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Asbestos inventory development
Training program standard

​​​SAFE Work Manitoba has made reasonable attempts to confirm the accuracy of information contained in this document. However, this document is intended for general information purposes only. SAFE Work Manitoba shall not assume responsibility or liability for actions taken or not taken as a result of reliance on information in this document alone. Manitoba employers must comply with the Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Act and Regulation, as may be amended from time to time.

 

1. Training standard topic

Asbestos inventory development  

 

​2. Purpose

The purpose of the asbestos inventory development training program is to provide learners with:

  • knowledge on how to conduct a survey and develop an inventory for asbestos-containing materials (ACMS)
  • knowledge of legislative requirements pertaining to asbestos sampling
  • understanding of the sampling requirements and safe work procedures for  sampling
  • knowledge of how to effectively take a representative (bulk) sample for ACMS
  • knowledge of evaluating the condition of the ACMS
  • knowledge of evaluating the potential for asbestos contamination of a work area and its surroundings, while recognizing the hazards and risks associated with surveying and sampling activities that can expose workers to ACMS
  • knowledge of safety and personal protective equipment to be used when exposed to and when handling ACMS

The training is intended for service providers who are collecting samples for the purpose of developing an inventory.

The asbestos inventory development training program outlines minimum requirements for the development and delivery of asbestos inventory development training programs in Manitoba. It was developed in consideration of the Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Act and Regulations MR217/2006 and/or Occupational Health and Safety Regulations SOR/86-304.

Note:

  1. Asbestos awareness training must be completed before asbestos inventory development training is taken.
  2. It is required to have respirator training along with respirator fit testing as per CSAZ94.4-11 or most current revision cited in the Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Act and Regulationsuccessfully completed before the asbestos inventory development training is taken.

3. ​​Design

The design of the training program must meet the following criteria:

  • compliance with adult learning principles:
    1. ensure learners know why they need to learn specific content and its relevance to their workplaces
    2. relate training to learners’ own experiences when simulating workplace scenarios
    3. challenge and engage learners using a variety of activities that allow opportunities for participation, feedback and interaction
    4. recognize the limits of attention spans and apply techniques to address the various ways that adults learn
    5. use realistic activities and tools to support the transfer of learning to the workplace
  • use language that is appropriate for all learners
  • provide content that is accurate and current
  • include references to legal and technical information
  • use a variety of technical teaching aids
  • provide learner materials that follow the principles of instructional writing and good graphic design;
  • be consistent with provincial and federal legal requirements

4. ​Delivery

Regardless of the delivery method, all Endorsed Training programs must meet the requirements of this standard, along with the Accessibility for Manitobans Act,, and the delivery method must be reasonable and practicable to support the learner’s ability to attain the applicable learning outcomes.

4.1 ​​Face-to-face learning

 The following is the maximum ratio of learners to instructor:

  • Basic theory module: 12:1
  • Practical module: 12:1

 The following are the minimum hours for training delivery:

  • Basic theory module: 7
  • Practical module: 3.5

The timing for delivery of this training program may be extended for various reasons, such as the amount of equipment available for demonstration of learning outcomes, instructor experience and/or learning needs of the training participants.

​4.2 Distance ​learning

Distance learning includes training via a live video link; a plan for interactivity with a qualified instructor should be developed and available.

​​This type of learning is acceptable for:

  • Basic theory module

5. ​Learning outcomes

Employers will need to supplement any training program that meets the requirements of this training program standard with additional information, instruction and training in workplace-specific policies and procedures, and workplace-specific hazards and equipment related to asbestos inventory development.

5.1 Asbestos inventory development basic theory module

​5.1.1 ​Legal requirement

Content must include:

  • specific legislative requirements pertaining to asbestos inventory and sampling work, including worker, supervisor and employer responsibilities; notification to Workplace Safety and Health and the Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba; serious incidents; and control requirements
  • an overview of the legislative documents and additional available resources on asbestos work and how to access them

At the end of this module, learners will be able to:

  • identify parts in the Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Act and Regulations MR217/2006 and/or Occupational Health and Safety Regulations SOR/86-304, as applicable, pertaining to asbestos work in the workplace, including asbestos inventory, sampling and reporting
  • explain the legal duties and responsibilities of the employer, supervisor and worker as they relate to work involving asbestos in the workplace
  • describe workers’ rights as they relate to asbestos inventory and sampling work in the workplace
  • reference and access various resource documents related to asbestos inventory and sampling work

​5.1.2 Asbestos surveys and activities

Content must include:

  • an overview of asbestos surveys including but not limited to the purpose, importance, intent, different types, such as baseline survey and pre-construction survey, and their limitations
  • an outline of asbestos surveying hazards, along with how to conduct a risk assessment
  • an overview of an asbestos control plan, including how to develop, apply and communicate the plan
  • an overview of asbestos related work activities and sampling activities

At the end of this module, learners will be able to:

  • describe the purpose and importance of asbestos surveys
  • explain the different types of surveys
  • review historical documents of the building
  • review construction on-site, as appropriate (note: this should be done in conjunction with someone who knows the work being performed, not alone.)
  • identify hazards and conduct a risk assessment for sampling activities
  • select appropriate personal protective equipment when sampling asbestos
  • develop safe work procedures based on identified hazards and risk assessment results for sampling activities
  • develop an asbestos control plan
  • communicate the safe work procedures including asbestos control plan to the appropriate parties
  • apply the asbestos control plan to control exposure to identified risks
  • develop a sampling strategy in accordance with the best practice sampling methods to identify ACMS and potential ACMS
  • determine and document scope, intent and limitations of sampling strategy in consultation with appropriate parties
  • recognize when destructive testing is or is not required and identify what to do in either situation
  • recognize suspect materials that may contain ACMS
  • explain basic construction methods and materials, and the condition materials are in
  • identify types of materials included in a building depending on the era in which it was built
  • classify asbestos containing materials including type, percentage and friability
  • describe the requirements to develop an inventory
  • distinguish between a partial demolition (alteration) or demolition (renovation) survey and an asbestos inventory, along with the required sampling for each
  • define the scope of surveying
  • identify appropriate tools and analytical methods for sampling activities
  • interpret scope and/or building plans/blueprints
  • determine whether other worker’s safety or structural integrity of the building is impacted on worksite from sampling activities

5.1.3 Start of survey work

Content must include:

  • an overview to understand homogeneous areas, sampling requirements, and the rationale for presumed ACMS or exclusions
  • an overview of safe work procedures/precautions for safe sampling and hazard control measures

At the end of this module, learners will be able to:

  • explain a walkthrough inspection
  • determine homogenous areas of a given building material and the number of samples required for confirmation of ACM status
  • document the rationale when presuming a given material contains asbestos and not collecting samples (e.g., where removing putties, mastics, or roofing material may damage the structure)
  • describe any materials and/or building areas that are presumed not to contain asbestos, with supporting rationale for not collecting samples (e.g., recently renovated areas)
  • recognize retrofitting renovations and repairs, and account for this in the survey or sampling plan
  • describe the precautions to reduce the spread of asbestos when sampling (e.g., use of drop sheets, partial containment)
  • determine control measures based on a hazard assessment (e.g., potential of disturbed site)
  • identify the correct location to retrieve a sample for testing
  • produce drawings of sample locations

5.1.4 Sampling

Content must include:

  • An overview of the need and requirements for taking a  bulk sample including all the components associated with sampling.

At the end of this module, learners will be able to:

  • describe the need to take a sample
  • explain the requirements for taking a bulk sample including collection precautions and leaving the sample location in a safe condition
  • evaluate competently, the homogeneity of the material prior to sampling
  • determine sampling quality and quantity standards
  • document sample material and location
  • explain how to sample vermiculite in accordance with acceptable methods
  • identify any suspected ACM debris and communicate with the owner before the report is issued
  • describe the condition of the material that was sampled, including quantity and dimensions of building material accessibility, as per best practice
  • identify contamination risks
  • identify the extent of pre-existing contamination
  • explain packaging requirements to mitigate asbestos exposure
  • explain the process required for shipping of samples
  • recognize the possibility of spillage associated with shipping and handling
  • explain the chain-of-custody process defined by the Lab
  • explain different analytical methods
  • explain the importance of quality assurance and quality control specific to laboratory analysis

5.1.5 Reporting

Content must include:

  • an overview of sampling and analysis methods and assessment of lab reports
  • an overview of report components including defining the scope and making recommendations

At the end of this module, learners will be able to:

  • define the scope of work and limitation of responsibility
  • understand bulk sample lab results
  • recognize asbestos containing materials (acms) as materials that are:
    • 1 per cent, or greater, asbestos in a friable material
    • 1 per cent, or greater, asbestos in non-friable material
    • vermiculite insulation that contains asbestos
  • identify additional analysis methods based on inconclusive results (e.g. trace)
  • recognize that previously used sampling and analysis methods may be different than current ones
  • assess lab reports for false positives or negatives (e.g. determine if quantity of samples was sufficient)
  • define the scope of a report including the nature of work, the purpose and the application
  • Interpret drawings
  • write a report including a clear description of the location, identity and condition of acms
  • communicate critical information clearly, including written and oral, with drawings and schematics as appropriate
  • make and communicate appropriate recommendations based on survey results

5.2.1 Asbestos inventory development practical modu​le

In this additional training module, participants will simulate collection of potential asbestos-containing materials in actual predetermined scenarios.

The practical module must include:

  • an overview of the asbestos control plan and methodology selection, considering safety of removal, other hazards, and presumptions about materials and risk level
  • an overview on the collection of bulk samples, labelling of locations and identifying abnormal site conditions and potentially damaged ACMS
  • a description of chain of custody and how to follow it appropriately
  • an overview on the use of proper packaging materials
  • an evaluation of homogeneity of the material being sampled
  • an overview on how to encapsulate  loose and/or damaged ends post sampling, repair any damage and clean up after the assessment
  • an overview on the proper use of tools applicable for the job, including maintenance and proper cleaning
  • an overview on the proper use, storage and maintenance of PPE

The practical skills outlined above are taught in a classroom session and must be demonstrated during practical training exercises.

​At the end of this module, learners will be able to:

  • perform a walk-through inspection
  • follow safe work procedures for sampling activities
  • demonstrate proper use, storage and maintenance of PPE
  • use judgement in methodology selection, considering safety of removal, other hazards and presumptions about materials and risk level
  • apply appropriate methods of analysis based on standards, regulations and other considerations
  • evaluate competently, the homogeneity of the material prior to sampling and demonstrate what to do when a non homogenous material is encountered
  • collect, store, and send a bulk sample properly, maintaining chain of custody.
  • repair/encapsulate damaged/loose cavities properly where sampling has taken place based on recognized occupational hygiene practices
  • demonstrate collection of bulk samples by applying sampling procedures based on assessment of locations and planned activities
  • select the proper tools and equipment for sampling and demonstrate proper use of tools and equipment appropriate for the task, with proper cleaning and maintenance in between sampling, including checking for asbestos
  • label sample locations
  • collect field notes
  • identify abnormal site conditions
  • identify and communicate any suspected ACM debris
  • follow the sample quantity and quality best practices for handling asbestos, avoiding cross-contamination of samples and preventing the spread of fibers during sampling
  • follow decontamination procedures for self and tools
  • follow the acceptable sample-handling process
  • encapsulate loose ends, repair damage and clean up after the assessment

​6. ​Resource material

The asbestos inventory development training program standard has material requirements for both learners and instructors.

The date and version number should be indicated on all resource materials, which include:

  • terms and definitions
  • job aids, evaluation tools and templates
  • copies of the applicable provincial or federal safety legislation
  • manufacturers’ instructions for equipment
  • participant and instructor manuals with copies of activities
  • instructor manual and lesson plan

 Learner materials will include:

  • ​learning objectives, agenda, training content and evaluation/testing

Instructor materials will include:

  • instructional methods, learning activities and lesson plan timing
  • detailed instructor manual and lesson plans, including all learning activities and audio-visual resources

7. ​Equipment

For the practical module, learners must have hands-on, practical experience and must be trained on the proper use, care and limitations of the applicable equipment, according to manufacturer specifications and what is listed below. The equipment provided must comply with the requirements of the Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Act and Regulation, such as meeting or exceeding the equipment specified in the National Standards of Canada and/or the Canadian Standards Association technical standards, as applicable.

​7.1 Equipment for demonstrating learning outcomes

The equipment listed below must be used for the delivery of the practical module.

Personal protective equipment:

  • Half-mask respirator (properly sized and fit-tested for the learner)
  • Gloves
  • Eye protection

 Ratio of equipment available to learner shall be 1:1.

Additional equipment:

  • Sample bags
  • Water
  • Hand tools

Ratio of above equipment available to learner shall be 1:3.

​7.2 Oth​er equipment

The equipment listed below may be used in the delivery of the practical module so that learners become familiar with the look and function of this equipment.

Equipment required:

  1. Asbestos specific sampling tools (e.g. coring tools)
  2. HEPA dust collection/vacuum
  3. Various types of respirators other than what is used for practical

Ratio of equipment available to learner shall be 1:12.

8. ​​Learner evaluation                  

The training program must include a plan for learner evaluation that meets the requirements below. There must be a variety of evaluation methods available to the instructor and/or evaluator that are appropriate to the learning outcomes.

8.1 ​Evaluation methods

The training program will include methods to evaluate whether key concepts have been understood by the learner using a variety of evaluation methods that are appropriate to the learning outcomes, including:

  • open discussion
  • group discussion
  • questions and answers
  • written and/or oral test

Evaluation methods must be clearly outlined in the evaluation plan, and the corresponding results must be documented by the evaluator.

In addition to the above, the training program must include a plan for learner evaluation that meets the requirements below:

  • There must be a competency exam at the end of the whole training program. The purpose of the competency exam is to verify that the key concepts are understood by the learner. The learner must achieve a minimum grade of 75 per cent to successfully complete the training program. After a learner has successfully completed the exam, the evaluator must review incorrect answers with the learner to successfully complete the training program;
  • Alternative evaluation methods may be used for learners with language, literacy or accommodation needs. These methods must be clearly outlined in the evaluation plan and the results must be documented by the evaluator.

8.2 ​Evaluation of demonstration learning outcomes

  1. Learning outcomes requiring demonstration must be performed satisfactorily in order to successfully complete the Practical Module;
  2. For learners with language, literacy or accommodation needs, alternative evaluation methods may be employed to verify satisfactory demonstration of learning outcome by the learner. These evaluation methods must be clearly outlined in the evaluation plan, and the corresponding results must be documented by the evaluator.

​​9. Validation/refresher requirements

Learners who have successfully completed an endorsed training program must periodically refresh their training in order to maintain its validity. This supports learners in maintaining their foundational knowledge and skills.

9.1 Validation/refresher requirements

Completion of both the basic theory module and practical module in accordance with the criteria set out in this standard and the training provider standard is required to confirm a successful training program has been completed.

​Training remains valid for a period of three years from the date of successful completion of the asbestos inventory development basic theory module and the asbestos inventory development practical module unless there is a change in regulations.

9.2 Refresher training

A worker’s training is re-validated for another three-year period after either successfully completing the training of the asbestos inventory development basic theory module and asbestos inventory development practical module or passing the competency exam for asbestos inventory development.