What is the primary purpose of flaps or curtain doorways in asbestos abatement?

The primary purpose of flaps or curtain doorways in asbestos abatement is to restrict air movement. By controlling the airflow between contaminated and uncontaminated areas, these barriers help contain asbestos fibers and minimize the risk of exposure to workers and the environment. This containment is critical in abatement operations to ensure that any airborne particles are limited to the work area and do not spread further, thereby protecting both the workers involved and the surrounding community.

In the context of abatement practices, while security or visibility might be considerations in other situations, they do not directly relate to the specialized needs of asbestos removal. Furthermore, while flaps or curtain doorways do create a passageway, the primary intent is to manage the airflow effectively to prevent contamination rather than simply providing access. Therefore, restricting air movement is the key function that directly supports safe asbestos abatement practices.