Which action is required if asbestos is discovered in construction materials at greater than 0.1%?

Which action is required if asbestos is discovered in construction materials at greater than 0.1%?

• A. Contact the local building department only after completion
• B. Contact DOSH immediately
• C. Do nothing unless advised by a lawyer
• D. Notify the owner and delay all work

Answer: (B)

When asbestos is found in construction materials above a very small threshold, protecting workers and the public becomes the priority. In California, Cal/OSHA requires that this finding be handled by the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) immediately. The reason is straightforward: asbestos fibers pose serious lung health risks, and actions must be taken right away to control exposure, assess the material, and arrange proper abatement by licensed professionals. That means stopping work in the affected area, securing the space, and notifying DOSH so they can guide the next steps.

Other options don’t address the regulatory requirement or the immediate safety need. Waiting until after construction is completed, doing nothing, or relying solely on legal counsel does not provide the necessary protection or the mandated reporting and coordination with the state safety agency. Notifying the owner is sensible, but it cannot replace the formal requirement to contact DOSH for proper handling and abatement.