The selection of response actions are based on the following factors:
- physical assessment of ACM
- safety of building occupants
- cost effectiveness
- future building plans
AHERA defines the appropriate response action as being “the least burdensome method which protects human health and the environment.”AHERA also points out that any response action other than removal is only temporary and that removal is the ultimate goal.
| RESPONSE ACTIONS AND CODES | CODE RESPONSE ACTION AND DEFINITION |
|
1 Removal |
The physical removal of ACM from a building and disposal thereof in accordance with all applicable regulations by means of scraping, vacuuming, etc. |
|
2 Encapsulation |
The Treatment of ACM with a material that surrounds or embeds asbestos fibers in an adhesive matrix to prevent the release of fibers, as the encapsulant creates a membrane over the surface (bridging encapsulant) or penetrated the material and binds it’s components together (penetrating encapsulant). |
|
3 Enclosure |
The construction or installation over or around the ACM of any solid or flexible coverings, which will not deteriorate or decompose for an extended period of time, so as to conceal the material, contain all asbestos fibers and render the ACM in accessible. |
|
4 Repair |
Return friable ACM to a condition where it is not friable. |