Common Safety Orientation (CSO) Practice Test

Who is allowed to handle asbestos containing materials?

1. Anyone with minimal training

2. Only properly trained workers

3. Workers with supervisor permission

4. All facility employees

The correct answer is: Only properly trained workers

The correct choice is that only properly trained workers are allowed to handle asbestos-containing materials. This is crucial because asbestos is a highly hazardous material that can pose serious health risks, including lung disease and cancer, when its fibers are released into the air and inhaled. Proper training ensures that workers are knowledgeable about the safe handling, usage, and disposal of asbestos. They learn about the potential dangers, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and proper procedures for containment and remediation. This specialized training also covers regulatory requirements and safety protocols necessary to minimize exposure risks to themselves and others on the worksite. In contrast, allowing individuals with minimal training, those without specific training who have supervisor permission, or all facility employees to handle these materials could lead to unsafe practices and increase the risk of asbestos exposure. This approach lacks the systematic understanding of the hazards involved, making it imperative that only those who have undergone comprehensive training are entrusted with such responsibilities.