ASTM E2394-11 (R2020)e1 PDF Download

The ASTM E2394-11 (R2020)e1 standard is titled "Standard Practice for Maintenance, Renovation, and Repair of Installed Asbestos Cement Products." This standard provides guidelines and work practices for safely handling asbestos-cement products during maintenance, renovation, and repair activities. It highlights the health risks associated with asbestos exposure, including the development of asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. The significance of this practice is emphasized by the extensive litigation and economic consequences related to asbestos hazards worldwide.

The standard acknowledges the global production and use of asbestos fiber, with consumption reported in various countries. It emphasizes the need to eliminate the use of all types of asbestos to prevent asbestos-related diseases. Asbestos-cement products, which are commonly used in construction, are of particular concern due to their potential to deteriorate and release asbestos fibers during activities such as alterations, maintenance, and demolition.

The practice outlines the importance of worker and community health protection, providing work practices that can be implemented in both developing and industrialized countries. It promotes the use of readily available tools, equipment, and supplies, without the need for highly-skilled tradesmen. The practice offers a foundation for building owners, construction workers, and government officials in developing contracts, tenders, and regulations to ensure compliance with safety measures.

The primary focus of the practice is on protecting the health of workers who perform maintenance, renovation, and repair operations on asbestos-cement products. However, it also recognizes the potential risk to other members of the community, such as residents, workers in the vicinity, and bystanders. By minimizing the risk to workers, the potential exposure to asbestos fibers for others is reduced.

Compliance with the provisions of this practice is encouraged voluntarily by employers to protect worker and community health and reduce liability. However, the existence of a regulatory infrastructure for occupational and community health is seen as crucial to enhancing compliance and reducing exposure to asbestos fibers. The practice suggests measures such as worker training, evidence of experience and resources, and incorporating its procedures within construction permits and contractual frameworks.

It should be noted that this practice does not address safety hazards unrelated to asbestos, such as falling through roof panels or electrical hazards from power tools. These safety hazards should be considered and controlled in accordance with employer policies and applicable regulations. The practice concludes with a warning regarding asbestos fibers as acknowledged carcinogens and advises compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements regarding asbestos.