Who must be sampled by your employer for asbestos exposure?

• A. Only supervisors
• B. Any employee that occupationally is exposed to asbestos
• C. Only new hires
• D. Only those with symptoms

Answer: (B)

Exposure monitoring is required for anyone who could be exposed to asbestos in their job. The employer must sample the air for asbestos when there is potential occupational exposure to determine the actual concentrations and to ensure they stay within the permissible exposure limits. This applies to all workers who might be exposed, not just supervisors, new hires, or people showing symptoms. Symptoms aren’t a reliable trigger for sampling because asbestos-related diseases can develop long after exposure and even small exposures over time matter. By monitoring, the employer can control exposures through engineering controls, work practices, and PPE, and keep records to prove compliance with the standards.