The removal, encapsulation or enclosure of asbestos to reduce airborne concentrations is called which of the following?

• A. Asbestos Abatement
• B. Asbestos Containment
• C. Asbestos Encapsulation
• D. Asbestos Mitigation

Answer: (A)

Abatement is the overall process of reducing or eliminating asbestos exposure by removing or containing asbestos-containing materials. It includes actions like removal, encapsulation (sealing fibers to prevent release), and enclosure (building a barrier around the material) to keep airborne fibers down. Because these are all methods aimed at lowering airborne concentrations, the umbrella term that covers them all is asbestos abatement. The other terms refer to specific methods or broader concepts: encapsulation is just one technique, containment/enclosure is a particular strategy, and mitigation is a broader, less specific term for reducing hazards. In practice, abatement projects are carried out by licensed professionals using controlled procedures to protect workers and occupants.