exposed at or above the permissible exposure limit for combined 30 days or more per year; or who are required by the section to wear negative pressure respirators. For the purpose of this subsection, any day in which an employee engaged in Class II or III work or a combination thereof for one hour or less, and, while doing so adheres to the work practices specified in this standard, shall not count.

(b) Examination by a physician.

(i) The employer shall ensure that all medical examinations and procedures are performed by or under the supervision of a licensed physician, and shall be provided without cost to the employee and at a reasonable time and place.

(ii) Persons other than licensed physicians, who administer the pulmonary function testing required by this section, shall complete a training course in spirometry sponsored by an appropriate academic or professional institution.

(2) Preplacement examinations.

(a) Except as provided by WAC 296-62-07725 (1)(a), before an employee is assigned to an occupation exposed to airborne concentrations of asbestos, a preplacement medical examination shall be provided or made available by the employer. Examinations administered using the thirty or more days per year criteria of WAC 296-62-07725 (1)(a) shall be given within ten working days following the thirtieth day of exposure. Examinations must be given prior to assignment of employees to areas where negative-pressure respirators are worn.

(b) All examinations shall include, as a minimum, a medical and work history: A complete physical examination of all systems with special emphasis on the pulmonary, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal systems; completion of the respiratory disease standardized questionnaire in WAC 296-62-07741, Appendix D, Part 1; a chest roentgenogram (posterior-anterior 14x17 inches); pulmonary function tests to include forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume at 1 second (FEV_1.0); and any additional tests deemed appropriate by the examining physician. Interpretation and classification of chest roentgenograms shall be conducted in accordance with WAC 296-62-07743, Appendix E.

(3) Periodic examinations.

(a) Periodic medical examinations shall be made available annually.

(b) The scope of the medical examination shall be in conformance with the protocol established in subsection (2)(b) of this section, except that the frequency of chest roentgenograms shall be conducted in accordance with Table 2 of this section, and the abbreviated standardized questionnaire contained in WAC 296-62-07741, Appendix D, Part 2, shall be administered to the employee.

TABLE 2--FREQUENCY OF CHEST ROENTGENOGRAMS

Years since first exposure Age of employee

15 to 35 35+ to 45 45+

0 to 10 Every 5 years Every 5 years Every 5 years.

10+ Every 5 years Every 2 years Every 1 year.

(c) If the examining physician determines that any of the examinations should be provided more frequently than specified, the employer shall provide such examinations to affected employees at the frequencies specified by the physician.

(4) Termination of employment examinations.

(a) The employer shall provide, or make available, a termination of employment medical examination for any employee who has been exposed to airborne concentrations of fibers of asbestos at or above the ((~~action level and/or excursion~~)) permissible exposure limits.

(b) The medical examination shall be in accordance with the requirements of the periodic examinations stipulated in subsection (3) of this section, and shall be given within thirty calendar days before or after the date of termination of employment.

(5) Recent examinations. No medical examination is required of any employee, if adequate records show that the employee has been examined in accordance with subsection (2), (3), or (4) of this section within the past one-year period.

(6) Information provided to the physician. The employer shall provide the following information to the examining physician:

(a) A copy of this standard and Appendices D, E, and H of WAC 296-62-07741, 296-62-07743, and 296-62-07749 respectively.

(b) A description of the affected employee's duties as they relate to the employee's exposure.

(d) A description of any personal protective and respiratory equipment used or to be used.

(e) Information from previous medical examinations of the affected employee that is not otherwise available to the examining physician.

(7) Physician's written opinion.

(a) The employer shall obtain a written signed opinion from the examining physician. This written opinion shall contain the results of the medical examination and shall include:

(i) The physician's opinion as to whether the employee has any detected medical conditions that would place the employee at an increased risk of material health impairment from exposure to asbestos;

(ii) Any recommended limitations on the employee or upon the use of personal protective equipment such as clothing or respirators;

(iii) A statement that the employee has been informed by the physician of the results of the medical examination and of any medical conditions resulting from asbestos exposure that require further explanation or treatment; and

(iv) A statement that the employee has been informed by the physician of the increased risk of lung cancer attributable to the combined effect of smoking and asbestos exposure.

(b) The employer shall instruct the physician not to reveal in the written opinion given to the employer specific findings or diagnoses unrelated to occupational exposure to asbestos.

(c) The employer shall provide a copy of the physician's written opinion to the affected employee within thirty days from its receipt.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 91-03-044 (Order 90-18), 296-62-07725, filed 1/10/91, effective 2/12/91; 89-11-035 (Order 89-03), 296-62-07725, filed 5/15/89, effective 6/30/89; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07725, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07725, filed 4/27/87.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 87-24, filed 11/30/87)

WAC 296-62-07727 Recordkeeping. (1) Exposure measurements.

(a) The employer shall keep an accurate record of all measurements taken to monitor employee exposure to asbestos as prescribed in WAC 296-62-07709.

(b) This record shall include at least the following information:

(i) Name of employer;

(ii) Name of person conducting monitoring;

(iii) The date of measurement;

(iv) Address of operation or activity;

(v) Description of the operation or activity involving exposure to asbestos that is being monitored;

(vi) Personal or area sample;

(vii) Name, Social Security number, and exposure level of the employees whose exposures are represented;

(viii) Type of protective devices worn, if any;

(ix) Pump calibration date and flow rate;

(x) Total volume of air sampled;

(xi) Name and address of analytical laboratory;

(xii) Number, duration, and results (f/cc) of samples taken;

(xiii) Date of analysis; and

(xiv) Sampling and analytical methods used and evidence of their accuracy.

(c) The employer shall maintain this record for the duration of employment plus thirty years, in accordance with WAC 296-62-052.

(2) Objective data for exempted operations.

(a) Where the processing, use, or handling of products made from or containing asbestos is exempted from other requirements of this section under WAC 296-62-07709 (2)(c), the employer shall establish and maintain an accurate record of objective data reasonably relied upon in support of the exemption.

(b) The record shall include at least the following:

(i) The product qualifying for exemption;

(ii) The source of the objective data;

(iii) The testing protocol, results of testing, and/or analysis of the material for the release of asbestos;

(iv) A description of the operation exempted and how the data support the exemption; and

(v) Other data relevant to the operations, materials, processing, or employee exposures covered by the exemption.

Note: The employer may utilize the services of competent organizations such as industry trade associations and employee associations to maintain the records required by this section.

(3) Medical surveillance.

(a) The employer shall establish and maintain an accurate record for each employee subject to medical surveillance by WAC 296-62-07725 (1)(a), in accordance with WAC 296-62-052.

(b) The record shall include at least the following information:

(i) The name and Social Security number of the employee;

(ii) Physician's written opinions;

(iii) Any employee medical complaints related to exposure to asbestos;

(iv) A copy of the information provided to the physician as required by WAC 296-62-07725(6); and

(v) A copy of the employee's medical examination results, including the medical history, questionnaire responses, results of any tests, and physicians recommendations.

(c) The employer shall ensure that this record is maintained for the duration of employment plus thirty years, in accordance with WAC 296-62-052.

(4) Training. The employer shall maintain all employee training records for one year beyond the last date of employment of that employee.

(5) Availability.

(a) The employer, upon written request, shall make all records required to be maintained by this section available to the director for examination and copying.

(b) The employer, upon request, shall make any exposure records required by subsection (1) of this section available for examination and copying to affected employees, former employees, designated representatives, and the director, in accordance with WAC 296-62-05201 through 296-62-05209 and 296-62-05213 through 296-62-05217.

(c) The employer, upon request, shall make employee medical records required by subsection (2) of this section available for examination and copying to the subject employee, to anyone having the specific written consent of the subject employee, and the director, in accordance with WAC 296-62-052.

(6) Transfer of records.

(a) The employer shall comply with the requirements concerning transfer of records set forth in WAC 296-62-05215.

(b) Whenever the employer ceases to do business and there is no successor employer to receive and retain the records for the prescribed period, the employer shall notify the director at least ninety days prior to disposal of records and, upon request, transmit them to the director.

(7) Data to rebut PACM. Where the building owner and employer have relied on data to demonstrate that PACM is not asbestos-containing, such data shall be maintained for as long as they are relied upon to rebut the presumption.

(8) Records of required notifications. Where the building owner has communicated and received information concerning the identification, location and quantity of ACM and PACM, written records of such notifications and their content shall be maintained by the building owner for the duration of ownership and shall be transferred to successive owners of such buildings/facilities.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07727, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07727, filed 4/27/87.]

NEW SECTION

WAC 296-62-07728 Competent person. (1) General. For all construction and shipyard work covered by this standard, the employer shall designate a competent person, having the qualifications and authorities for ensuring worker safety and health as required by chapter 296-155 WAC.

(2) Required inspections by the competent person. WAC 296-155-110(9) which requires health and safety prevention programs to provide for frequent and regular inspections on the job sites, materials, and equipment to be made by the competent person, is incorporated.

(3) Additional inspections. In addition, the competent person shall make frequent and regular inspections of the job sites in order to perform the duties set out below in this section. For Class I jobs, on-site inspections shall be made at least once during each work shift, and at any time at employee request. For Class II and III jobs, on-site inspections shall be made at intervals sufficient to assess whether conditions have changed, and at any reasonable time at employee request.

(a) On all worksites where employees are engaged in Class I or II asbestos work, the competent person designated in accordance with WAC 296-62-07712 shall perform or supervise the following duties, as applicable:

(i) Set up the regulated area, enclosure, or other containment;

(ii) Ensure (by on-site inspection) the integrity of the enclosure or containment;

(iii) Set up procedures to control entry and exit from the enclosure and/or area;

(iv) Supervise all employee exposure monitoring required by this section and ensure that it is conducted as required by WAC 296-62-07709;

(v) Ensure that employees working within the enclosure and/or using glovebags wear protective clothing and respirators as required by WAC 296-62-07715 and 296-62-07717;

(vi) Ensure through on-site supervision, that employees set up and remove engineering controls, use work practices and personal protective equipment in compliance with all requirements;

(vii) Ensure that employees use the hygiene facilities and observe the decontamination procedures specified in WAC 296-62-07719;

(viii) Ensure that through on-site inspection engineering controls are functioning properly and employees are using proper work practices; and

(ix) Ensure that notification requirements in WAC 296-62-07721 are met.

(4) Training for competent person.

(a) For Class I and II asbestos work the competent person shall be trained in all aspects of asbestos removal and handling, including: Abatement, installation, removal and handling, the contents of this standard, the identification of asbestos, removal procedures where appropriate, and other practices for reducing the hazard. Such training shall be the certified asbestos supervisor training specified in WAC 296-65-003, 296-65-012, and 296-65-030.

(b) For Class III and IV asbestos work:

(i) The competent person shall be certified as an asbestos supervisor as prescribed in WAC 296-65-012 and 296-65-030 for Class III and IV work involving 3 square feet or 3 linear feet or more of asbestos containing material.

(ii) For Class III and IV asbestos work involving less than 3 square feet or 3 linear feet of asbestos containing material, and asbestos work exempted from certification requirements in chapter 296-65 WAC, the competent person shall be trained in aspects of asbestos handling appropriate for the nature of the work, to include procedures for setting up glove bags and mini-enclosures, practices for reducing asbestos exposures, use of wet methods, the contents of this standard, and the identification of asbestos. Such training shall include successful completion of a course equivalent in curriculum and training method to the 16-hour Operations and Maintenance course developed by EPA for maintenance and custodial workers (see (b)(i) of this subsection) or its equivalent in stringency, content and length.

[]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 90-18, filed 1/10/91, effective 2/12/91)

WAC 296-62-07733 Appendices. ((~~(1) The following appendices to this chapter are mandatory.~~

~~(a) WAC 296-62-07735, Appendix A--WISHA reference method--Mandatory.~~

~~(b) WAC 296-62-07739, Appendix C--Qualitative and quantitative fit testing procedures--Mandatory.~~

~~(c) WAC 296-62-07741, Appendix D--Medical questionnaires--Mandatory.~~

~~(d) WAC 296-62-07743, Appendix E--Interpretation and classification of chest roentgenograms--Mandatory.~~

~~(2) The following appendices to this section are informational and are not intended to create any additional obligations not otherwise imposed or to detract from any existing obligations.~~

~~(a) WAC 296-62-07737, Appendix B--Detailed procedure for asbestos sampling and analysis--Nonmandatory.~~

~~(b) WAC 296-62-07745, Appendix F--Work practices and engineering controls for automotive brake repair operations--Nonmandatory.~~

~~(c) WAC 296-62-07747, Appendix G--Substance technical information for asbestos--Nonmandatory.~~

~~(d) WAC 296-62-07749, Appendix H--Medical surveillance guidelines for asbestos--Nonmandatory.~~

~~(e) WAC 296-62-07751, Appendix I--Work practices and engineering controls for major asbestos removal, renovation, and demolition operations--Nonmandatory.~~

~~(f) WAC 296-62-07753, Appendix J--Work practices and engineering controls for small-scale, short-duration asbestos renovation and maintenance activities--Nonmandatory.~~

~~(g) WAC 296-62-07755, Appendix K--Smoking cessation program information for asbestos, tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite--Nonmandatory.~~)) (1) Appendices A, C, D, E, and F to this part are incorporated as part of this section and the contents of these appendices are mandatory.

(2) Appendices B, G, H, I, J and K to this part are informational and are not intended to create any additional obligations not otherwise imposed or to detract from any existing obligations.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 91-03-044 (Order 90-18), 296-62-07733, filed 1/10/91, effective 2/12/91; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07733, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07733, filed 4/27/87.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 87-24, filed 11/30/87)

WAC 296-62-07735 Appendix A--WISHA reference method--Mandatory. This mandatory appendix specifies the procedure for analyzing air samples for asbestos, tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite and specifies quality control procedures that must be implemented by laboratories performing the analysis. The sampling and analytical methods described below represent the elements of the available monitoring methods (such as Appendix B to this section, the most current version of the WISHA method ID-60, or the most current version of the NIOSH 7400 method) which WISHA considers to be essential to achieve adequate employee exposure monitoring while allowing employers to use methods that are already established within their organizations. All employers who are required to conduct air monitoring under WAC 296-62-07709 are required to utilize analytical laboratories that use this procedure, or an equivalent method ((~~recognized by the department~~)), for collecting and analyzing samples.

(1) Sampling and analytical procedure.

(a) The sampling medium for air samples shall be mixed cellulose ester filter membranes. These shall be designated by the manufacturer as suitable for asbestos, tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite counting. See below for rejection of blanks.

(b) The preferred collection device shall be the 25-mm diameter cassette with an open-faced 50-mm electrically conductive extension cowl. The 37-mm cassette may be used if necessary but only if written justification for the need to use the 37-mm filter cassette accompanies the sample results in the employee's exposure monitoring record. Do not reuse or reload cassettes for asbestos sample collection.

(c) An air flow rate between 0.5 liter/min and ((~~4.0~~)) 2.5 liters/min shall be selected for the 25-mm cassette. If the 37-mm cassette is used, an air flow rate between 1 liter/min and 4.0 liters/min shall be selected.

(d) Where possible, a sufficient air volume for each air sample shall be collected to yield between one hundred and one thousand three hundred fibers per square millimeter on the membrane filter. If a filter darkens in appearance or if loose dust is seen on the filter, a second sample shall be started.

(e) Ship the samples in a rigid container with sufficient packing material to prevent dislodging the collected fibers. Packing material that has a high electrostatic charge on its surface (e.g., expanded polystyrene) cannot be used because such material can cause loss of fibers to the sides of the cassette.

(f) Calibrate each personal sampling pump before and after use with a representative filter cassette installed between the pump and the calibration devices.

(g) Personal samples shall be taken in the "breathing zone" of the employee (i.e., attached to or near the collar or lapel near the worker's face).

(h) Fiber counts shall be made by positive phase contrast using a microscope with an 8 to 10 X eyepiece and a 40 to 45 X objective for a total magnification of approximately 400 X and a numerical aperture of 0.65 to 0.75. The microscope shall also be fitted with a green or blue filter.

(i) The microscope shall be fitted with a Walton-Beckett eyepiece graticule calibrated for a field diameter of one hundred micrometers (+/-2 micrometers).

(j) The phase-shift detection limit of the microscope shall be about 3 degrees measured using the HSE phase shift test slide as outlined below.

(i) Place the test slide on the microscope stage and center it under the phase objective.

(ii) Bring the blocks of grooved lines into focus.

Note: The slide consists of seven sets of grooved lines (ca. 20 grooves to each block) in descending order of visibility from sets one to seven, seven being the least visible. The requirements for asbestos, tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite counting are that the microscope optics must resolve the grooved lines in set three completely, although they may appear somewhat faint, and that the grooved lines in sets six and seven must be invisible. Sets four and five must be at least partially visible but may vary slightly in visibility between microscopes. A microscope that fails to meet these requirements has either too low or too high a resolution to be used for asbestos, tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite counting.

(iii) If the image deteriorates, clean and adjust the microscope optics. If the problem persists, consult the microscope manufacturer.

(k) Each set of samples taken will include ten percent blanks or a minimum of two blanks. ((~~The~~)) These blanks ((~~results shall be averaged and subtracted from the analytical results before reporting~~)) must come from the same lot as the filters used for sample collection. The field blank results shall be averaged and subtracted from the analytical results before reporting. Any samples represented by a blank having a fiber count in excess of ((~~seven fibers/one hundred fields~~)) the detection limit of the method being used shall be rejected.

(l) The samples shall be mounted by the acetone/triacetin method or a method with an equivalent index of refraction and similar clarity.

(m) Observe the following counting rules.

(i) Count only fibers equal to or longer than five micrometers. Measure the length of curved fibers along the curve.

(ii) ((~~In the absence of other information,~~)) Count all particles as asbestos, tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite that have a length-to-width ratio (aspect ratio) of three to one or greater.

(iii) Fibers lying entirely within the boundary of the Walton-Beckett graticule field shall receive a count of one. Fibers crossing the boundary once, having one end within the circle, shall receive the count of one-half. Do not count any fiber that crosses the graticule boundary more than once. Reject and do not count any other fibers even though they may be visible outside the graticule area.

(iv) Count bundles of fibers as one fiber unless individual fibers can be identified by observing both ends of an individual fiber.

(v) ((For a 25mm filter, count enough graticule fields to yield one hundred fibers by counting a minimum of twenty fields. If less than ten fibers are found after counting one hundred fields and the sample air volume is less than sixty liters, count a total number of fields calculated from the following formulas:

~~N = 6000/V For TWA Determination (QL = 0.085)~~

~~N = 2400/V For Ceiling Determinations (QL = 0.21)~~

~~Where N = Number of fields counted on a 25mm filter~~

~~V = Air volume of sample in liters~~

~~QL = Limit of reliable quantification in fibers/cc~~

~~for the NIOSH 7400 method~~

~~Note: Filter samples (25mm) with air volumes of less than thirty liters will have decreased analytical accuracy and precision and should be avoided.~~

(vi) For a 37mm filter, count enough graticule fields to yield one hundred fibers by counting a minimum of twenty fields. If less than one hundred fibers are found after counting one hundred fields and the sample air volume is less than one hundred thirty-three liters, count a total number of fields calculated from the following formulas:

~~N = 13300/V For TWA Determination (QL = 0.085)~~

~~N = 5320/V For Ceiling Determinations (QL = 0.21)~~

~~Where N = Number of fields counted on a 37mm filter~~

~~V = Air volume of sample in liters~~

~~QL = Limit of reliable quantification in fibers/cc~~

~~Note: Filter samples (37mm) with air volumes of less than seventy liters will have decreased analytical accuracy and precision and should be avoided.~~)) Count enough graticule fields to yield 100 fibers. Count a minimum of 20 fields; stop counting at 100 fields regardless of fiber count.

(n) Blind recounts shall be conducted at the rate of ten percent.

(2) Quality control procedures.

(a) Intralaboratory program. Each laboratory and/or each company with more than one microscopist counting slides shall establish a statistically designed quality assurance program involving blind recounts and comparisons between microscopists to monitor the variability of counting by each microscopist and between microscopists. In a company with more than one laboratory, the program shall include all laboratories and shall also evaluate the laboratory-to-laboratory variability.

(b) Interlaboratory program.

(i) Each laboratory analyzing asbestos, tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite samples for compliance determination shall implement an interlaboratory quality assurance program that as a minimum includes participation of at least two other independent laboratories. Each laboratory shall participate in round robin testing at least once every six months with at least all the other laboratories in its interlaboratory quality assurance group. Each laboratory shall submit slides typical of its own work load for use in this program. The round robin shall be designed and results analyzed using appropriate statistical methodology.

(ii) All laboratories should participate in a national sample testing scheme such as the Proficiency Analytical Testing Program (PAT), the Asbestos Registry sponsored by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA).

(c) All individuals performing asbestos, tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite analysis must have taken the NIOSH course for sampling and evaluating airborne asbestos, tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite dust or an equivalent course, recognized by the department.

(d) When the use of different microscopes contributes to differences between counters and laboratories, the effect of the different microscope shall be evaluated and the microscope shall be replaced, as necessary.

(e) Current results of these quality assurance programs shall be posted in each laboratory to keep the microscopists informed.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07735, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07735, filed 4/27/87.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 87-24, filed 11/30/87)

WAC 296-62-07737 Appendix B--Detailed procedure for asbestos sampling and analysis--Nonmandatory. ((This appendix contains a detailed procedure for sampling and analysis and includes those critical elements specified in WAC 296-62-07735, Appendix A. Employers are not required to use this procedure, but they are required to use Appendix A. The purpose of Appendix B is to provide a detailed step-by-step sampling and analysis procedure that conforms to the elements specified in WAC 296-62-07735, Appendix A. Since this procedure may also standardize the analysis and reduce variability, WISHA encourages employers to use this appendix.

~~Asbestos Sampling and Analysis Method~~

~~Technique: Microscopy, phase contrast.~~

~~Analyte: Fibers (manual count).~~

~~Sample~~

~~preparation: Acetone/triacetin method.~~

~~Calibration: Phase-shift detection limit about three degrees.~~

~~Range: One hundred to one thousand three hundred fibers/mm² filter area.~~

~~Estimated limit~~

~~of detection: Seven fibers/mm²filter area.~~

~~Sampler: Filter (0.8-1.2 um mixed cellulose ester membrane, 25-mm diameter).~~

~~Flow rate: 0.5 L/min to 4.0 L/min (25-mm cassette) 1.0 L/min to 4.0 L/min (37-mm cassette).~~

~~Sample volume: Adjust to obtain one hundred to one thousand three hundred fibers/mm².~~

~~Shipment: Routine.~~

~~Sample stability: Indefinite.~~

~~Blanks: Ten percent of samples (minimum two).~~

~~Standard~~

~~analytical error: 0.25.~~

Applicability: The working range is 0.02 f/cc (1920-L air sample) to 1.25 f/cc (400-L air sample). The method gives an index of airborne asbestos fibers but may be used for other materials such as fibrous glass by inserting suitable parameters into the counting rules. The method does not differentiate between asbestos and other fibers. Asbestos fibers less than ca. 0.25 um diameter will not be detected by this method.

Interferences: Any other airborne fiber may interfere since all particles meeting the counting criteria are counted. Chain-like particles may appear fibrous. High levels of nonfibrous dust particles may obscure fibers in the field of view and raise the detection limit.

~~(1) Reagents.~~

~~(a) Acetone.~~

~~(b) Triacetin (glycerol triacetate), reagent grade.~~

Special precautions: Acetone is an extremely flammable liquid and precautions must be taken not to ignite it. Heating of acetone must be done in a ventilated laboratory fume hood using a flameless, spark-free heat source.

~~(2) Equipment.~~

~~(a) Collection device: 25-mm cassette with 50-mm electrically conductive extension cowl with cellulose ester filter, 0.8 to 1.2 mm pore size and backup pad.~~

~~Note: Analyze representative filters for fiber background before use and discard the filter lot if more than five fibers/one hundred fields are found.~~

~~(b) Personal sampling pump, greater than or equal to 0.5 L/min. with flexible connecting tubing.~~

~~(c) Microscope, phase contrast, with green or blue filter, 8 to 10 X eyepiece, and 40 to 45 X phase objective (total magnification ca. 400 X); numerical aperture = 0.65 to 0.75.~~

~~(d) Slides, glass, single-frosted, precleaned, 25 x 75 mm.~~

~~(e) Cover slips, 25 x 25 mm, No. 1 1/2 unless otherwise specified by microscope manufacturer.~~

~~(f) Knife, No. 1 surgical steel, curved blade.~~

~~(g) Tweezers.~~

~~(h) Flask, Guth-type, insulated neck, 250 to 500 mL (with single-hole rubber stopper and elbow-jointed glass tubing, 16 to 22 cm long).~~

~~(i) Hotplate, spark-free, stirring type; heating mantle; or infrared lamp and magnetic stirrer.~~

~~(j) Syringe, hypodermic, with 22-gauge needle.~~

~~(k) Graticule, Walton-Beckett type with 100 um diameter circular field at the specimen plane (area = 0.00785 mm ²), (Type G-22).~~

~~Note: The graticule is custom-made for each microscope.~~

~~(l) HSE/NPL phase contrast test slide, Mark II.~~

~~(m) Telescope, ocular phase-ring centering.~~

~~(n) Stage micrometer (0.01 mm divisions).~~

~~(3) Sampling.~~

~~(a) Calibrate each personal sampling pump with a representative sampler in line.~~

(b) Fasten the sampler to the worker's lapel as close as possible to the worker's mouth. Remove the top cover from the end of the cowl extension (open face) and orient face down. Wrap the joint between the extender and the monitors body with shrink tape to prevent air leaks.

(c) Submit at least two blanks (or ten percent of the total samples, whichever is greater) for each set of samples. Remove the caps from the field blank cassettes and store the caps and cassettes in a clean area (bag or box) during the sampling period. Replace the caps in the cassettes when sampling is completed.

(d) Sample at 0.5 L/min or greater. Do not exceed 1 mg total dust loading on the filter. Adjust sampling flow rate, Q (L/min), and time to produce a fiber density, E (fibers/mm²), of one hundred to one thousand three hundred fibers/mm² (3.85 x 10⁴ to 5 x 10⁵ fibers per 25-mm filter with effective collection area (A_c=385 mm²)) for optimum counting precision (see subsection (7)(a) of this section). Calculate the minimum sampling time, T (minutes) at the action level (one-half of the current standard), L (f/cc) of the fibrous aerosol being sampled:

~~(A_c)(E)~~

~~T =~~

~~(Q)(L)10³~~

~~(e) Remove the field monitor at the end of sampling, replace the plastic top cover and small end caps, and store the monitor.~~

~~(f) Ship the samples in a rigid container with sufficient packing material to prevent jostling or damage.~~

~~Note: Do not use polystyrene foam in the shipping container because of electrostatic forces which may cause fiber loss from the sample filter.~~

~~(4) Sample preparation.~~

Note: The object is to produce samples with a smooth (nongrainy) background in a medium with a refractive index equal to or less than 1.46. The method below collapses the filter for easier focusing and produces permanent mounts which are useful for quality control and interlaboratory comparison. Other mounting techniques meeting the above criteria may also be used, e.g., the nonpermanent field mounting technique used in P & CAM 239.

~~(a) Ensure that the glass slides and cover slips are free of dust and fibers.~~

(b) Place 40 to 60 ml of acetone into a Guth-type flask. Stopper the flask with a single-hole rubber stopper through which a glass tube extends 5 to 8 cm into the flask. The portion of the glass tube that exits the top of the stopper (8 to ten cm) is bent downward in an elbow that makes an angle of twenty to thirty degrees with the horizontal.

~~(c) Place the flask in a stirring hotplate or wrap in a heating mantle. Heat the acetone gradually to its boiling temperature (ca. 58C).~~

Caution: The acetone vapor must be generated in a ventilated fume hood away from all open flames and spark sources. Alternate heating methods can be used, providing no open flame or sparks are present.

~~(d) Mount either the whole sample filter or a wedge cut from the sample filter on a clean glass slide.~~

~~(i) Cut wedges of ca. twenty-five percent of the filter area with a curved-blade steel surgical knife using a rocking motion to prevent tearing.~~

~~(ii) Place the filter or wedge, dust slide up, on the slide. Static electricity will usually keep the filter on the slide until it is cleared.~~

(iii) Hold the glass slide supporting the filter approximately 1 to 2 cm from the glass tube port where the acetone vapor is escaping from the heated flask. The acetone vapor stream should cause a condensation spot on the glass slide ca. 2 to 3 cm in diameter. Move the glass slide gently in the vapor stream. The filter should clear in two to five seconds. If the filter curls, distorts, or is otherwise rendered unusable, the vapor stream is probably not strong enough. Periodically wipe the outlet port with tissue to prevent liquid acetone dripping onto the filter.

(iv) Using the hypodermic syringe with a 22-gauge needle, place one to two drops of triacetin on the filter. Gently lower a clean 25-mm square cover slip down onto the filter at a slight angle to reduce the possibility of forming bubbles. If too many bubbles form or the amount of triacetin is insufficient, the cover slip may become detached within a few hours.

~~(v) Glue the edges of the cover slip to the glass slide using a lacquer or nail polish.~~

Note: If clearing is slow, the slide preparation may be heated on a hotplate (surface temperature 50C) for fifteen minutes to hasten clearing. Counting may proceed immediately after clearing and mounting are completed.

~~(5) Calibration and quality control.~~

~~(a) Calibration of the Walton-Beckett graticule. The diameter, d_c(mm), of the circular counting area and the disc diameter must be specified when ordering the graticule.~~

~~(i) Insert any available graticule into the eyepiece and focus so that the graticule lines are sharp and clear.~~

~~(ii) Set the appropriate interpupillary distance and, if applicable, reset the binocular head adjustment so that the magnification remains constant.~~

~~(iii) Install the 40 to 45 X phase objective.~~

~~(iv) Place a stage micrometer on the microscope object stage and focus the microscope on the graduated lines.~~

~~(v) Measure the magnified grid length, L_o(um) using the stage micrometer.~~

~~(vi) Remove the graticule from the microscope and measure its actual grid length, L_a(mm). This can best be accomplished by using a stage fitted with verniers.~~

~~(vii) Calculate the circle diameter, d_c(mm), for the Walton-Beckett graticule:~~

~~La x D~~

~~d_c =~~

~~L_o~~

~~Example: If L_o = 108 um, L_a = 2.93 mm and D = 100 um, then d_c = 2.71 mm.~~

~~(viii) Check the field diameter, D (acceptable range 100 mm 2 mm) with a stage micrometer upon receipt of the graticule from the manufacturer. Determine field area (mm²).~~

~~(b) Microscope adjustments. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and also the following:~~

~~(i) Adjust the light source for even illumination across the field of view at the condenser iris.~~

~~Note: Kohler illumination is preferred, where available.~~

~~(ii) Focus on the particulate material to be examined.~~

~~(iii) Make sure that the field iris is in focus, centered on the sample, and open only enough to fully illuminate the field of view.~~

~~(iv) Use the telescope ocular supplied by the manufacturer to ensure that the phase rings (annular diaphragm and phase-shifting elements) are concentric.~~

~~(c) Check the phase-shift detection limit of the microscope periodically.~~

~~(i) Remove the HSE/NPL phase-contrast test slide from its shipping container and center it under the phase objective.~~

~~(ii) Bring the blocks of grooved lines into focus.~~

Note: The slide consists of seven sets of grooves (ca. 20 grooves to each block) in descending order of visibility from sets one to seven. The requirements for counting are that the microscope optics must resolve the grooved lines in set three completely, although they may appear somewhat faint, and that the grooved lines in sets six to seven must be invisible. Sets four and five must be at least partially visible but may vary slightly in visibility between microscopes. A microscope which fails to meet these requirements has either too low or too high a resolution to be used for asbestos, tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite counting.

~~(iii) If the image quality deteriorates, clean the microscope optics and, if the problem persists, consult the microscope manufacturer.~~

~~(d) Quality control of fiber counts.~~

(i) Prepare and count field blanks along with the field samples. Report the counts on each blank. Calculate the mean of the field blank counts and subtract this value from each sample count before reporting the results.

~~Note 1: The identity of the blank filters should be unknown to the counter until all counts have been completed.~~

~~Note 2: If a field blank yields fiber counts greater than seven fibers/one hundred fields, report possible contamination of the samples.~~

~~(ii) Perform blind recounts by the same counter on ten percent of filters counted (slides relabeled by a person other than the counter).~~

(e) Use the following test to determine whether a pair of counts on the same filter should be rejected because of possible bias. This statistic estimates the counting repeatability at the ninety-five percent confidence level. Discard the sample if the difference between the two counts exceeds 2.77(F)sr, where F = average of the two fiber counts and Sr = relative standard deviation, which should be derived by each laboratory based on historical in-house data.

~~Note: If a pair of counts is rejected as a result of this test, recount the remaining samples in the set and test the new counts against the first counts. Discard all rejected paired counts.~~

~~(f) Enroll each new counter in a training course that compares performance of counters on a variety of samples using this procedure.~~

Note: To ensure good reproducibility, all laboratories engaged in asbestos counting are required to participate in the proficiency analytical testing (PAT) program and should routinely participate with other asbestos fiber counting laboratories in the exchange of field samples to compare performance of counters.

~~(6) Measurement.~~

~~(a) Place the slide on the mechanical stage of the calibrated microscope with the center of the filter under the objective lens. Focus the microscope on the plane of the filter.~~

~~(b) Regularly check phase-ring alignment and Kohler illumination.~~

~~(c) The following are the counting rules:~~

~~(i) Count only fibers 5 um or longer in length. Measure the length of curved fibers along the curve.~~

~~(ii) Count only fibers with a length-to-width ratio equal to or greater than three to one.~~

~~(iii) For fibers that cross the boundary of the graticule field, do the following:~~

~~(A) Count any fiber 5 um or longer in length that lies entirely within the graticule area.~~

~~(B) Count as one-half fiber any fiber with only one end lying within the graticule area.~~

~~(C) Do not count any fiber that crosses the graticule boundary more than once.~~

~~(D) Reject and do not count all other fibers.~~

~~(iv) Count bundles of fibers as one fiber unless individual fibers can be identified by observing both ends of a fiber.~~

(v) For a 25mm filter, count enough graticule fields to yield one hundred fibers by counting a minimum of twenty fields. If less than ten fibers are found after counting one hundred fields and the sample air volume is less than sixty liters, count a total number of fields calculated from the following formulas:

~~N = 6000/V For TWA Determination (QL = 0.085)~~

~~N = 2400/V For Ceiling Determinations (QL = 0.21)~~

~~Where N = Number of fields counted on a 25mm filter~~

~~V = Air volume of sample in liters~~

~~QL = Limit of reliable quantification in fibers/cc~~

~~for the NIOSH 7400 method~~

~~Note: Filter samples (25mm) with air volumes of less than thirty liters will have decreased analytical accuracy and precision and should be avoided.~~

~~N = 13300/V For TWA Determination (QL = 0.085)~~

~~N = 5320/V For Ceiling Determinations (QL = 0.21)~~

~~Where N = Number of fields counted on a 37mm filter~~

~~V = Air volume of sample in liters~~

~~QL = Limit of reliable quantification in fibers/cc~~

~~Note: Filter samples (37mm) with air volumes of less than seventy liters will have decreased analytical accuracy and precision and should be avoided.~~

(d) Start counting from one end of the filter and progress along a radial line to the other end, shift either up or down on the filter, and continue in the reverse direction. Select fields randomly by looking away from the eyepiece briefly while advancing the mechanical stage. When an agglomerate covers ca. 1/6 or more of the field of view, reject the field and select another. Do not report rejected fields in the number of total fields counted.

Note: When counting a field, continuously scan a range of focal planes by moving the fine focus knob to detect very fine fibers which have become embedded in the filter. The small-diameter fibers will be very faint but are an important contribution to the total count.

~~(7) Calculations.~~

(a) Calculate and report fiber density on the filter, E (fibers/mm²); by dividing the total fiber count, F; minus the mean field blank count, B, by the number of fields, n; and the field area, A_f(0.00785 mm² for a properly calibrated Walton-Beckett graticule):

~~(F/n_f)-(B/n_b)~~

~~E = fibers/mm²~~

~~(A_f)~~

~~Where: n_f = number of fields in submission sample~~

~~n_b = number of fields in blank sample~~

~~(b) Calculate the concentration, C (f/cc), of fibers in the air volume sampled, V (L), using the effective collection area of the filter, A_c(385 mm² for a 25-mm filter):~~

~~(E)(Ac)~~

~~C =~~

~~V(10³)~~

~~Note: Periodically check and adjust the value of A_c, if necessary.~~

~~Bulk sample collection and analysis.~~

Bulk samples should be collected as specified in Appendix G, Section 1 of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) publication No. 560/5-85-024 (June 1985) entitled Guidance for Controlling Asbestos-Containing Materials in Buildings.

Analysis of the samples should be conducted by polarizing light microscopy in a qualified laboratory. In certain cases, x-ray diffraction may be required to confirm the presence of asbestos. Qualified laboratories must be participants in the EPA bulk asbestos quality assurance program or other bulk asbestos quality assurance program recognized by the department.))

Air

Matrix:

WISHA Permissible Exposure Limits:

Time Weighted Average 0.1 fiber/cc

Excursion Level (30 minutes) 1.0 fiber/cc

Collection Procedure:

A known volume of air is drawn through a 25-mm diameter cassette containing a mixed-cellulose ester filter. The cassette must be equipped with an electrically conductive 50-mm extension cowl. The sampling time and rate are chosen to give a fiber density of between 100 to 1,300 fibers/mm² on the filter.

Recommended Sampling Rate 0.5 to 5.0 liters/minute (L/min)

Recommended Air Volumes:

Minimum 25 L

Maximum 2,400 L

Analytical Procedure: A portion of the sample filter is cleared and prepared for asbestos fiber counting by Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM) at 400X. Commercial manufacturers and products mentioned in this method are for descriptive use only and do not constitute endorsements by WISHA. Similar products from other sources can be substituted.

Introduction.

This method describes the collection of airborne asbestos fibers using calibrated sampling pumps with mixed-cellulose ester (MCE) filters and analysis by phase contrast microscopy (PCM). Some terms used are unique to this method and are defined below:

Asbestos: A term for naturally occurring fibrous minerals. Asbestos includes chrysotile, crocidolite, amosite (cummingtonite-grunerite asbestos), tremolite asbestos, actinolite asbestos, anthophyllite asbestos, and any of these minerals that have been chemically treated and/or altered. The precise chemical formulation of each species will vary with the location from which it was mined. Nominal compositions are listed:

Chrysotile Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄

Crocidolite Na₂Fe₃²+Fe₂³+Si₈O₂₂(OH)₂

Amosite (Mg,Fe)₇Si₈O₂₂(OH)₂

Tremolite-actinolite Ca₂(Mg,Fe)₅Si₈O₂₂(OH)₂

Anthophyllite (Mg,Fe)₇Si₈O₂₂(OH)₂

Asbestos Fiber: A fiber of asbestos which meets the criteria specified below for a fiber.

Aspect Ratio: The ratio of the length of a fiber to it's diameter (e.g. 3:1, 5:1 aspect ratios).

Cleavage Fragments: Mineral particles formed by comminution of minerals, especially those characterized by parallel sides and a moderate aspect ratio (usually less than 20:1).

Detection Limit: The number of fibers necessary to be 95% certain that the result is greater than zero.

Differential Counting: The term applied to the practice of excluding certain kinds of fibers from the fiber count because they do not appear to be asbestos.

Fiber: A particle that is 5 m or longer, with a length-to-width ratio of 3 to 1 or longer.

Field: The area within the graticule circle that is superimposed on the microscope image.

Set: The samples which are taken, submitted to the laboratory, analyzed, and for which, interim or final result reports are generated.

Tremolite, Anthophyllite, and Actinolite: The non-asbestos form of these minerals which meet the definition of a fiber. It includes any of these minerals that have been chemically treated and/or altered.

Walton-Beckett Graticule: An eyepiece graticule specifically designed for asbestos fiber counting. It consists of a circle with a projected diameter of 100 2 m (area of about 0.00785 mm²) with a crosshair having tic-marks at 3-m intervals in one direction and 5-m in the orthogonal direction. There are marks around the periphery of the circle to demonstrate the proper sizes and shapes of fibers. The disk is placed in one of the microscope eyepieces so that the design is superimposed on the field of view.

1. History.

(a) Early surveys to determine asbestos exposures were conducted using impinger counts of total dust with the counts expressed as million particles per cubic foot. The British Asbestos Research Council recommended filter membrane counting in 1969. In July 1969, the Bureau of Occupational Safety and Health published a filter membrane method for counting asbestos fibers in the United States. This method was refined by NIOSH and published as P & CAM 239. On May 29, 1971, OSHA specified filter membrane sampling with phase contrast counting for evaluation of asbestos exposures at work sites in the United States. The use of this technique was again required by OSHA in 1986. Phase contrast microscopy has continued to be the method of choice for the measurement of occupational exposure to asbestos.

(b) Principle. Air is drawn through a MCE filter to capture airborne asbestos fibers. A wedge shaped portion of the filter is removed, placed on a glass microscope slide and made transparent. A measured area (field) is viewed by PCM. All the fibers meeting a defined criteria for asbestos are counted and considered a measure of the airborne asbestos concentration.

(i) There are four main advantages of PCM over other methods:

(A) The technique is specific for fibers. Phase contrast is a fiber counting technique which excludes non-fibrous particles from the analysis.

(B) The technique is inexpensive and does not require specialized knowledge to carry out the analysis for total fiber counts.

(D) The technique has continuity with historical epidemiological studies so that estimates of expected disease can be inferred from long-term determinations of asbestos exposures.

(ii) The main disadvantage of PCM is that it does not positively identify asbestos fibers. Other fibers which are not asbestos may be included in the count unless differential counting is performed. This requires a great deal of experience to adequately differentiate asbestos from non-asbestos fibers. Positive identification of asbestos must be performed by polarized light or electron microscopy techniques. A further disadvantage of PCM is that the smallest visible fibers are about 0.2 m in diameter while the finest asbestos fibers may be as small as 0.02 m in diameter. For some exposures, substantially more fibers may be present than are actually counted.

(d) Workplace Exposure. Asbestos is used by the construction industry in such products as shingles, floor tiles, asbestos cement, roofing felts, insulation and acoustical products. Non-construction uses include brakes, clutch facings, paper, paints, plastics, and fabrics. One of the most significant exposures in the workplace is the removal and encapsulation of asbestos in schools, public buildings, and homes. Many workers have the potential to be exposed to asbestos during these operations. About 95% of the asbestos in commercial use in the United States is chrysotile. Crocidolite and amosite make up most of the remainder. Anthophyllite and tremolite or actinolite are likely to be encountered as contaminants in various industrial products.

(e) Physical Properties. Asbestos fiber possesses a high tensile strength along its axis, is chemically inert, non-combustible, and heat resistant. It has a high electrical resistance and good sound absorbing properties. It can be weaved into cables, fabrics or other textiles, and also matted into asbestos papers, felts, or mats.

2. Range and Detection Limit.

(a) The ideal counting range on the filter is 100 to 1,300 fibers/mm². With a Walton-Beckett graticule this range is equivalent to 0.8 to 10 fibers/field. Using NIOSH counting statistics, a count of 0.8 fibers/field would give an approximate coefficient of variation (CV) of 0.13.

(b) The detection limit for this method is 4.0 fibers per 100 fields or 5.5 fibers/mm². This was determined using an equation to estimate the maximum CV possible at a specific concentration (95% confidence) and a Lower Control Limit of zero. The CV value was then used to determine a corresponding concentration from historical CV vs fiber relationships. As an example:

Lower Control Limit (95% Confidence) = AC--1.645(CV)(AC)

Where:

AC = Estimate of the airborne fiber concentration (fibers/cc) Setting the Lower Control Limit = 0 and solving for CV:

0 = AC--1.645(CV)(AC)

CV = 0.61

This value was compared with CV vs. count curves. The count at which CV = 0.61 for Leidel-Busch counting statistics 8(i) or for an OSHA Salt Lake Technical Center (OSHA-SLTC) CV curve (see Appendix A for further information) was 4.4 fibers or 3.9 fibers per 100 fields, respectively. Although a lower detection limit of 4 fibers per 100 fields is supported by the OSHA-SLTC data, both data sets support the 4.5 fibers per 100 fields value.

3. Method Performance--Precision and Accuracy. Precision is dependent upon the total number of fibers counted and the uniformity of the fiber distribution on the filter. A general rule is to count at least 20 and not more than 100 fields. The count is discontinued when 100 fibers are counted, provided that 20 fields have already been counted. Counting more than 100 fibers results in only a small gain in precision. As the total count drops below 10 fibers, an accelerated loss of precision is noted. At this time, there is no known method to determine the absolute accuracy of the asbestos analysis. Results of samples prepared through the Proficiency Analytical Testing (PAT) Program and analyzed by the OSHA-SLTC showed no significant bias when compared to PAT reference values. The PAT samples were analyzed from 1987 to 1989 (N=36) and the concentration range was from 120 to 1,300 fibers/mm².

4. Interferences. Fibrous substances, if present, may interfere with asbestos analysis. Some common fibers are:

Fiber glass Perlite veins.

Anhydrite plant fibers gypsum Some synthetic fibers.

Membrane structures Sponge spicules and diatoms.

Microorganisms Wollastonite.

The use of electron microscopy or optical tests such as polarized light, and dispersion staining may be used to differentiate these materials from asbestos when necessary.

5. Sampling.

(a) Equipment.

(i) Sample assembly. Conductive filter holder consisting of a 25-mm diameter, 3-piece cassette having a 50-mm long electrically conductive extension cowl. Backup pad, 25-mm, cellulose. Membrane filter, mixed-cellulose ester (MCE), 25-mm, plain, white, 0.8- to 1.2-m pore size.

Notes: (A) DO NOT RE-USE CASSETTES.

(B) Fully conductive cassettes are required to reduce fiber loss to the sides of the cassette due to electrostatic attraction.

(C) Purchase filters which have been selected by the manufacturer for asbestos counting or analyze representative filters for fiber background before use. Discard the filter lot if more than 4 fibers/100 fields are found.

(D) To decrease the possibility of contamination, the sampling system (filter-backup pad-cassette) for asbestos is usually preassembled by the manufacturer.

(ii) Gel bands for sealing cassettes.

(iii) Sampling pump. Each pump must be a battery operated, self-contained unit small enough to be placed on the monitored employee and not interfere with the work being performed. The pump must be capable of sampling at 2.5 liters per minute (L/min) for the required sampling time.

(iv) Flexible tubing, 6-mm bore.

(v) Pump calibration. Stopwatch and bubble tube/burette or electronic meter.

(b) Sampling Procedure.

(i) Seal the point where the base and cowl of each cassette meet with a gel band or tape.

(ii) Charge the pumps completely before beginning.

(iii) Connect each pump to a calibration cassette with an appropriate length of 6-mm bore plastic tubing. Do not use luer connectors--the type of cassette specified above has built-in adapters.

(iv) Select an appropriate flow rate for the situation being monitored. The sampling flow rate must be between 0.5 and 5.0 L/min for personal sampling and is commonly set between 1 and 2 L/min. Always choose a flow rate that will not produce overloaded filters.

(v) Calibrate each sampling pump before and after sampling with a calibration cassette in-line (Note: This calibration cassette should be from the same lot of cassettes used for sampling). Use a primary standard (e.g. bubble burette) to calibrate each pump. If possible, calibrate at the sampling site.

Note: If sampling site calibration is not possible, environmental influences may affect the flow rate. The extent is dependent on the type of pump used. Consult with the pump manufacturer to determine dependence on environmental influences. If the pump is affected by temperature and pressure changes, use the formula in Appendix B to this section to calculate the actual flow rate.

(vi) Connect each pump to the base of each sampling cassette with flexible tubing. Remove the end cap of each cassette and take each air sample open face. Assure that each sample cassette is held open side down in the employee's breathing zone during sampling. The distance from the nose/mouth of the employee to the cassette should be about 10 cm. Secure the cassette on the collar or lapel of the employee using spring clips or other similar devices.

(vii) A suggested minimum air volume when sampling to determine TWA compliance is 25 L. For Excursion Limit (30 min sampling time) evaluations, a minimum air volume of 48 L is recommended.

(viii) The most significant problem when sampling for asbestos is overloading the filter with non-asbestos dust. Suggested maximum air sample volumes for specific environments are:

(WAC 296-62-07737, Illus. 1)

Caution: Do not overload the filter with dust. High levels of non-fibrous dust particles may obscure fibers on the filter and lower the count or make counting impossible. If more than about 25 to 30% of the field area is obscured with dust, the result may be biased low. Smaller air volumes may be necessary when there is excessive non-asbestos dust in the air. While sampling, observe the filter with a small flashlight. If there is a visible layer of dust on the filter, stop sampling, remove and seal the cassette, and replace with a new sampling assembly. The total dust loading should not exceed 1 mg.

(ix) Blank samples are used to determine if any contamination has occurred during sample handling. Prepare two blanks for the first 1 to 20 samples. For sets containing greater than 20 samples, prepare blanks as 10% of the samples. Handle blank samples in the same manner as air samples with one exception: Do not draw any air through the blank samples. Open the blank cassette in the place where the sample cassettes are mounted on the employee. Hold it open for about 30 seconds. Close and seal the cassette appropriately. Store blanks for shipment with the sample cassettes.

(x) Immediately after sampling, close and seal each cassette with the base and plastic plugs. Do not touch or puncture the filter membrane as this will invalidate the analysis.

(xi) Attach a seal (OSHA-21 or equivalent) around each cassette in such a way as to secure the end cap plug and base plug. Tape the ends of the seal together since the seal is not long enough to be wrapped end-to-end. Also wrap tape around the cassette at each joint to keep the seal secure.

(i) Send the samples to the laboratory with paperwork requesting asbestos analysis. List any known fibrous interferences present during sampling on the paperwork. Also, note the workplace operation(s) sampled.

(ii) Secure and handle the samples in such that they will not rattle during shipment nor be exposed to static electricity. Do not ship samples in expanded polystyrene peanuts, vermiculite, paper shreds, or excelsior. Tape sample cassettes to sheet bubbles and place in a container that will cushion the samples without rattling.

(iii) To avoid the possibility of sample contamination, always ship bulk samples in separate mailing containers.

6. Analysis.

(a) Safety Precautions.

(i) Acetone is extremely flammable and precautions must be taken not to ignite it. Avoid using large containers or quantities of acetone. Transfer the solvent in a ventilated laboratory hood. Do not use acetone near any open flame. For generation of acetone vapor, use a spark free heat source.

(ii) Any asbestos spills should be cleaned up immediately to prevent dispersal of fibers. Prudence should be exercised to avoid contamination of laboratory facilities or exposure of personnel to asbestos. Asbestos spills should be cleaned up with wet methods and/or a High Efficiency Particulate-Air (HEPA) filtered vacuum.

Caution: Do not use a vacuum without a HEPA filter--It will disperse fine asbestos fibers in the air.

(b) Equipment.

(i) Phase contrast microscope with binocular or trinocular head.

(ii) Widefield or Huygenian 10X eyepieces (NOTE: The eyepiece containing the graticule must be a focusing eyepiece. Use a 40X phase objective with a numerical aperture of 0.65 to 0.75).

(iii) Kohler illumination (if possible) with green or blue filter.

(iv) Walton-Beckett Graticule, type G-22 with 100 2 m projected diameter.

(v) Mechanical stage. A rotating mechanical stage is convenient for use with polarized light.

(vi) Phase telescope.

(vii) Stage micrometer with 0.01-mm subdivisions.

(viii) Phase-shift test slide, mark II (Available from PTR optics Ltd., and also McCrone).

(ix) Precleaned glass slides, 25 mm X 75 mm. One end can be frosted for convenience in writing sample numbers, etc., or paste-on labels can be used.

(x) Cover glass #1-1/2.

(xi) Scalpel (#10, curved blade).

(xii) Fine tipped forceps.

(xiii) Aluminum block for clearing filter.

(xiv) Automatic adjustable pipette, 100- to 500-L.

(xv) Micropipette, 5 L.

(i) Acetone (HPLC grade).

(ii) Triacetin (glycerol triacetate).

(iii) Lacquer or nail polish.

(d) Standard Preparation. A way to prepare standard asbestos samples of known concentration has not been developed. It is possible to prepare replicate samples of nearly equal concentration. This has been performed through the PAT program. These asbestos samples are distributed by the AIHA to participating laboratories. Since only about one-fourth of a 25-mm sample membrane is required for an asbestos count, any PAT sample can serve as a "standard" for replicate counting.

(e) Sample Mounting.

Note: See Safety Precautions in (6)(a) before proceeding. The objective is to produce samples with a smooth (non-grainy) background in a medium with a refractive index of approximately 1.46. The technique below collapses the filter for easier focusing and produces permanent mounts which are useful for quality control and interlaboratory comparison. An aluminum block or similar device is required for sample preparation.

(i) Heat the aluminum block to about 70C. The hot block should not be used on any surface that can be damaged by either the heat or from exposure to acetone.

(ii) Ensure that the glass slides and cover glasses are free of dust and fibers.

(iii) Remove the top plug to prevent a vacuum when the cassette is opened. Clean the outside of the cassette if necessary. Cut the seal and/or tape on the cassette with a razor blade. Very carefully separate the base from the extension cowl, leaving the filter and backup pad in the base.

(iv) With a rocking motion cut a triangular wedge from the filter using the scalpel. This wedge should be one-sixth to one-fourth of the filter. Grasp the filter wedge with the forceps on the perimeter of the filter which was clamped between the cassette pieces. do not touch the filter with your finger. Place the filter on the glass slide sample side up. Static electricity will usually keep the filter on the slide until it is cleared.

(v) Place the tip of the micropipette containing about 200 L acetone into the aluminum block. Insert the glass slide into the receiving slot in the aluminum block. Inject the acetone into the block with slow, steady pressure on the plunger while holding the pipette firmly in place. Wait 3 to 5 seconds for the filter to clear, then remove the pipette and slide from the aluminum block.

(vi) Immediately (less than 30 seconds) place 2.5 to 3.5 L of triacetin on the filter (Note: Waiting longer than 30 seconds will result in increased index of refraction and decreased contrast between the fibers and the preparation. This may also lead to separation of the cover slip from the slide).

(vii) Lower a cover slip gently onto the filter at a slight angle to reduce the possibility of forming air bubbles. If more than 30 seconds have elapsed between acetone exposure and triacetin application, glue the edges of the cover slip to the slide with lacquer or nail polish.

(viii) If clearing is slow, warm the slide for 15 min on a hot plate having a surface temperature of about 50C to hasten clearing. The top of the hot block can be used if the slide is not heated too long.

(ix) Counting may proceed immediately after clearing and mounting are completed.

(f) Sample Analysis. Completely align the microscope according to the manufacturer's instructions. Then, align the microscope using the following general alignment routine at the beginning of every counting session and more often if necessary.

(i) Alignment.

(A) Clean all optical surfaces. Even a small amount of dirt can significantly degrade the image.

(B) Rough focus the objective on a sample.

(C) Close down the field iris so that it is visible in the field of view. Focus the image of the iris with the condenser focus. Center the image of the iris in the field of view.

(D) Install the phase telescope and focus on the phase rings. Critically center the rings. Misalignment of the rings results in astigmatism which will degrade the image.

(E) Place the phase-shift test slide on the microscope stage and focus on the lines. The analyst must see line set 3 and should see at least parts of 4 and 5 but, not see line set 6 or 6. A microscope/microscopist combination which does not pass this test may not be used.

(ii) Counting Fibers.

(A) Place the prepared sample slide on the mechanical stage of the microscope. Position the center of the wedge under the objective lens and focus upon the sample.

(B) Start counting from one end of the wedge and progress along a radial line to the other end (count in either direction from perimeter to wedge tip). Select fields randomly, without looking into the eyepieces, by slightly advancing the slide in one direction with the mechanical stage control.

(C) Continually scan over a range of focal planes (generally the upper 10 to 15 m of the filter surface) with the fine focus control during each field count. Spend at least 5 to 15 seconds per field.

(D) Most samples will contain asbestos fibers with fiber diameters less than 1 . Look carefully for faint fiber images. The small diameter fibers will be very hard to see. However, they are an important contribution to the total count.

(E) Count only fibers equal to or longer than 5 . Measure the length of curved fibers along the curve.

(F) Count fibers which have a length to width ratio of 3:1 or greater.

(G) Count all the fibers in at least 20 fields. Continue counting until either 100 fibers are counted or 100 fields have been viewed; whichever occurs first. Count all the fibers in the final field.

(H) Fibers lying entirely within the boundary of the Walton-Beckett graticule field shall receive a count of 1. Fibers crossing the boundary once, having one end within the circle shall receive a count of 1/2. Do not count any fiber that crosses the graticule boundary more than once. Reject and do not count any other fibers even though they may be visible outside the graticule area. If a fiber touches the circle, it is considered to cross the line.

(I) Count bundles of fibers as one fiber unless individual fibers can be clearly identified and each individual fiber is clearly not connected to another counted fiber.

(J) Record the number of fibers in each field in a consistent way such that filter non-uniformity can be assessed.

(K) Regularly check phase ring alignment.

(L) When an agglomerate (mass of material) covers more than 25% of the field of view, reject the field and select another. Do not include it in the number of fields counted.

(M) Perform a "blind recount" of 1 in every 10 filter wedges (slides). Re-label the slides using a person other than the original counter.

(g) Fiber Identification. As previously mentioned in (1)(c), PCM does not provide positive confirmation of asbestos fibers. Alternate differential counting techniques should be used if discrimination is desirable. Differential counting may include primary discrimination based on morphology, polarized light analysis of fibers, or modification of PCM data by Scanning Electron or Transmission Electron Microscopy. A great deal of experience is required to routinely and correctly perform differential counting. It is discouraged unless it is legally necessary. Then, only if a fiber is obviously not asbestos should it be excluded from the count. Further discussion of this technique can be found in reference 8(j). If there is a question whether a fiber is asbestos or not, follow the rule: "when in doubt, count."

(h) Analytical Recommendations--Quality Control System.

(i) All individuals performing asbestos analysis must have taken the NIOSH course for sampling and evaluating airborne asbestos or an equivalent course.

(ii) Each laboratory engaged in asbestos counting shall set up a slide trading arrangement with at least two other laboratories in order to compare performance and eliminate inbreeding of error. The slide exchange occurs at least semiannually. The round robin results shall be posted where all analysts can view individual analyst's results.

(iii) Each laboratory engaged in asbestos counting shall participate in the Proficiency Analytical Testing Program, the Asbestos Analyst Registry or equivalent.

(iv) Each analyst shall select and count prepared slides from a "slide bank". These are quality assurance counts. The slide bank shall be prepared using uniformly distributed samples taken from the workload. Fiber densities should cover the entire range routinely analyzed by the laboratory. These slides are counted blind by all counters to establish an original standard deviation. This historical distribution is compared with the quality assurance counts. A counter must have 95% of all quality control samples counted within three standard deviations of the historical mean. This count is then integrated into a new historical mean and standard deviation for the slide. The analyses done by the counters to establish the slide bank may be used for an interim quality control program if the data are treated in a proper statistical fashion.

7. Calculations.

(a) Calculate the estimated airborne asbestos fiber concentration on the filter sample using the following formula:

(WAC 296-62-07737, Illus. 2)

Where:

AC = Airborne fiber concentration

FB = Total number of fibers greater than 5 m counted

FL = Total number of fields counted on the filter

BFB = Total number of fibers greater than 5m counted in the blank

BFL = Total number of fields counted on the blank

ECA = Effective collecting area of filter (385 mm² nominal for a 25-mm filter.)

FR = Pump flow rate (L/min)

MFA = Microscope count field area (mm²). This is 0.00785 mm² for a Walton-Beckett Graticule.

T = Sample collection time (min)

1,000 = Conversion of L to cc

Note: The collection area of a filter is seldom equal to 385 mm². It is appropriate for laboratories to routinely monitor the exact diameter using an inside micrometer. The collection area is calculated according to the formula:

Area = (d/2)²

(b) Short-cut Calculation

Since a given analyst always has the same interpupillary distance, the number of fields per filter for a particular analyst will remain constant for a given size filter. The field size for that analyst is constant (i.e. the analyst is using an assigned microscope and is not changing the reticle). For example, if the exposed area of the filter is always 385 mm² and the size of the field is always 0.00785 mm², the number of fields per filter will always be 49,000. In addition it is necessary to convert liters of air to cc. These three constants can then be combined such that ECA/(1,000 X MFA) = 49. The previous equation simplifies to:

(WAC 296-62-07737, Illus. 3)

(c) Recount Calculations. As mentioned in step 13 of 6 (f)(ii), a "blind recount" of 10% of the slides is performed. In all cases, differences will be observed between the first and second counts of the same filter wedge. Most of these differences will be due to chance alone, that is, due to the random variability (precision) of the count method. Statistical recount criteria enables one to decide whether observed differences can be explained due to chance alone or are probably due to systematic differences between analysts, microscopes, or other biasing factors. The following recount criterion is for a pair of counts that estimate AC in fibers/cc. The criterion is given at the type-I error level. That is, there is 5% maximum risk that we will reject a pair of counts for the reason that one might be biased, when the large observed difference is really due to chance. Reject a pair of counts if:

(WAC 296-62-07737, Illus. 4)

Where:

AC₁ = lower estimated airborne fiber concentration

AC₂ = higher estimated airborne fiber concentration

AC_avg = average of the two concentration estimates

CV_FB = CV for the average of the two concentration estimates

If a pair of counts are rejected by this criterion then, recount the rest of the filters in the submitted set. Apply the test and reject any other pairs failing the test. Rejection shall include a memo to the industrial hygienist stating that the sample failed a statistical test for homogeneity and the true air concentration may be significantly different than the reported value.

(d) Reporting Results. Report results to the industrial hygienist as fibers/cc. Use two significant figures. If multiple analyses are performed on a sample, an average of the results is to be reported unless any of the results can be rejected for cause.

8. References.

(a) Dreesen, W.C., et al, U.S. Public Health Service: A Study of Asbestosis in the Asbestos Textile Industry, (Public Health Bulletin No. 241), US Treasury Dept., Washington, DC, 1938. (b) Asbestos Research Council: The Measurement of Airborne Asbestos Dust by the Membrane Filter Method (Technical Note), Asbestos Research Council, Rockdale, Lancashire, Great Britain, 1969.

(c) Bayer, S.G., Zumwalde, R.D., Brown, T.A., Equipment and Procedure for Mounting Millipore Filters and Counting Asbestos Fibers by Phase Contrast Microscopy, Bureau of Occupational Health, U.S. Dept. of Health, Education and Welfare, Cincinnati,OH,1969.

(d) NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods, 2nd ed., Vol. 1 (DHEW/NIOSH Pub. No. 77-157-A). National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH, 1977.pp.239-1-239-21.

(e) Asbestos, Code of Federal Regulations 29 CFR 1910.1001. 1971.

(f) Occupational Exposure to Asbestos, Tremolite, Anthophyllite, and Actinolite. Final Rule, Federal Register 51: 119 (20 June 1986). pp.22612-22790.

(g) Asbestos, Tremolite, Anthophyllite, and Actinolite, Code of Federal Regulations 1910.1001. 1988. pp 711-752.

(h) Criteria for a Recommended Standard--Occupational Exposure to Asbestos (DHEW/NIOSH Pub. No. HSM 72-10267), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health NIOSH, Cincinnati, OH, 1972. pp. III-1-III-24.

(i) Leidel, N.A., Bayer, S.G., Zumwalde, R.D., Busch, K.A., USPHS/NIOSH Membrane Filter Method for Evaluating Airborne Asbestos Fibers (DHEW/NIOSH Pub. No. 79-127). National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH, 1979.

(j) Dixon, W.C., Applications of Optical Microscopy in Analysis of Asbestos and Quartz, Analytical Techniques in Occupational Health Chemistry, edited by D.D. Dollberg and A.W. Verstuyft. Wash. D.C.: American Chemical Society, (ACS Symposium Series 120) 1980. pp. 13-41.

9. Quality Control. The OSHA asbestos regulations require each laboratory to establish a quality control program. The following is presented as an example of how the OSHA-SLTC constructed its internal CV curve as part of meeting this requirement. Data for the CV curve shown below is from 395 samples collected during OSHA compliance inspections and analyzed from October 1980 through April 1986. Each sample was counted by 2 to 5 different counters independently of one another. The standard deviation and the CV statistic was calculated for each sample. This data was then plotted on a graph of CV vs. fibers/mm². A least squares regression was performed using the following equation:

CV=antilog₁₀[A(log₁₀(x))²+B(log₁₀(x))+C]

Where:

x = the number of fibers/mm²

Application of least squares gave:

A=0.182205

B=-0.973343

C=0.327499

Using these values, the equation becomes:

CV = antilog₁₀[0.182205(log₁₀ (x))²- 0.973343(log ₁₀(x)) + 0.327499].

10. Sampling Pump Flow Rate Corrections. This correction is used if a difference greater than 5% in ambient temperature and/or pressure is noted between calibration and sampling sites and the pump does not compensate for the differences.

(WAC 296-62-07737, Illus. 5)

Where:

Q_act = actual flow rate

Q_cal = calibrated flow rate (if a rotameter was used, the rotameter value)

P_cal = uncorrected air pressure at calibration

P_act = uncorrected air pressure at sampling site

T_act = temperature at sampling site (K)

T_cal = temperature at calibration (K)

11. Walton-Beckett Graticule

When ordering the Graticule for asbestos counting, specify the exact disc diameter needed to fit the ocular of the microscope and the diameter (mm) of the circular counting area. Instructions for measuring the dimensions necessary are listed:

(a) Insert any available graticule into the focusing eyepiece and focus so that the graticule lines are sharp and clear.

(b) Align the microscope.

(d) Measure the magnified grid length, PL (m), using the stage micrometer.

(e) Remove the graticule from the microscope and measure its actual grid length, AL (mm). This can be accomplished by using a mechanical stage fitted with verniers, or a jeweler's loupe with a direct reading scale.

(f) Let D=100 m. Calculate the circle diameter, d_c (mm), for the Walton-Beckett graticule and specify the diameter when making a purchase:

(WAC 296-62-07737, Illus. 6)

Example: If PL=108 m, AL=2.93 mm and D=100 m, then,

d_c = (2.93 x 100)/108 = 2.71 mm

(g) Each eyepiece-objective-reticle combination on the microscope must be calibrated. Should any of the three be changed (by zoom adjustment, disassembly, replacement, etc.), the combination must be recalibrated. Calibration may change if interpupillary distance is changed. Measure the field diameter, D (acceptable range: 100 2 m) with a stage micrometer upon receipt of the graticule from the manufacturer. Determine the field area (mm²).

Field Area=(D/2)²

If D=100 m=0.1 mm, then

Field Area=+(0.1 mm/2)²=0.00785 mm²

The Graticule is available from: Graticules Ltd., Morley Road, Tonbridge TN9 IRN, Kent, England (Telephone 011-44-732-359061). Also available from PTR Optics Ltd., 145 Newton Street, Waltham, MA 02154 [telephone (617) 891-6000] or McCrone Accessories and Components, 2506 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60616 [phone (312) 842-7100]. The graticule is custom made for each microscope.

BILLING CODE 4510-26-P

[Open Style:Columns Off]

(WAC 296-62-07737, Figure 1)

[Open Style:Columns On]

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07737, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07737, filed 4/27/87.]

Reviser's note: The brackets and enclosed material in the text of the above section occurred in the copy filed by the agency and appear in the Register pursuant to the requirements of RCW 34.08.040.

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 87-24, filed 11/30/87)

WAC 296-62-07741 Appendix D--Medical questionnaires--Mandatory. This mandatory appendix contains the medical questionnaires that must be administered to all employees who are exposed to asbestos ((~~above the action level~~)), tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite, or a combination of these minerals above the permissible exposure limit (0.1 f/cc), and who will therefore be included in their employer's medical surveillance program. Part 1 of the appendix contains the initial medical questionnaire, which must be obtained for all new hires who will be covered by the medical surveillance requirements. Part 2 includes the abbreviated periodical medical questionnaire, which must be administered to all employees who are provided periodic medical examinations under the medical surveillance provisions of the standard.

Part 1

initial medical questionnaire

1. name

2. social security # . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

3. clock number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10 11 12 13 14 15

4. present occupation

5. plant

6. address

(Zip Code)

8. telephone number

9. interviewer

10. date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

16 17 18 19 20 21

11. Date of birth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Month Day Year 22 23 24 25 26 27

12. Place of birth

13. Sex 1. Male . . .

2. Female . . .

14. What is your marital status? 1. Single . . . 4. Separated/

2. Married . . . Divorced . . .

3. Widowed . . .

15. Race 1. White . . . 4. Hispanic . . .

2. Black . . . 5. Indian . . .

3. Asian . . . 6. Other . . .

16. What is the highest grade completed in school?

(For example 12 years is completion of high school)

occupational history

17A. Have you ever worked full time 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

(30 hours per week or more)

for 6 months or more?

if yes to 17A:

B. Have you ever worked for a year 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

or more in any dusty job? 3. Does not apply . . .

Specify job/industry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Total years worked . . .

Was dust exposure: 1. Mild . . . 2. Moderate . . . 3. Severe . . .

C. Have you ever been exposed to 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

gas or chemical fumes in your work?

Specify job/industry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Total years worked . . .

Was exposure: 1. Mild . . . 2. Moderate . . . 3. Severe . . .

D. What has been your usual occupation or job--the one you

have worked at the longest?

1. Job occupation

2. Number of years employed in this occupation

3. Position/job title

4. Business, field or industry

(Record on lines the years in which you have worked in any of these industries, e.g., 1960-1969.)

Have you ever worked:

yes no

E. In a mine?

F. In a quarry?

G.In a foundry?

H. In a pottery?

I. In a cotton, flax or hemp mill?

J. With asbestos?

18. past medical history

yes no

A. Do you consider yourself to be

in good health?

If "no" state reason

B. Have you any defect in vision?

If "yes" state nature of defect

C. Have you any hearing defect?

If "yes" state nature of defect

D. Are you suffering from or have you ever suffered from:

a. Epilepsy (or fits, seizures,

convulsions)?

b. Rheumatic fever?

c. Kidney disease?

d. Bladder disease?

e. Diabetes?

f. Jaundice

19. chest colds and chest illnesses

19A. If you get a cold, does it usually

go to your chest? (Usually means 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

more than 1/2 the time.) 3. Don't get colds . . .

20A. During the past 3 years, have you had 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

any chest illnesses that have kept you

off work, indoors at home, or in bed?

if yes to 20A:

B. Did you produce phlegm with any of 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

these chest illnesses? 3. Does not apply . . .

C. In the last 3 years, how many such Number of illnesses . . .

illnesses with (increased) phlegm did No such illnesses . . .

you have which lasted a week or more?

21. Did you have any lung trouble before 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

the age of 16?

22. Have you ever had any of the following?

1A. Attacks of bronchitis? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

if yes to 1A:

B. Was it confirmed by a doctor? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

3. Does not apply . . .

C. At what age was your first attack? Age in years . . .

Does not apply . . .

2A. Pneumonia? (include broncho-

pneumonia) 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

if yes to 2A:

B. Was it confirmed by a doctor? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

3. Does not apply . . .

C. At what age did you first have it? Age in years . . .

Does not apply . . .

3A. Hay fever? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

if yes to 3A:

B. Was it confirmed by a doctor? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

3. Does not apply . . .

C. At what age did it start? Age in years . . .

Does not apply . . .

23A. Have you ever had chronic bronchitis? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

if yes to 23A:

B. Do you still have it? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

3. Does not apply . . .

C. Was it confirmed by a doctor? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

3. Does not apply . . .

D. At what age did it start? Age in years . . .

Does not apply . . .

24A. Have you ever had emphysema? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

if yes to 24A:

B. Do you still have it? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

3. Does not apply . . .

C. Was it confirmed by a doctor? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

3. Does not apply . . .

D. At what age did it start? Age in years . . .

Does not apply . . .

25A. Have you ever had asthma? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

if yes to 25A:

B. Do you still have it? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

3. Does not apply . . .

C. Was it confirmed by a doctor? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

3. Does not apply . . .

D. At what age did it start? Age in years . . .

Does not apply . . .

E. If you no longer have it, at Age stopped . . .

what age did it stop? Does not apply . . .

26. Have you ever had:

A. Any other chest illness? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

If yes, please specify

B. Any chest operations? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

If yes, please specify

C. Any chest injuries? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

If yes, please specify

27A. Has a doctor ever told you that you 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

had heart trouble?

if yes to 27A:

B. Have you ever had treatment for heart 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

trouble in the past 10 years? 3. Does not apply . . .

28A. Has a doctor ever told you that you 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

had high blood pressure?

if yes to 28A:

B. Have you had any treatment for high 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

blood pressure (hypertension) in the 3. Does not apply . . .

past 10 years?

29. When did you last have your chest

x-rayed? (Year) . . . . . . . . . . . .

25 26 27 28

30. Where did you last have your chest x-rayed (if known)?

What was the outcome?

family history

31. Were either of your natural parents ever told by a doctor

that they had a chronic lung condition such as:

father mother

1. Yes 2. No 3. Don't 1. Yes 2. No 3. Don't

Know Know

A. Chronic

Bronchitis? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

B. Emphysema? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

C. Asthma? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

D. Lung cancer? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

E. Other chest

conditions? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F. Is parent

currently alive? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

G. Please specify . . . Age if living . . . Age if living

. . . Age at death . . . Age at death

. . . Don't know . . . Don't know

H. Please specify cause of death

cough

32A. Do you usually have a cough? (Count 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

a cough with first smoke or on first

going out of doors. Exclude clearing

of throat.) (If no, skip to question

32C.)

B. Do you usually cough as much as 4 to 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

6 times a day 4 or more days out of

the week?

C. Do you usually cough at all on getting 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

up or first thing in the morning?

D. Do you usually cough at all during the 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

rest of the day or at night?

if yes to any of above (32A, B, C, or D), answer the following. if no to all, check does not apply and skip to next page

E. Do you usually cough like this on most 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

days for 3 consecutive months or more 3. Does not apply . . .

during the year?

F. For how many years have you had Number of years . . .

the cough? Does not apply . . .

33A. Do you usually bring up phlegm from 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

your chest? (Count phlegm with

the first smoke or on first going

out of doors. Exclude phlegm from

the nose. Count swallowed phlegm.)

(If no, skip to 33C.)

B. Do you usually bring up phlegm like 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

this as much as twice a day 4 or

more days out of the week?

C. Do you usually bring up phlegm at 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

all on getting up or first thing in

the morning?

D. Do you usually bring up phlegm at all 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

during the rest of the day or at night?

if yes to any of the above (33A, B, C, or D), answer the following: if no to all, check does not apply and skip to 34A.

E. Do you bring up phlegm like this on 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

most days for 3 consecutive months 3. Does not apply . . .

or more during the year?

F. For how many years have you had Number of years . . .

trouble with phlegm? Does not apply . . .

episodes of cough and phlegm

34A. Have you had periods or episodes of 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

(increased*) cough and phlegm lasting

for 3 weeks or more each year?

*(For persons who usually have cough

and/or phlegm.)

if yes to 34A:

B. For how long have you had at least Number of years . . .

1 such episode per year? Does not apply . . .

wheezing

35A. Does your chest ever sound wheezy or

whistling:

1. When you have a cold? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

2. Occasionally apart from colds? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

3. Most days or nights? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

if yes to 1, 2, or 3 in 35A:

B. For how many years has this been Number of years . . .

present? Does not apply . . .

36A. Have you ever had an attack of 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

wheezing that has made you feel

short of breath?

if yes to 36A:

B. How old were you when you had your Age in years . . .

first such attack? Does not apply . . .

C. Have you had 2 or more such episodes? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

3. Does not apply . . .

D. Have you ever required medicine or 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

treatment for the(se) attack(s)? 3. Does not apply . . .

breathlessness

37. If disabled from walking by any condition

other than heart or lung disease, please

describe and proceed to question 39A.

Nature of condition(s)

38A. Are you troubled by shortness of breath 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

when hurrying on the level or walking

up a slight hill?

if yes to 38A:

B. Do you have to walk slower than 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

people of your age on the level 3. Does not apply . . .

because of breathlessness?

C. Do you ever have to stop for breath when 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

walking at your own pace on the level? 3. Does not apply . . .

D. Do you ever have to stop for breath 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

after walking about 100 yards (or 3. Does not apply . . .

after a few minutes) on the level?

E. Are you too breathless to leave the 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

house or breathless on dressing or 3. Does not apply

climbing one flight of stairs?

tobacco smoking

39A. Have you ever smoked cigarettes? (No 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

means less than 20 packs of cigarettes or

12 oz. of tobacco in a lifetime or less

than 1 cigarette a day for 1 year.)

if yes to 39A:

B. Do you now smoke cigarettes (as of 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

one month ago)? 3. Does not apply . . .

C. How old were you when you first Age in years . . .

started regular cigarette smoking? Does not apply . . .

D. If you have stopped smoking cigarettes Aged stopped . . .

completely, how old were you when you Check if still

stopped? smoking . . .

Does not apply . . .

E. How many cigarettes do you smoke per Cigarettes per day . . .

day now? Does not apply . . .

F. On the average of the entire time you Cigarettes per day . . .

smoked, how many cigarettes did you Does not apply . . .

smoke per day?

G. Do you or did you inhale the 1. Does not apply . . .

cigarette smoke? 2. Not at all . . .

3. Slightly . . .

4. Moderately . . .

5. Deeply . . .

40A. Have you ever smoked a pipe regularly? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

(Yes means more than 12 ounces of

tobacco in a lifetime.)

if yes to 40A:

for persons who have ever smoked a pipe

B. 1. How old were you when you started

to smoke a pipe regularly? Age

2. If you have stopped smoking a pipe Age stopped

completely, how old were you when Check if still

you stopped? smoking pipe

Does not apply

C. On the average over the entire time . . . oz. per week

you smoked a pipe, how much pipe (a standard pouch

tobacco did you smoke per week? of tobacco contains

1-1/2 ounces)

. . . Does not apply

D. How much pipe tobacco are you oz. per week

smoking now? Not currently

smoking a pipe

E. Do you or did you inhale the 1. Never smoked

pipe smoke? 2. Not at all

3. Slightly

4. Moderately

5. Deeply

41A. Have you ever smoked cigars regularly? 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

(Yes means more than 1 cigar a week

for a year.)

if yes to 41A:

for persons who have ever smoked cigars

B. 1. How old were you when you started Age

smoking cigars regularly?

2. If you have stopped smoking cigars Age stopped

completely, how old were you when Check if still

you stopped? smoking cigars

Does not apply

C. On the average over the entire time you Cigars per week

smoked cigars, how many cigars did you Does not apply

smoke per week?

D. How many cigars are you Cigars per week

smoking per week now? Check if not

smoking cigars

currently

E. Do you or did you inhale 1. Never smoked

the cigar smoke? 2. Not at all

3. Slightly

4. Moderately

5. Deeply

Signature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Date

Part 2

periodic medical questionnaire

1. name

2. social security # . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

3. clock number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10 11 12 13 14 15

4. present occupation

5. plant

6. address

(Zip Code)

8. telephone number

9. interviewer

10. date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

16 17 18 19 20 21

11. What is your marital status? 1. Single . . . 4. Separated/

2. Married . . . Divorced . . .

3. Widowed . . .

12. occupational history

12A. In the past year, did you 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

work full time (30 hours per

week or more) for 6 months

or more?

if yes to 12A:

12B. In the past year, did you 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

work in a dusty job? 3. Does not apply . . .

12C. Was dust exposure: 1. Mild . . . 2. Moderate . . . 3. Severe . . .

12D. In the past year, were you 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

exposed to gas or chemical

fumes in your work?

12E. Was exposure: 1. Mild . . . 2. Moderate . . . 3. Severe . . .

12F. In the past year,

what was your: 1. Job/occupation?

2. Position/job title?

13. recent medical history

13A. Do you consider yourself to

be in good health? Yes . . . No . . .

If no, state reason

13B. In the past year, have you Yes No

developed: Epilepsy? . . . . . .

Rheumatic fever? . . . . . .

Kidney disease? . . . . . .

Bladder disease? . . . . . .

Diabetes? . . . . . .

Jaundice? . . . . . .

Cancer? . . . . . .

14. chest colds and chest illness

14A. If you get a cold, does it usually

go to your chest? (Usually means 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

more than 1/2 the time.) 3. Don't get colds . . .

15A. During the past year, have you had

any chest illnesses that have 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

kept you off work, indoors at home, 3. Does not apply . . .

or in bed?

if yes to 15a:

15B. Did you produce phlegm with any 1. Yes . . . 2. No . . .

of these chest illnesses? 3. Does not apply . . .

15C. In the past year, how many such Number of illnesses . . .

illnesses with (increased) phlegm No such illnesses . . .

did you have which lasted a week

or more?

16. respiratory system

In the past year have you had:

Yes or No Further Comment on

Positive Answers

Asthma . . .

Bronchitis . . .

Hay fever . . .

Other allergies . . .

Yes or No Further Comment on

Positive Answers

Pneumonia . . .

Tuberculosis . . .

Chest surgery . . .

Other lung . . .

Problems . . .

Heart disease . . .

Do you have:

Yes or No Further Comment on

Positive Answers

Frequent colds . . .

Chronic cough . . .

Shortness of breath

when walking or

climbing one flight

of stairs . . .

Do you:

Wheeze . . .

Cough up phlegm . . .

Smoke cigarettes . . . Packs per day . . . How many years . . .

Date . . . . . . . . . . . . . Signature

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07741, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07741, filed 4/27/87.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 89-03, filed 5/15/89, effective 6/30/89)

WAC 296-62-07745 Appendix F--Work practices and engineering controls for automotive brake ((~~repair operations--Nonmandatory~~)) and clutch inspection, disassembly, repair and assembly--Mandatory. ((This appendix is intended as guidance for employers in the automotive brake and clutch repair industry who wish to reduce their employees' asbestos exposures during repair operations to levels below the new standard's action level (0.1 f/cc). WISHA believes that employers in this industry sector are likely to be able to reduce their employees' exposures to asbestos by employing the engineering and work practice controls described in subsections (1) and (2) of this section. Those employers who choose to use these controls and who achieve exposures below the action level will thus be able to avoid any burden that might be imposed by complying with such requirements as medical surveillance, recordkeeping, training, respiratory protection, and regulated areas, which are triggered when employee exposures exceed the action level or permissible exposure limits.

Asbestos exposure in the automotive brake and clutch repair industry occurs primarily during the replacement of clutch plates and brake pads, shoes, and linings. Asbestos fibers may become airborne when an automotive mechanic removes the asbestos-containing residue that has been deposited as brakes and clutches wear. Employee exposures to asbestos occur during the cleaning of the brake drum or clutch housing.

WISHA believes that employers engaged in brake repair operations who implement any of the work practices and engineering controls described in subsections (1) and (2) of this section may be able to reduce their employees' exposures to levels below the action level (0.1 fiber/cc). These control methods and the relevant record evidence on these and other methods are described in the following sections.

~~(1) Enclosed cylinder/HEPA vacuum system method.~~

The enclosed cylinder-vacuum system used in one of the facilities visited by representatives of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) during a health hazard evaluation of brake repair facilities consists of three components:

~~(a) A wheel-shaped cylinder designed to cover and enclose the wheel assembly;~~

~~(b) A compressed-air hose and nozzle that fits into a port in the cylinder; and~~

~~(c) A HEPA-filtered vacuum used to evacuate airborne dust generated within the cylinder by the compressed air.~~

To operate the system, the brake assembly is enclosed in a cylinder that has viewing ports to provide visibility and cotton sleeves through which the mechanic can handle the brake assembly parts. The cylinder effectively isolates asbestos dust in the drum from the mechanic's breathing zone. One company manufactures the brake assembly isolation cylinder. The cylinder is equipped with built-in compressed-air guns and a connection for a vacuum cleaner equipped with a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. This type of filter is capable of removing all particles greater than 0.3 microns from the air. When the vacuum cleaner's filter is full, it must be replaced according to the manufacturer's instruction, and appropriate HEPA-filtered dual cartridge respirators should be worn during the process. The filter of the vacuum cleaner is assumed to be contaminated with asbestos fibers and should be handled carefully, wetted with a fine mist of water, placed immediately in a labelled plastic bag, and disposed of properly. When the cylinder is in place around the brake assembly and the HEPA vacuum is connected, compressed air is blown into the cylinder to loosen the residue from the brake assembly parts. The vacuum then evacuates the loosened material from within the cylinder, capturing the airborne material on the HEPA filter.

The HEPA vacuum system can be disconnected from the brake assembly isolation cylinder when the cylinder is not being used. The HEPA vacuum can then be used for clutch facing work, grinding, or other routine cleaning.

~~(2) Compressed air/solvent system method.~~

A compressed-air hose fitted at the end with a bottle of solvent can be used to loosen the asbestos-containing residue and to capture the resulting airborne particles in the solvent mist. The mechanic should begin spraying the asbestos-contaminated parts with the solvent at a sufficient distance to ensure that the asbestos particles are not dislodged by the velocity of the solvent spray. After the asbestos particles are thoroughly wetted, the spray may be brought closer to the parts and the parts may be sprayed as necessary to remove grease and other material. The automotive parts sprayed with the mist are then wiped with a rag, which must then be disposed of appropriately. Rags should be placed in a labelled plastic bag or other container while they are still wet. This ensures that the asbestos fibers will not become airborne after the brake and clutch parts have been cleaned. (If cleanup rags are laundered rather than disposed of, they must be washed using methods appropriate for the laundering of asbestos-contaminated materials.)

WISHA believes that a variant of this compressed-air/solvent mist process offers advantages over the compressed-air/solvent mist technique discussed above, both in terms of costs and employee protection. The variant involves the use of spray cans filled with any of several solvent cleaners commercially available from auto supply stores. Spray cans of solvent are inexpensive, readily available, and easy to use. These cans will also save time, because no solvent delivery system has to be assembled, i.e., no compressed-air hose/mister ensemble. OSHA believes that a spray can will deliver solvent to the parts to be cleaned with considerably less force than the alternative compressed-air delivery system described above, and will thus generate fewer airborne asbestos fibers than the compressed-air method. The agency therefore believes that the exposure levels of automotive repair mechanics using the spray can/solvent mist process will be even lower than the exposures reported by NIOSH for the compressed-air/solvent mist system (0.08 f/cc).

~~(3) Information on the effectiveness of various control measures.~~

~~The amount of airborne asbestos generated during brake and clutch repair operations depends on the work practices and engineering controls used during the repair or removal activity.~~

~~(a) Prohibited methods.~~

The use of compressed air to blow the asbestos-containing residue off the surface of the brake drum removes the residue effectively but simultaneously produces an airborne cloud of asbestos fibers. According to NIOSH, the peak exposures of mechanics using this technique were as high as fifteen fibers/cc, and eight-hour TWA exposures ranged from 0.03 to 0.19 f/cc.

Dr. William J. Nicholson of the Mount Sinai School of Medicine cited data from Knight and Hickish (1970) that indicated that the concentration of asbestos ranged from 0.84 to 5.35 f/cc over a sixty-minute sampling period when compressed air was being used to blow out the asbestos-containing residue from the brake drum. In the same study, a peak concentration of eighty-seven f/cc was measured for a few seconds during brake cleaning performed with compressed air. Rohl et al. (1976) measured area concentrations (of unspecified duration) within three to five feet of operations involving the cleaning of brakes with compressed air and obtained readings ranging from 6.6 to 29.8 f/cc. Because of the high exposure levels that result from cleaning brake and clutch parts using compressed air, WISHA has prohibited this practice in the revised standard.

~~(b) Ineffective methods.~~

When dry brushing was used to remove the asbestos-containing residue from the brake drums and wheel assemblies, peak exposures measured by NIOSH ranged from 0.61 to 0.81 f/cc, while eight-hour TWA levels were at the new standard's permissible exposure limit (PEL) of 0.2 f/cc. Rohl and his colleagues collected area samples one to three feet from a brake cleaning operation being performed with a dry brush, and measured concentrations ranging from 1.3 to 3.6 f/cc; however, sampling times and TWA concentrations were not presented in the Rohl et al. study.

When a brush wetted with water, gasoline, or Stoddart solvent was used to clean the asbestos-containing residue from the affected parts, exposure levels (eight-hour TWAs) measured by NIOSH also exceeded the new 0.2 f/cc PEL, and peak exposures ranged as high as 2.62 f/cc.

~~(c) Preferred methods.~~

Use of an engineering control system involving a cylinder that completely encloses the brake shoe assembly and a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter-equipped vacuum produced eight-hour TWA employee exposures of 0.01 f/cc and peak exposures ranging from nondetectable to 0.07 f/cc. (Because this system achieved exposure levels below the standard's action level, it is described in detail above.) Data collected by the Mount Sinai Medical Center for Nilfisk of America, Inc., the manufacturer of the brake assembly enclosure system, showed that for two of three operations sampled, the exposure of mechanics to airborne asbestos fibers was nondetectable. For the third operator sampled by Mt. Sinai researchers, the exposure was 0.5 f/cc, which the authors attributed to asbestos that had contaminated the operator's clothing in the course of previous brake repair operations performed without the enclosed cylinder/vacuum system.

Some automotive repair facilities use a compressed-air hose to apply a solvent mist to remove the asbestos-containing residue from the brake drums before repair. The NIOSH data indicated that mechanics employing this method experienced exposures (eight-hour TWAs) of 0.8 f/cc, with peaks of 0.25 to 0.68 f/cc. This technique, and a variant of it, that WISHA believes is both less costly and more effective in reducing employee exposures, is described in greater detail in subsections (1) and (2) of this section.

~~(4) Summary.~~

In conclusion, WISHA believes that it is likely that employers in the brake and clutch repair industry will be able to avail themselves of the action level trigger built into the revised standard if they conscientiously employ one of the three control methods described above: The enclosed cylinder/HEPA vacuum system, the compressed air/solvent method, or the spray can/solvent mist system.)) This mandatory appendix specifies engineering controls and work practices that must be implemented by the employer during automotive brake and clutch inspection, disassembly, repair, and assembly operations. Proper use of these engineering controls and work practices will reduce employees' asbestos exposure below the permissible exposure level during clutch and brake inspection, disassembly, repair, and assembly operations. The employer shall institute engineering controls and work practices using either the method set forth in (1) or (2) of this appendix, or any other method which the employer can demonstrate to be equivalent in terms of reducing employee exposure to asbestos as defined and which meets the requirements described in (3) of this appendix, for those facilities in which no more than 5 pairs of brakes or 5 clutches are inspected, disassembled, reassembled and/or repaired per week, the method set forth in (4) of this appendix may be used:

(1) Negative pressure enclosure/HEPA vacuum system method.

(a) The brake and clutch inspection, disassembly, repair, and assembly operations shall be enclosed to cover and contain the clutch or brake assembly and to prevent the release of asbestos fibers into the worker's breathing zone.

(b) The enclosure shall be sealed tightly and thoroughly inspected for leaks before work begins on brake and clutch inspection, disassembly, repair and assembly.

(c) The enclosure shall be such that the worker can clearly see the operation and shall provide impermeable sleeves through which the worker can handle the brake and clutch inspection, disassembly, repair and assembly. The integrity of the sleeves and ports shall be examined before work begins.

(d) A HEPA-filtered vacuum shall be employed to maintain the enclosure under negative pressure throughout the operation. Compressed-air may be used to remove asbestos fibers or particles from the enclosure.

(e) The HEPA vacuum shall be used first to loosen the asbestos containing residue from the brake and clutch parts and then to evacuate the loosened asbestos containing material from the enclosure and capture the material in the vacuum filter.

(f) The vacuum's filter, when full, shall be first wetted with a fine mist of water, then removed and placed immediately in an impermeable container, labeled according to WAC 296-62-07721 (6)(b) and disposed of according to WAC 296-62-07713 (1)(a) and (2)(f).

(g) Any spills or releases of asbestos containing waste material from inside of the enclosure or vacuum hose or vacuum filter shall be immediately cleaned up and disposed of according to WAC 296-62-07713 (1)(a) and (2)(f).

(2) Low pressure/wet cleaning method.

(a) A catch basin shall be placed under the brake assembly, positioned to avoid splashes and spills.

(b) The reservoir shall contain water containing an organic solvent or wetting agent. The flow of liquid shall be controlled such that the brake assembly is gently flooded to prevent the asbestos-containing brake dust from becoming airborne.

(d) After removing the brake drum, the wheel hub and back of the brake assembly shall be thoroughly wetted to suppress dust.

(e) The brake support plate, brake shoes and brake components used to attach the brake shoes shall be thoroughly washed before removing the old shoes.

(f) In systems using filters, the filters, when full, shall be first wetted with a fine mist of water, then removed and placed immediately in an impermeable container, labeled according to WAC 296-62-07721 (6)(b) and disposed of according to WAC 296-62-07713 (1)(a) and (2)(f).

(g) Any spills of asbestos-containing aqueous solution or any asbestos-containing waste material shall be cleaned up immediately and disposed of according to WAC 296-62-07713 (1)(a) and (2)(f).

(h) The use of dry brushing during low pressure/wet cleaning operations is prohibited.

(3) Equivalent methods. An equivalent method is one which has sufficient written detail so that it can be reproduced and has been demonstrated that the exposures resulting from the equivalent method are equal to or less than the exposure which would result from the use of the method described in subsection (1) of this appendix. For purposes of making this comparison, the employer shall assume that exposures resulting from the use of the method described in subsection (1) of this appendix shall not exceed 0.016 f/cc, as measured by the WISHA reference method and as averaged over at least 18 personal samples.

(4) Wet method.

(a) A spray bottle, hose nozzle, or other implement capable of delivering a fine mist of water or amended water or other delivery system capable of delivering water at low pressure, shall be used to first thoroughly wet the brake and clutch parts. Brake and clutch components shall then be wiped clean with a cloth.

(b) The cloth shall be placed in an impermeable container, labeled according to WAC 296-62-07721 (6)(b) and then disposed of according to WAC 296-62-07713 (1)(a) and (2)(f), or the cloth shall be laundered in a way to prevent the release of asbestos fibers in excess of 0.1 fiber per cubic centimeter of air.

(c) Any spills of solvent or any asbestos containing waste material shall be cleaned up immediately according to WAC 296-62-07713 (1)(a) and (2)(f).

(d) The use of dry brushing during the wet method operations is prohibited.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 89-11-035 (Order 89-03), 296-62-07745, filed 5/15/89, effective 6/30/89; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07745, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07745, filed 4/27/87.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 89-03, filed 5/15/89, effective 6/30/89)

WAC 296-62-07747 Appendix G--Substance technical information for asbestos--Nonmandatory. (1) Substance identification.

(a) Substance: "Asbestos" is the name of a class of magnesium-silicate minerals that occur in fibrous form. Minerals that are included in this group are chrysotile, crocidolite, amosite, tremolite asbestos, anthophyllite asbestos, and actinolite asbestos.

(b) Asbestos is used in the manufacture of heat-resistant clothing, automotive brake and clutch linings, and a variety of building materials including floor tiles, roofing felts, ceiling tiles, asbestos-cement pipe and sheet, and fire-resistant drywall. Asbestos is also present in pipe and boiler insulation materials, and in sprayed-on materials located on beams, in crawlspaces, and between walls.

(c) The potential for a product containing asbestos, tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite to release ((~~breatheable~~)) breathable fibers depends on its degree of friability. Friable means that the material can be crumbled with hand pressure and is therefore likely to emit fibers. The fibrous or fluffy sprayed-on materials used for fireproofing, insulation, or sound proofing are considered to be friable, and they readily release airborne fibers if disturbed. Materials such as vinyl-asbestos floor tile or roofing felts are considered nonfriable and generally do not emit airborne fibers unless subjected to sanding or sawing operations. Asbestos-cement pipe or sheet can emit airborne fibers if the materials are cut or sawed, or if they are broken during demolition operations.

(d) Permissible exposure: Exposure to airborne asbestos fibers may not exceed ((~~0.2~~)) 0.1 fiber((s)) per cubic centimeter of air (((~~0.2~~)) 0.1 f/cc) averaged over the eight-hour workday (time weighted average), or ((~~0.1~~)) 1 fiber((s)) per cubic centimeter of air (((~~0.1~~)) 1 f/cc) during any ((~~fifteen~~)) thirty minute period, (excursion limit).

(2) Health hazard data.

(a) Asbestos can cause disabling respiratory disease and various types of cancers if the fibers are inhaled. Inhaling or ingesting fibers from contaminated clothing or skin can also result in these diseases. The symptoms of these diseases generally do not appear for twenty or more years after initial exposure.

(b) Exposure to asbestos has been shown to cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and cancer of the stomach and colon. Mesothelioma is a rear cancer of the thin membrane lining of the chest and abdomen. Symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, pain in the walls of the chest, and/or abdominal pain.

(3) Respirators and protective clothing.

(a) Respirators: You are required to wear a respirator when performing tasks that result in asbestos exposure that exceeds ((~~0.2~~)) 0.1 fiber((s)) per cubic centimeter of air (((~~0.2~~)) 0.1 f/cc) as an eight-hour time weighted average and/or 1.0 fiber per cubic centimeter (1 f/cc) during any ((15)) thirty minute period (excursion limit). These conditions can occur while your employer is in the process of installing engineering controls to reduce asbestos exposure, or where engineering controls are not feasible to reduce asbestos exposure. Air-purifying respirators equipped with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter can be used where airborne asbestos fiber concentrations do not exceed ((2)) 1 f/cc; otherwise, air-supplied, positive-pressure, full facepiece respirators must be used. Disposable respirators or dust masks are not permitted to be used for asbestos work. For effective protection, respirators must fit your face and head snugly. Your employer is required to conduct fit tests when you are first assigned a respirator and every six months thereafter. Respirators should not be loosened or removed in work situations where their use is required.

(b) Protective clothing: You are required to wear protective clothing in work areas where asbestos fiber concentrations exceed the permissible exposure limits to prevent contamination of the skin. Where protective clothing is required, your employer must provide you with clean garments. Unless you are working on a large asbestos removal or demolition project, your employer must also provide a change room and separate lockers for your street clothes and contaminated work clothes. If you are working on a large asbestos removal or demolition project, and where it is feasible to do so, your employer must provide a clean room, shower, and decontamination room contiguous to the work area. When leaving the work area, you must remove contaminated clothing before proceeding to the shower. If the shower is not adjacent to the work area, you must vacuum your clothing before proceeding to the change room and shower. To prevent inhaling fibers in contaminated change rooms and showers, leave your respirator on until you leave the shower and enter the clean change room.

(4) Disposal procedures and cleanup.

(a) Wastes that are generated by processes where asbestos is present include:

(i) Empty asbestos shipping containers.

(ii) Process wastes such as cuttings, trimmings, or reject material.

(iii) Housekeeping waste from sweeping or HEPA vacuuming.

(iv) Asbestos fireproofing or insulating material that is removed from buildings.

(v) Building products that contain asbestos removed during building renovation or demolition.

(vi) Contaminated disposable protective clothing.

(b) Empty shipping bags can be flattened under exhaust hoods and packed into airtight containers for disposal. Empty shipping drums are difficult to clean and should be sealed.

(c) Vacuum bags or disposable paper filters should not be cleaned, but should be sprayed with a fine water mist and placed into a labeled waste container.

(d) Process waste and housekeeping waste should be wetted with water or a mixture of water and surfactant prior to packaging in disposable containers.

(e) Material containing asbestos that is removed from buildings must be disposed of in leaktight 6-mil thick plastic bags, plastic-lined cardboard containers, or plastic-lined metal containers. These wastes, which are removed while wet, should be sealed in containers before they dry out to minimize the release of asbestos fibers during handling.

(5) Access to information.

(a) Each year, your employer is required to inform you of the information contained in this standard and appendices for asbestos. In addition, your employer must instruct you in the proper work practices for handling materials containing asbestos and the correct use of protective equipment.

(b) Your employer is required to determine whether you are being exposed to asbestos. You or your representative has the right to observe employee measurements and to record the results obtained. Your employer is required to inform you of your exposure, and, if you are exposed above the permissible limits, he or she is required to inform you of the actions that are being taken to reduce your exposure to within the permissible limits.

(c) Your employer is required to keep records of your exposures and medical examinations. These exposure records must be kept for at least thirty years. Medical records must be kept for the period of your employment plus thirty years.

(d) Your employer is required to release your exposure and medical records to your physician or designated representative upon your written request.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 89-11-035 (Order 89-03), 296-62-07747, filed 5/15/89, effective 6/30/89; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07747, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07747, filed 4/27/87.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 94-07, filed 7/20/94, effective 9/20/94)

WAC 296-62-07749 Appendix H--Medical surveillance guidelines for asbestos--Nonmandatory. (1) Route of entry inhalation, ingestion.

(2) Toxicology.

Clinical evidence of the adverse effects associated with exposure to asbestos is present in the form of several well-conducted epidemiological studies of occupationally exposed workers, family contacts of workers, and persons living near asbestos mines. These studies have shown a definite association between exposure to asbestos and an increased incidence of lung cancer, pleural and peretoneal mesothelioma, gastrointestinal cancer, and asbestosis. The latter is a disabling fibrotic lung disease that is caused only by exposure to asbestos. Exposure to asbestos has also been associated with an increased incidence of esophageal, kidney, laryngeal, pharyngeal, and buccal cavity cancers. As with other known chronic occupational diseases, disease associated with asbestos generally appears about twenty years following the first occurrence of exposure: There are no known acute effects associated with exposure to asbestos.

Epidemiological studies indicate that the risk of lung cancer among exposed workers who smoke cigarettes is greatly increased over the risk of lung cancer among nonexposed smokers or exposed nonsmokers. These studies suggest that cessation of smoking will reduce the risk of lung cancer for a person exposed to asbestos but will not reduce it to the same level of risk as that existing for an exposed worker who has never smoked.

(3) Signs and symptoms of exposure-related disease.

The signs and symptoms of lung cancer or gastrointestinal cancer induced by exposure to asbestos are not unique, except that a chest x-ray of an exposed patient with lung cancer may show pleural plaques, pleural calcification, or pleural fibrosis. Symptoms characteristic of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, pain in the walls of the chest, or abdominal pain. Mesothelioma has a much longer latency period compared with lung cancer (forty years versus fifteen to twenty years), and mesothelioma is therefore more likely to be found among workers who were first exposed to asbestos at an early age. Mesothelioma is always fatal.

Asbestosis is pulmonary fibrosis caused by the accumulation of asbestos fibers in the lungs. Symptoms include shortness of breath, coughing, fatigue, and vague feelings of sickness. When the fibrosis worsens, shortness of breath occurs even at rest. The diagnosis of asbestosis is based on a history of exposure to asbestos, the presence of characteristic radiologic changes, endinspiratory crackles (rales), and other clinical features of fibrosing lung disease. Pleural plaques and thickening are observed on x-rays taken during the early stages of the disease. Asbestosis is often a progressive disease even in the absence of continued exposure, although this appears to be a highly individualized characteristic. In severe cases, death may be caused by respiratory or cardiac failure.

(4) Surveillance and preventive considerations.

As noted above, exposure to asbestos has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, mesothelioma, gastrointestinal cancer, and asbestosis among occupationally exposed workers. Adequate screening tests to determine an employee's potential for developing serious chronic diseases, such as cancer, from exposure to asbestos do not presently exist. However, some tests, particularly chest x-rays and pulmonary function tests, may indicate that an employee has been overexposed to asbestos increasing his or her risk of developing exposure-related chronic diseases. It is important for the physician to become familiar with the operating conditions in which occupational exposure to asbestos is likely to occur. This is particularly important in evaluating medical and work histories and in conducting physical examinations. When an active employee has been identified as having been overexposed to asbestos measures taken by the employer to eliminate or mitigate further exposure should also lower the risk of serious long-term consequences.

The employer is required to institute a medical surveillance program for all employees who are or will be exposed to asbestos at or above the ((~~action level~~)) permissible exposure limits (0.1 fiber per cubic centimeter of air) for 30 or more days per year and for all employees who are assigned to wear a negative pressure respirator. All examinations and procedures must be performed by or under the supervision of a licensed physician, at a reasonable time and place, and at no cost to the employee.

Although broad latitude is given to the physician in prescribing specific tests to be included in the medical surveillance program, WISHA requires inclusion of the following elements in the routine examination:

(a) Medical and work histories with special emphasis directed to symptoms of the respiratory system, cardiovascular system, and digestive tract.

(b) Completion of the respiratory disease questionnaire contained in WAC 296-62-07741, Appendix D.

(c) A physical examination including a chest roentgenogram and pulmonary function test that includes measurement of the employee's forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume at one second (FEV₁).

(d) Any laboratory or other test that the examining physician deems by sound medical practice to be necessary.

The employer is required to make the prescribed tests available at least annually to those employees covered; more often than specified if recommended by the examining physician; and upon termination of employment.

The employer is required to provide the physician with the following information: A copy of this standard and appendices; a description of the employee's duties as they relate to asbestos exposure; the employee's representative level of exposure to asbestos; a description of any personal protective and respiratory equipment used; and information from previous medical examinations of the affected employee that is not otherwise available to the physician. Making this information available to the physician will aid in the evaluation of the employee's health in relation to assigned duties and fitness to wear personal protective equipment, if required.

The employer is required to obtain a written opinion from the examining physician containing the results of the medical examination; the physician's opinion as to whether the employee has any detected medical conditions that would place the employee at an increased risk of exposure-related disease; any recommended limitations on the employee or on the use of personal protective equipment; and a statement that the employee has been informed by the physician of the results of the medical examination and of any medical conditions related to asbestos exposure that require further explanation or treatment. This written opinion must not reveal specific findings or diagnoses unrelated to exposure to asbestos and a copy of the opinion must be provided to the affected employee.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 94-15-096 (Order 94-07), 296-62-07749, filed 7/20/94, effective 9/20/94; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07749, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050(2) and 49.17.040. 87-10-008 (Order 87-06), 296-62-07749, filed 4/27/87.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 94-07, filed 7/20/94, effective 9/20/94)

WAC 296-62-07751 Appendix I--Work practices and engineering controls for ((~~major asbestos removal, renovation, and demolition operations~~)) Class I asbestos operations--Nonmandatory. ((This is a nonmandatory appendix designed to provide guidelines to assist employers in complying with the requirements of WAC 296-62-077 through 296-62-07753. Specifically, this appendix describes the equipment, methods, and procedures that should be used in major asbestos removal projects conducted to abate a recognized asbestos hazard or in preparation for building renovation or demolition. These projects require the construction of negative-pressure temporary enclosures to contain the asbestos material and to prevent the exposure of bystanders and other employees at the worksite. WAC 296-62-07712(1) of the standard requires that "The employer, wherever feasible, shall establish negative-pressure enclosures having a minimum of one air exchange every fifteen minutes within the enclosure before commencing removal, demolition, or renovation operations." Employers should also be aware that, when conducting asbestos removal projects, they may be required under the National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAPS), 40 CFR Part 61, Subpart M, or EPA regulations under the Clean Water Act.

(1) Introduction. Construction of a negative-pressure enclosure is a simple but time-consuming process that requires careful preparation and execution; however, if the procedures below are followed, contractors should be assured of achieving a temporary barricade that will protect employees and others outside the enclosure from exposure to asbestos and minimize to the extent possible the exposure of asbestos workers inside the barrier as well.

The equipment and materials required to construct these barriers are readily available and easily installed and used. In addition to an enclosure around the removal site, the standard requires employers to provide hygiene facilities that ensure that their asbestos contaminated employees do not leave the worksite with asbestos on their persons or clothing; the construction of these facilities is also described below. The steps in the process of preparing the asbestos removal site, building the enclosure, constructing hygiene facilities, removing the asbestos-containing material, and restoring the site include:

~~(a) Planning the removal project;~~

~~(b) Procuring the necessary materials and equipment;~~

~~(c) Preparing the work area;~~

~~(d) Removing the asbestos-containing material;~~

~~(e) Cleaning the work area; and~~

~~(f) Disposing of the asbestos-containing waste.~~

(2) Planning the removal project. The planning of an asbestos removal project is critical to completing the project safely and cost-effectively. A written asbestos removal plan should be prepared that describes the equipment and procedures that will be used throughout the project. The asbestos abatement plan will aid not only in executing the project but also in complying with the reporting requirements of the USEPA asbestos regulations (40 CFR 61, Subpart M), which call for specific information such as a description of control methods and control equipment to be used and the disposal sites the contractor proposes to use to dispose of the asbestos-containing materials.

~~The asbestos abatement plan should contain the following information:~~

~~(a) A physical description of the work area;~~

~~(b) A description of the approximate amount of material to be removed;~~

~~(c) A schedule for turning off and sealing existing ventilation systems;~~

~~(d) Personnel hygiene procedures;~~

~~(e) Labeling procedures;~~

~~(f) A description of personal protective equipment and clothing to be worn by employees;~~

~~(g) A description of the local exhaust ventilation systems to be used;~~

~~(h) A description of work practices to be observed by employees;~~

~~(i) A description of the methods to be used to remove the asbestos-containing material;~~

~~(j) The wetting agent to be used;~~

~~(k) A description of the sealant to be used at the end of the project;~~

~~(l) An air monitoring plan;~~

~~(m) A description of the method to be used to transport waste material; and~~

~~(n) The location of the dump site.~~

(3) Materials and equipment necessary for asbestos removal. Although individual asbestos removal projects vary in terms of the equipment required to accomplish the removal of the material, some equipment and materials are common to most asbestos removal operations. Equipment and materials that should be available at the beginning of each project are: (a) Rolls of polyethylene sheeting; (b) rolls of gray duct tape or clear plastic tape; (c) HEPA-filtered vacuum(s); (d) HEPA-filtered portable ventilation system(s); (e) a wetting agent; (f) an airless sprayer; (g) a portable shower unit; (h) appropriate respirators; (i) disposable coveralls; (j) signs and labels; (k) preprinted disposal bags; and (l) a manometer or pressure gauge.

(a) and (b) Rolls of polyethylene plastic and tape. Rolls of polyethylene plastic (6 mil in thickness) should be available to construct the asbestos removal enclosure and to seal windows, doors, ventilation systems, wall penetrations, and ceilings and floors in the work area. Gray duct tape or clear plastic tape should be used to seal the edges of the plastic and to seal any holes in the plastic enclosure. Polyethylene plastic sheeting can be purchased in rolls up to twelve to twenty feet in width and up to one hundred feet in length.

(c) HEPA-filtered vacuum. A HEPA-filtered vacuum is essential for cleaning the work area after the asbestos has been removed. Such vacuums are designed to be used with a HEPA (high-efficiency particular air) filter, which is capable of removing 99.97 percent of the asbestos particles from the air. Various sizes and capacities of HEPA vacuums are available. One manufacturer produces three models that range in capacity from five and one-quarter gallons to seventeen gallons (see Figure I-1). All of these models are portable, and all have long hoses capable of reaching out-of-the-way places, such as areas above ceiling tiles, behind pipes, etc.

(d) Exhaust air filtration system. A portable ventilation system is necessary to create a negative-pressure within the asbestos removal enclosure. Such units are equipped with a HEPA filter and are designed to exhaust and clean the air inside the enclosure before exhausting it to the outside of the enclosure (see Figure I-2). Systems are available from several manufacturers. One supplier has two ventilation units that range in capacity from six hundred cubic feet per minute (CFM) to one thousand seven hundred CFM. According to the manufacturer's literature, these units filter particles of 0.3 micron in size with an efficiency of 99.99 percent. The number and capacity of units required to ventilate an enclosure depend on the size of the area to be ventilated.

~~Figure I-1. HEPA-filtered vacuums~~

~~(WAC 296-62-07751, Figure I-1, Illus. 1)~~

~~(WAC 296-62-07751, Figure I-1, Illus. 2)~~

~~(WAC 296-62-07751, Figure I-1, Illus. 3)~~

~~Source: Product Catalog, Asbestos Control Technologies, Inc., Maple Shade, N.J., 1985~~

~~Figure I-2. Portable exhaust ventilation system with HEPA filter~~

~~(WAC 296-62-07751, Figure I-2, Illus. 4)~~

~~Source: Product Catalog, Asbestos Control Technologies, Inc., Maple Shade, N.J., 1985~~

(e) Wetting agents. Wetting agents (surfactants) are added to water (which is then called amended water) and used to soak asbestos-containing materials; amended water penetrates more effectively than plain water and permits more thorough soaking of the asbestos-containing materials. Wetting the asbestos-containing material reduces the number of fibers that will break free and become airborne when the asbestos-containing material is handled or otherwise disturbed. Asbestos-containing materials should be thoroughly soaked before removal is attempted; the dislodged material should feel spongy to the touch. Wetting agents are generally prepared by mixing one to three ounces of wetting agent to five gallons of water.

One type of asbestos, amosite, is relatively resistant to soaking, either with plain or amended water. The work practices of choice when working with amosite-containing material are to soak the material as much as possible and then to bag it for disposal immediately after removal, so that the material has no time to dry and be ground into smaller particles that are more likely to liberate airborne asbestos.

In a very limited number of situations, it may not be possible to wet the asbestos-containing material before removing it. Examples of such rare situations are: (i) Removal of asbestos material from a "live" electrical box that was oversprayed with the material when the rest of the area was sprayed with asbestos-containing coating; and (ii) removing asbestos-containing insulation from a live steam pipe. In both of these situations, the preferred approach would be to turn off the electricity or steam, respectively, to permit wet removal methods to be used. However, where removal work must be performed during working hours, i.e., when normal operations cannot be disrupted, the asbestos-containing material must be removed dry. Immediate bagging is then the only method of minimizing the amount of airborne asbestos generated.

(f) Airless sprayer. Airless sprayers are used to apply amended water to asbestos-containing materials. Airless sprayers allow the amended water to be applied in a fine spray that minimizes the release of asbestos fibers by reducing the impact of the spray on the material to be removed. Airless sprayers are inexpensive and readily available.

(g) Portable shower. Unless the site has available a permanent shower facility that is contiguous to the removal area, a portable shower system is necessary to permit employees to clean themselves after exposure to asbestos and to remove any asbestos contamination from their hair and bodies. Taking a shower prevents employees from leaving the work area with asbestos on their clothes and thus prevents the spread of asbestos contamination to areas outside the asbestos removal area. This measure also protects members of the families of asbestos workers from possible exposure to asbestos. Showers should be supplied with warm water and a drain. A shower water filtration system to filter asbestos fibers from the shower water is recommended. Portable shower units are readily available, inexpensive, and easy to install and transport.

(h) Respirators. Employees involved in asbestos removal projects should be provided with appropriate NIOSH-approved respirators. Selection of the appropriate respirator should be based on the concentration of asbestos fibers in the work area. If the concentration of asbestos fibers is unknown, employees should be provided with respirators that will provide protection against the highest concentration of asbestos fibers that can reasonably be expected to exist in the work area. For all work within an enclosure, employees should wear supplied air respirators (see WAC 296-62-07715(3)).

(i) Disposable coveralls. Employees involved in asbestos removal operations should be provided with disposable impervious coveralls that are equipped with head and foot covers. Such coveralls are typically made of Tyvek.¹ The coverall has a zipper front and elastic wrists and ankles.

(j) Signs and labels. Before work begins, a supply of signs to demarcate the entrance to the work area should be obtained. Signs are available that have the wording required by the final WISHA standard. The required labels are also commercially available as press-on labels and preprinted on the 6-mil polyethylene plastic bags used to dispose of asbestos-containing waste material.

(4) Preparing the work area. Preparation for constructing negative-pressure enclosures should begin with the removal of all movable objects from the work area, e.g., desks, chairs, rugs, and light fixtures, to ensure that these objects do not become contaminated with asbestos. When objects or surfaces are contaminated or are suspected of being contaminated, they should be vacuumed with a HEPA vacuum and cleaned with amended water, unless they are made of material that will be damaged by the wetting agent; wiping with plain water is recommended in those cases where amended water will damage the object. Before the asbestos removal work begins, objects that cannot be removed from the work area should be covered with a 6-mil-thick polyethylene plastic sheeting that is securely taped with duct tape or plastic tape to achieve an air-tight seal around the object.

(5) Constructing the enclosure. When all objects have either been removed from the work area or covered with plastic, all penetrations of the floor, walls, and ceiling should be sealed with 6-mil polyethylene plastic and tape to prevent airborne asbestos from escaping into areas outside the work area or from lodging in cracks around the penetrations. Penetrations that require sealing are typically found around electrical conduits, telephone wires, and water supply and drain pipes. A single entrance to be used for access and egress to the work area should be selected, and all other doors and windows should be sealed with tape or be covered with 6-mil polyethylene plastic sheeting and securely taped. Covering windows and unnecessary doors with a layer of polyethylene before covering the walls provides a second layer of protection and saves time in installation because it reduces the number of edges that must be cut and taped. All other surfaces such as support columns, ledges, pipes, and other surfaces should also be covered with polyethylene plastic sheeting and taped before the walls themselves are completely covered with sheeting.

Next a thin layer of spray adhesive should be sprayed along the top of all walls surrounding the enclosed work area, close to the wall-ceiling interface, and a layer of polyethylene plastic sheeting should be stuck to this adhesive and taped. The entire inside surfaces of all wall areas are covered in this manner, and the sheeting over the walls is extended across the floor area until it meets in the center of the area, where it is taped to form a single layer of material encasing the entire room except for the ceiling. A final layer of plastic sheeting is then laid across the plastic-covered floor area and up the walls to a level of two feet or so; this layer provides a second protective layer of plastic sheeting over the floor, which can then be removed and disposed of easily after the asbestos-containing material that has dropped to the floor has been bagged and removed.

(6) Building hygiene facilities. WAC 296-62-07719 mandates that employers involved in asbestos removal, demolition, or renovation operations provide their employees with hygiene facilities to be used to decontaminate asbestos-exposed workers, equipment, and clothing before such employees leave the work area. These decontamination facilities consist of:

~~(a) A clean change room;~~

~~(b) A shower; and~~

~~(c) An equipment room.~~

The clean change room is an area in which employees remove their street clothes and don their respirators and disposable protective clothing. The clean room should have hooks on the wall or be equipped with lockers for the storage of workers' clothing and personal articles. Extra disposable coveralls and towels can also be stored in the clean change room.

The shower should be contiguous with both the clean and dirty change room (see Figure I-3) and should be used by all workers leaving the work area. The shower should also be used to clean asbestos-contaminated equipment and materials, such as the outsides of asbestos waste bags and hand tools used in the removal process.

~~Figure I-3. Cutaway view of enclosure and hygiene facilities~~

~~(WAC 296-62-07751, Figure I-3, Illus. 5)~~

~~Source: EPA 1985. Asbestos Waste Management Guidance (EPA/530 SW-85-007)~~

The equipment room (also called the dirty change room) is the area where workers remove their protective coveralls and where equipment that is to be used in the work area can be stored. The equipment room should be lined with 6-mil-thick polyethylene plastic sheeting in the same way as was done in the work area enclosure. Two layers of 6-mil polyethylene plastic sheeting that are not taped together from a double flap or barrier between the equipment room and the work area and between the shower and the clean change room (see Figure I-4).

~~Figure I-4. Typical hygiene facility layout~~

~~(WAC 296-62-07751, Figure I-4, Illus. 6)~~

When feasible, the clean change room, shower, and equipment room should be contiguous and adjacent to the negative-pressure enclosure surrounding the removal area. In the overwhelming number of cases, hygiene facilities can be built contiguous to the negative-pressure enclosure. In some cases, however, hygiene facilities may have to be located on another floor of the building where removal of asbestos-containing materials is taking place. In these instances, the hygiene facilities can in effect be made to be contiguous to the work area by constructing a polyethylene plastic "tunnel" from the work area to the hygiene facilities. Such a tunnel can be made even in cases where the hygiene facilities are located several floors above or below the work area; the tunnel begins with a double flap door at the enclosure, extends through the exit from the floor, continues down the necessary number of flights of stairs and goes through a double flap entrance to the hygiene facilities, which have been prepared as described above. The tunnel is constructed of two-inch by four-inch lumber or aluminum struts and covered with 6-mil-thick polyethylene plastic sheeting.

In the rare instances when there is not enough space to permit any hygiene facilities to be built at the worksite, employees should be directed to change into a clean disposable worksuit immediately after exiting the enclosure (without removing their respirators) and to proceed immediately to the shower. Alternatively, employees could be directed to vacuum their disposable coveralls with a HEPA-filtered vacuum before proceeding to a shower located a distance from the enclosure.

The clean room, shower, and equipment room must be sealed completely to ensure that the sole source of air flow through these areas originates from uncontaminated areas outside the asbestos removal, demolition, or renovation enclosure. The shower must be drained properly after each use to ensure that contaminated water is not released to uncontaminated areas. If waste water is inadvertently released, it should be cleaned up as soon as possible to prevent any asbestos in the water from drying and becoming airborne in areas outside the work area.

(7) Establishing negative-pressure within the enclosure. After construction of the enclosure is completed, a ventilation system(s) should be installed to create a negative-pressure within the enclosure with respect to the area outside the enclosure. Such ventilation systems must be equipped with HEPA filters to prevent the release of asbestos fibers to the environment outside the enclosure and should be operated twenty-four hours per day during the entire project until the final cleanup is completed and the results of final air samples are received from the laboratory. A sufficient amount of air should be exhausted to create a pressure of -0.02 inches of water within the enclosure with respect to the area outside the enclosure.

These ventilation systems should exhaust the HEPA-filtered clean air outside the building in which the asbestos removal, demolition, or renovation is taking place (see Figure I-5). If access to the outside is not available, the ventilation system can exhaust the HEPA-filtered asbestos-free air to an area within the building that is as far away as possible from the enclosure. Care should be taken to ensure that the clean air is released either to an asbestos-free area or in such a way as not to disturb any asbestos-containing materials.

Figure I-5. Examples of negative-pressure systems. DF, decontamination facility; EU, exhaust unit; WA, worker access; A, single-room work area with multiple windows; B, single-room work area with single window near entrance; C, large single-room work area with windows and auxiliary makeup air source (dotted arrow). Arrows denote direction of air flow. Circled numbers indicate progression of removal sequence.

~~(WAC 296-62-07751, Figure I-5, Illus. 7)~~

~~Source: EPA 1985. Guidance for Controlling Asbestos-Containing Materials in Buildings (EPA 560/5-85-024)~~

A manometer or pressure gauge for measuring the negative pressure within the enclosure should be installed and should be monitored frequently throughout all work shifts during which asbestos removal, demolition, or renovation takes place. Several types of manometers and pressure gauges are available for this purpose.

All asbestos removal, renovation, and demolition operations should have a program for monitoring the concentration of airborne asbestos and employee exposures to asbestos. Area samples should be collected inside the enclosure (approximately four samples for five thousand square feet of enclosure area). At least two samples should be collected outside the work area, one at the entrance to the clean change room and one at the exhaust of the portable ventilation system. In addition, several breathing zone samples should be collected from those workers who can reasonably be expected to have the highest potential exposure to asbestos.

~~(8) Removing asbestos materials. Employers involved in asbestos removal, demolition, or renovation operations designate a certified asbestos supervisor to:~~

~~(a) Set up the enclosure;~~

~~(b) Ensure the integrity of the enclosure;~~

~~(c) Control entry to and exit from the enclosure;~~

~~(d) Supervise all employee exposure monitoring required by this section;~~

~~(e) Ensure the use of protective clothing and equipment;~~

~~(f) Ensure that employees are trained in the use of engineering controls, work practices, and personal protective equipment;~~

~~(g) Ensure the use of hygiene facilities and the observance of proper decontamination procedures; and~~

~~(h) Ensure that engineering controls are functioning properly.~~

The certified asbestos supervisor will generally be a certified industrial hygienist, an industrial hygienist with training and experience in the handling of asbestos, or a person who has such training and experience as a result of on-the-job training and experience.

Ensuring the integrity of the enclosure is accomplished by inspecting the enclosure before asbestos removal work begins and prior to each work shift throughout the entire period work is being conducted in the enclosure. The inspection should be conducted by locating all areas where air might escape from the enclosure; this is best accomplished by running a hand over all seams in the plastic enclosure to ensure that no seams are ripped and the tape is securely in place.

The certified asbestos supervisor should also ensure that all unauthorized personnel do not enter the enclosure and that all employees and other personnel who enter the enclosure have the proper protective clothing and equipment. He or she should also ensure that all employees and other personnel who enter the enclosure use the hygiene facilities and observe the proper decontamination procedures (described below).

Proper work practices are necessary during asbestos removal, demolition, and renovation to ensure that the concentration of asbestos fibers inside the enclosure remains as low as possible. One of the most important work practices is to wet the asbestos-containing material before it is disturbed. After the asbestos-containing material is thoroughly wetted, it should be removed by scraping (as in the case of sprayed-on or troweled-on ceiling material) or removed by cutting the metal bands or wire mesh that support the asbestos-containing material on boilers or pipes. Any residue that remains on the surface of the object from which asbestos is being removed should be wire brushed and wet wiped.

Bagging asbestos waste material promptly after its removal is another work practice control that is effective in reducing the airborne concentration of asbestos within the enclosure. Whenever possible, the asbestos should be removed and placed directly into bags for disposal rather than dropping the material to the floor and picking up all of the material when the removal is complete. If a significant amount of time elapses between the time that the material is removed and the time it is bagged, the asbestos material is likely to dry out and generate asbestos-laden dust when it is disturbed by people working within the enclosure. Any asbestos-contaminated supplies and equipment that cannot be decontaminated should be disposed of in prelabeled bags; items in this category include plastic sheeting, disposable work clothing, respirator cartridges, and contaminated wash water.

A checklist is one of the most effective methods of ensuring adequate surveillance of the integrity of the asbestos removal enclosure. Such a checklist is shown in Figure I-6. Filling out the checklist at the beginning of each shift in which asbestos removal is being performed will serve to document that all the necessary precautions will be taken during the asbestos removal work. The checklist contains entries for ensuring that:

~~The work area enclosure is complete;~~

~~The negative-pressure system is in operation;~~

~~Necessary signs and labels are used;~~

~~Asbestos Removal, Renovation, and Demolition Checklist~~

~~Date Location~~

~~Supervisor Project #~~

~~Work Area (sq. ft.)~~

~~Yes No~~

~~I. Work site barrier~~

~~Floor covered . . . . . .~~

~~Walls covered . . . . . .~~

~~Area ventilation off . . . . . .~~

~~All edges sealed . . . . . .~~

~~Penetrations sealed . . . . . .~~

~~Entry curtains . . . . . .~~

~~II. Negative air pressure~~

~~HEPA Vac . . . . Ventilation system . . . .~~

~~Constant operation . . . . . .~~

~~Negative pressure achieved . . . . . .~~

~~III. Signs~~

~~Work area entrance . . . . . .~~

~~Bags labeled . . . . . .~~

~~IV. Work practices~~

~~Removed material promptly bagged . . . . . .~~

~~Material worked wet . . . . . .~~

~~HEPA vacuum used . . . . . .~~

~~No smoking . . . . . .~~

~~No eating, drinking . . . . . .~~

~~Work area cleaned after completion . . . . . .~~

~~Personnel decontaminated each~~

~~departure . . . . . .~~

~~V. Protective equipment~~

~~Disposable clothing used one time . . . . . .~~

~~Proper NIOSH-approved respirators . . . . . .~~

~~VII. Showers~~

~~On site . . . . . .~~

~~Functioning . . . . . .~~

~~Soap and towels . . . . . .~~

~~Used by all personnel . . . . . .~~

~~Figure I-6. Checklist~~

~~Appropriate work practices are used;~~

~~Necessary protective clothing and equipment are used; and~~

~~Appropriate decontamination procedures are being followed.~~

(9) Cleaning the work area. After all of the asbestos-containing material is removed and bagged, the entire work area should be cleaned until it is free of all visible asbestos dust. All surfaces from which asbestos has been removed should be cleaned by wire brushing the surfaces, HEPA vacuuming these surfaces, and wiping them with amended water. The inside of the plastic enclosure should be vacuumed with a HEPA vacuum and wet wiped until there is no visible dust in the enclosure. Particular attention should be given to small horizontal surfaces such as pipes, electrical conduits, lights, and support tracks for drop ceilings. All such surfaces should be free of visible dust before the final air samples are collected.

Additional sampling should be conducted inside the enclosure after the cleanup of the work area has been completed. Approximately four area samples should be collected for each five thousand square feet of enclosure area. The enclosure should not be dismantled unless the final samples show asbestos concentrations of less than the action level.

A clearance checklist is an effective method of ensuring that all surfaces are adequately cleaned and the enclosure is ready to be dismantled. Figure I-7 shows a checklist that can be used during the final inspection phase of asbestos abatement, removal, or renovation operations.

~~Final Inspection of Asbestos Removal, Renovation,~~

~~and Demolition Projects~~

~~Date:~~

~~Project:~~

~~Location:~~

~~Building:~~

~~CHECKLIST:~~

~~Residual dust on: Yes No Yes No~~

~~a. Floor . . . . . . e. Horizontal~~

~~b. Horizontal surfaces . . . . . .~~

~~surfaces . . . . . . f. Pipes . . . . . .~~

~~c. Pipes . . . . . . g. Ducts . . . . . .~~

~~d. Ventilation h. Register . . . . . .~~

~~equipment . . . . . . i. Lights . . . . . .~~

~~FIELD NOTES:~~

~~Record any problems encountered here.~~

~~FINAL AIR SAMPLE RESULTS:~~

~~Figure I-7. Clearance Checklist~~

~~¹ Mention of trade names or commercial products does not constitute endorsement or recommendation for use.~~))

This is a nonmandatory appendix to the asbestos standards for construction and for shipyards. It describes criteria and procedures for erecting and using negative pressure enclosures for Class I Asbestos Work, when NPEs are used as an allowable control method to comply with WAC 296-62-07712 (7)(a). Many small and variable details are involved in the erection of a negative pressure enclosure. OSHA and most participants in the rulemaking agreed that only the major, more performance oriented criteria should be made mandatory. These criteria are set out in WAC 296-62-07712. In addition, this appendix includes these mandatory specifications and procedures in its guidelines in order to make this appendix coherent and helpful. The mandatory nature of the criteria which appear in the regulatory text is not changed because they are included in this "nonmandatory" appendix. Similarly, the additional criteria and procedures included as guidelines in the appendix, do not become mandatory because mandatory criteria are also included in these comprehensive guidelines.

In addition, none of the criteria, both mandatory and recommended, are meant to specify or imply the need for use of patented or licensed methods or equipment. Recommended specifications included in this attachment should not discourage the use of creative alternatives which can be shown to reliably achieve the objectives of negative-pressure enclosures.

Requirements included in this appendix, cover general provisions to be followed in all asbestos jobs, provisions which must be followed for all Class I asbestos jobs, and provisions governing the construction and testing of negative pressure enclosures. The first category includes the requirement for use of wet methods, HEPA vacuums, and immediate bagging of waste; Class I work must conform to the following provisions:

- oversight by competent person

- use of critical barriers over all openings to work area

- isolation of HVAC systems

- use of impermeable dropcloths and coverage of all objects within regulated areas

In addition, more specific requirements for NPEs include:

- maintenance of -0.02 inches water gauge within enclosure

- manometric measurements

- air movement away from employees performing removal work

- smoke testing or equivalent for detection of leaks and air direction

- deactivation of electrical circuits, if not provided with ground-fault circuit interrupters.

Planning the Project

The standard requires that an exposure assessment be conducted before the asbestos job is begun WAC 296-62-07709(3). Information needed for that assessment, includes data relating to prior similar jobs, as applied to the specific variables of the current job. The information needed to conduct the assessment will be useful in planning the project, and in complying with any reporting requirements under this standard, when significant changes are being made to a control system listed in the standard, (see WAC 296-62-07719), as well as those of USEPA (40 CFR Part 61, subpart M). Thus, although the standard does not explicitly require the preparation of a written asbestos removal plan, the usual constituents of such a plan, i.e., a description of the enclosure, the equipment, and the procedures to be used throughout the project, must be determined before the enclosure can be erected. The following information should be included in the planning of the system:

A physical description of the work area;

A description of the approximate amount of material to be removed;

A schedule for turning off and sealing existing ventilation systems;

Personnel hygiene procedures;

A description of personal protective equipment and clothing to be worn by employees;

A description of the local exhaust ventilation systems to be used and how they are to be tested;

A description of work practices to be observed by employees;

An air monitoring plan;

A description of the method to be used to transport waste material; and

The location of the dump site.

Materials and Equipment Necessary for Asbestos Removal

Although individual asbestos removal projects vary in terms of the equipment required to accomplish the removal of the materials, some equipment and materials are common to most asbestos removal operations.

Plastic sheeting used to protect horizontal surfaces, seal HVAC openings or to seal vertical openings and ceilings should have a minimum thickness of 6 mils. Tape or other adhesive used to attach plastic sheeting should be of sufficient adhesive strength to support the weight of the material plus all stresses encountered during the entire duration of the project without becoming detached from the surface.

Other equipment and materials which should be available at the beginning of each project are:

- HEPA Filtered Vacuum is essential for cleaning the work area after the asbestos has been removed. It should have a long hose capable of reaching out-of-the-way places, such as areas above ceiling tiles, behind pipes, etc.

- Portable air ventilation systems installed to provide the negative air pressure and air removal from the enclosure must be equipped with a HEPA filter. The number and capacity of units required to ventilate an enclosure depend on the size of the area to be ventilated. The filters for these systems should be designed in such a manner that they can be replaced when the air flow volume is reduced by the build-up of dust in the filtration material. Pressure monitoring devices with alarms and strip chart recorders attached to each system to indicate the pressure differential and the loss due to dust buildup on the filter are recommended.

- Water sprayers should be used to keep the asbestos material as saturated as possible during removal; the sprayers will provide a fine mist that minimizes the impact of the spray on the material.

- Water used to saturate the asbestos containing material can be amended by adding at least 15 milliliters ( ounce) of wetting agent in 1 liter (1 pint) of water. An example of a wetting agent is a 50/50 mixture of polyoxyethylene ether and polyoxyethylene polyglycol ester.

- Backup power supplies are recommended, especially for ventilation systems.

- Shower and bath water should be with mixed hot and cold water faucets. Water that has been used to clean personnel or equipment should either be filtered or be collected and discarded as asbestos waste. Soap and shampoo should be provided to aid in removing dust from the workers' skin and hair.

- See WAC 296-62-07715 and 296-62-07717 for appropriate respiratory protection and protective clothing.

- See WAC 296-62-07721 for required signs and labels.

Preparing the Work Area

Disabling HVAC Systems: The power to the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems that service the restricted area must be deactivated and locked off. All ducts, grills, access ports, windows and vents must be sealed off with two layers of plastic to prevent entrainment of contaminated air.

Operating HVAC Systems in the Restricted Area: If components of a HVAC system located in the restricted area are connected to a system that will service another zone during the project, the portion of the duct in the restricted area must be sealed and pressurized. Necessary precautions include caulking the duct joints, covering all cracks and openings with two layers of sheeting, and pressurizing the duct throughout the duration of the project by restricting the return air flow. The power to the fan supplying the positive pressure should be locked "on" to prevent pressure loss.

Sealing Elevators: If an elevator shaft is located in the restricted area, it should be either shut down or isolated by sealing with two layers of plastic sheeting. The sheeting should provide enough slack to accommodate the pressure changes in the shaft without breaking the air-tight seal.

Removing Mobile Objects: All movable objects should be cleaned and removed from the work area before an enclosure is constructed unless moving the objects creates a hazard. Mobile objects will be assumed to be contaminated and should be either cleaned with amended water and a HEPA vacuum and then removed from the area or wrapped and then disposed of as hazardous waste.

Cleaning and Sealing Surfaces: After cleaning with water and a HEPA vacuum, surfaces of stationary objects should be covered with two layers of plastic sheeting. The sheeting should be secured with duct tape or an equivalent method to provide a tight seal around the object.

Bagging Waste: In addition to the requirement for immediate bagging of waste for disposal, it is further recommended that the waste material be double-bagged and sealed in plastic bags designed for asbestos disposal. The bags should be stored in a waste storage area that can be controlled by the workers conducting the removal. Filters removed from air handling units and rubbish removed from the area are to be bagged and handled as hazardous waste.

Constructing the Enclosure

The enclosure should be constructed to provide an air-tight seal around ducts and openings into existing ventilation systems and around penetrations for electrical conduits, telephone wires, water lines, drain pipes, etc. Enclosures should be both airtight and watertight except for those openings designed to provide entry and/or air flow control.

Size: An enclosure should be the minimum volume to encompass all of the working surfaces yet allow unencumbered movement by the worker(s), provide unrestricted air flow past the worker(s), and ensure walking surfaces can be kept free of tripping hazards.

Shape: The enclosure may be any shape that optimizes the flow of ventilation air past the worker(s).

Structural Integrity: The walls, ceilings and floors must be supported in such a manner that portions of the enclosure will not fall down during normal use.

Openings: It is not necessary that the structure be airtight; openings may be designed to direct air flow. Such openings should be located at a distance from active removal operations. They should be designed to draw air into the enclosure under all anticipated circumstances. In the event that negative pressure is lost, they should be fitted with either HEPA filters to trap dust or automatic trap doors that prevent dust from escaping the enclosure. Openings for exits should be controlled by an airlock or a vestibule.

Barrier Supports: Frames should be constructed to support all unsupported spans of sheeting.

Sheeting: Walls, barriers, ceilings, and floors should be lined with two layers of plastic sheeting having a thickness of at least 6 mil.

Seams: Seams in the sheeting material should be minimized to reduce the possibilities of accidental rips and tears in the adhesive or connections. All seams in the sheeting should overlap, be staggered and not be located at corners or wall-to-floor joints.

Areas Within an Enclosure: Each enclosure consists of a work area, a decontamination area, and waste storage area. The work area where the asbestos removal operations occur should be separated from both the waste storage area and the contamination control area by physical curtains, doors, and/or airflow patterns that force any airborne contamination back into the work area.

See WAC 296-62-07719 for requirements for hygiene facilities.

During egress from the work area, each worker should step into the equipment room, clean tools and equipment, and remove gross contamination from clothing by wet cleaning and HEPA vacuuming. Before entering the shower area, foot coverings, head coverings, hand coverings, and coveralls are removed and placed in impervious bags for disposal or cleaning. Airline connections from airline respirators with HEPA disconnects and power cables from powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs) will be disconnected just prior to entering the shower room.

Establishing Negative Pressure Within the Enclosure

Negative Pressure: Air is to be drawn into the enclosure under all anticipated conditions and exhausted through a HEPA filter for 24 hours a day during the entire duration of the project.

Air Flow Tests: Air flow patterns will be checked before removal operations begin, at least once per operating shift and any time there is a question regarding the integrity of the enclosure. The primary test for air flow is to trace air currents with smoke tubes or other visual methods. Flow checks are made at each opening and at each doorway to demonstrate that air is being drawn into the enclosure and at each worker's position to show that air is being drawn away from the breathing zone.

Monitoring Pressure Within the Enclosure: After the initial air flow patterns have been checked, the static pressure must be monitored within the enclosure. Monitoring may be made using manometers, pressure gauges, or combinations of these devices. It is recommended that they be attached to alarms and strip chart recorders at points identified by the design engineer.

Corrective Actions: If the manometers or pressure gauges demonstrate a reduction in pressure differential below the required level, work should cease and the reason for the change investigated and appropriate changes made. The air flow patterns should be retested before work begins again.

Pressure Differential: The design parameters for static pressure differentials between the inside and outside of enclosures typically range from 0.02 to 0.10 inches of water gauge, depending on conditions. All zones inside the enclosure must have less pressure than the ambient pressure outside of the enclosure (-0.02 inches water gauge differential). Design specifications for the differential vary according to the size, configuration, and shape of the enclosure as well as ambient and mechanical air pressure conditions around the enclosure.

Air Flow Patterns: The flow of air past each worker shall be enhanced by positioning the intakes and exhaust ports to remove contaminated air from the worker's breathing zone, by positioning HEPA vacuum cleaners to draw air from the worker's breathing zone, by forcing relatively uncontaminated air past the worker toward an exhaust port, or by using a combination of methods to reduce the worker's exposure.

Air Handling Unit Exhaust: The exhaust plume from air handling units should be located away from adjacent personnel and intakes for HVAC systems.

Air Flow Volume: The air flow volume (cubic meters per minute) exhausted (removed) from the workplace must exceed the amount of makeup air supplied to the enclosure. The rate of air exhausted from the enclosure should be designed to maintain a negative pressure in the enclosure and air movement past each worker. The volume of air flow removed from the enclosure should replace the volume of the container at every 5 to 15 minutes. Air flow volume will need to be relatively high for large enclosures, enclosures with awkward shapes, enclosures with multiple openings, and operations employing several workers in the enclosure.

Air Flow Velocity: At each opening, the air flow velocity must visibly "drag" air into the enclosure. The velocity of air flow within the enclosure must be adequate to remove airborne contamination from each worker's breathing zone without disturbing the asbestos-containing material on surfaces.

Airlocks: Airlocks are mechanisms on doors and curtains that control the air flow patterns in the doorways. If air flow occurs, the patterns through doorways must be such that the air flows toward the inside of the enclosure. Sometimes vestibules, double doors, or double curtains are used to prevent air movement through the doorways. To use a vestibule, a worker enters a chamber by opening the door or curtain and then closing the entry before opening the exit door or curtain.

Airlocks should be located between the equipment room and shower room, between the shower room and the clean room, and between the waste storage area and the outside of the enclosure. The air flow between adjacent rooms must be checked using smoke tubes or other visual tests to ensure the flow patterns draw air toward the work area without producing eddies.

Monitoring for Airborne Concentrations

In addition to the breathing zone samples taken as outlined in WAC 296-62-07709, samples of air should be taken to demonstrate the integrity of the enclosure, the cleanliness of the clean room and shower area, and the effectiveness of the HEPA filter. If the clean room is shown to be contaminated, the room must be relocated to an uncontaminated area.

Samples taken near the exhaust of portable ventilation systems must be done with care.

General Work Practices

Preventing dust dispersion is the primary means of controlling the spread of asbestos within the enclosure. Whenever practical, the point of removal should be isolated, enclosed, covered, or shielded from the workers in the area. Waste asbestos containing materials must be bagged during or immediately after removal; the material must remain saturated until the waste container is sealed.

Waste material with sharp points or corners must be placed in hard air-tight containers rather than bags.

Whenever possible, large components should be sealed in plastic sheeting and removed intact.

Bags or containers of waste will be moved to the waste holding area, washed, and wrapped in a bag with the appropriate labels.

Cleaning the Work Area

Surfaces within the work area should be kept free of visible dust and debris to the extent feasible. Whenever visible dust appears on surfaces, the surfaces within the enclosure must be cleaned by wiping with a wet sponge, brush, or cloth and then vacuumed with a HEPA vacuum.

All surfaces within the enclosure should be cleaned before the exhaust ventilation system is deactivated and the enclosure is disassembled. An approved encapsulant may be sprayed onto areas after the visible dust has been removed.

[Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 94-15-096 (Order 94-07), 296-62-07751, filed 7/20/94, effective 9/20/94; 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), 296-62-07751, filed 11/30/87.]

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending Order 89-10, filed 10/10/89, effective 11/24/89)

WAC 296-62-07753 Appendix J--((~~Work practices and engineering controls for small-scale, short-duration asbestos renovation and maintenance activities~~)) Polarized light microscopy of asbestos--Nonmandatory. ((This appendix is not mandatory, in that employers may choose to comply with all of the requirements of WISHA's standard for occupational exposure to asbestos during construction activities, WAC 296-62-077 through 296-62-07753. However, employers wishing to be exempted from the requirements of WAC 296-62-07712 shall comply with the provisions of this appendix when performing small-scale, short-duration renovation or maintenance operations. WISHA anticipates that employers in the electrical, carpentry, utility, plumbing, and interior construction trades may wish to avail themselves of the final standard's exemptions for small-scale, short-duration renovation and maintenance activities.

~~(1) Definition of small-scale, short-duration activities. For the purposes of this appendix, small-scale, short-duration renovation and maintenance activities are tasks such as, but not limited to:~~

~~Removal of asbestos-containing insulation on pipes;~~

~~Removal of small quantities of asbestos-containing insulatio~~