What is considered the primary engineering control for asbestos activities?

The primary engineering control for asbestos activities is water, which is used primarily to suppress dust generation during asbestos removal or disturbance tasks. By wetting down asbestos-containing materials prior to handling, water reduces the likelihood of asbestos fibers becoming airborne, thereby minimizing exposure for workers and preventing contamination of the surrounding environment. This method not only aids in keeping the asbestos fibers bound to the material but also enhances the effectiveness of other safety measures.

While ventilation, containment systems, and dust suppression chemicals are important components of a comprehensive asbestos management strategy, they are not the primary control. Ventilation is utilized to limit exposure to airborne contaminants, but it does not prevent dust from being generated. Containment systems help in isolating work areas to prevent fiber spread, and dust suppression chemicals can assist in controlling dust, but neither is as fundamental as the application of water right at the point of disturbance. Thus, while all options can contribute to an effective asbestos safety program, water remains the most direct and crucial means of controlling asbestos hazards during handling and removal activities.