What regulatory framework governs asbestos management in the workplace?

The correct answer is that OSHA regulations govern asbestos management in the workplace. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established specific standards and regulations aimed at protecting workers from asbestos exposure. This includes permissible exposure limits, requirements for monitoring airborne asbestos levels, and mandates for training employees on hazards related to asbestos. OSHA's guidelines are integral to ensuring a safe work environment in settings where asbestos may be present, reflecting the federal government’s commitment to occupational safety and health.

While the EPA does provide guidelines that address asbestos, particularly concerning its environmental impact and public health concerns, it is OSHA that has the authority to enforce regulations directly related to worker safety in the presence of hazardous materials, including asbestos. Local building codes may also regulate construction practices but typically do not address the specific health and safety aspects concerning employee exposure to asbestos in the workplace. Similarly, the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) focuses on electrical safety and installation practices, not specifically on asbestos management.