Asbestos exposure
Training program standard

SAFE Work Manitoba has made reasonable attempts to confirm the accuracy of the 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 due to reliance on information in this document alone. Manitoba employers must comply with the Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Act and Regulation, which may be amended occasionally.

1. Training standard topic

Asbestos exposure

2. Purpose

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

• knowledge of legislative requirements pertaining to asbestos work, including worker, supervisor and employer responsibilities
• knowledge of evaluating the potential for asbestos contamination of a work area and its surroundings, while recognizing the hazards and risks associated with activities that can expose workers to asbestos-containing material (ACM), types of asbestos abatement work and the required control measures
• understanding of the safe work procedures for planned and emergency asbestos work
• knowledge of safety and personal protective equipment to be used when exposed to and when handling ACMs

The training is intended for contractors, maintenance personnel or other workers who actively work near ACMs but not with ACMs.

The asbestos exposure training program outlines minimum requirements for developing and delivering asbestos exposure training programs in Manitoba. It was developed in consideration of the Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Act and Regulation and Canada Labour Code Part II.

NOTE:

1. This training standard does not include details on sampling procedures or how to develop an inventory;
2. Respirator training and fit testing must be successfully completed before the asbestos exposure training is taken, as per CSAZ94.4-11 or the most current revision cited in the Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Act and Regulation.

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 and the Accessibility for Manitobans Act. The delivery method must also 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: 12
• Practical module: 6

The asbestos exposure basic theory module must be completed before the asbestos exposure practical module is taken.

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

5.1 Asbestos exposure basic theory module

5.1.1 Legal requirement

Content includes:

• specific legislative requirements pertaining to asbestos 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 Regulation and/or Canada Labour Code Part II, as applicable, pertaining to asbestos work in the workplace
• explain the legal duties and responsibilities of the employer, supervisor and worker as they relate to asbestos work in the workplace
• describe workers’ rights as they relate to asbestos work in the workplace
• reference and access various resource documents related to asbestos work

5.1.2 Asbestos types, sources and use

Content includes:

• an overview of the different types of asbestos encountered in Manitoba and their use in various industry sectors
• an outline of different sources of asbestos or ACMs in the workplace

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

• explain the different types of asbestos and their use
• identify the different sources of asbestos or ACMs in workplaces

5.1.3 Identification and assessment of asbestos work hazards

Content must include:

• an overview of the various hazards of asbestos in workplaces with a focus on various health effects
• an overview of the means and severity of asbestos exposure, including but not limited to inhalation, dermal and ingestion
• an overview of the additive properties and impact of smoking on the risk of asbestos-related illness
• an overview of the job hazard analysis process for identifying and assessing hazards
• a list of criteria for evaluating the potential for asbestos contamination of the work area and its surroundings
• a description of high-, moderate- and low-risk asbestos abatement work (i.e., type 3, 2 or 1 work)

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

• list and identify the common hazards associated with exposure to asbestos-containing material
• describe the chronic health effects and various illnesses associated with exposure to asbestos
• explain the impact of asbestos fibers on lung tissue
• explain additive properties as they relate to asbestos
• describe the combined health effects of smoking and asbestos exposure
• identify criteria for evaluating the potential for asbestos contamination of the work area and its surroundings
• differentiate between high-, moderate- and low-risk asbestos abatement work
• describe the importance of, and steps for, conducting a job hazard analysis

5.1.4 Asbestos inventory

Content must include:

• a detailed description of the importance and legal requirements of an asbestos inventory, including the key content details, documentation and periodic inspection of an asbestos inventory

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

• describe the steps that must be taken when a site is suspected of containing ACMs
• state the purpose, importance and legal requirements of an asbestos inventory
• recognize and understand key details that must be included in a well-developed asbestos inventory
• describe the requirements for documentation of the asbestos inventory
• explain the importance of, and requirements for, periodic inspections of ACMs

5.1.5 Control of hazards due to asbestos exposure 

Content includes:

• an overview of the hierarchy of controls and different types of control measures to eliminate or reduce the risk associated with asbestos, including but not limited to a control plan, asbestos sampling, dust control and containment
• an overview of the importance and requirements of an asbestos control plan, including the key elements, labelling and signage
• an overview of the criteria to determine the condition of ACMs, including steps to take in case of damaged condition
• a description of the requirements for safe work procedures for exposure to asbestos-containing material
• an overview of emergency situations related to asbestos, such as fire, injury, breach in containment and steps to take in various emergency situations when working near ACMs
• understand the importance of communicating control measures in the workplace

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

• describe various control measures to eliminate or reduce the risk associated with asbestos
• state the purpose, importance and legal requirements of an asbestos control plan
• recognize the required elements of an asbestos control plan
• describe the requirements for labels and signage for identification of ACMs
• recognize the condition of ACMs and its relation to the asbestos inventory and control plan
• describe the steps to be taken if ACMs are discovered in damaged condition
• explain the importance of and need for safe work procedures for exposure to asbestos-containing material
• explain the requirements of site-specific safe work procedures for exposure to asbestos-containing material
• identify training requirements for personnel involved with exposure to asbestos-containing material
• describe various emergency situations and appropriate emergency plans if these occur while working near asbestos
• describe the importance of communication of asbestos control measures in the workplace to applicable interested parties

5.1.6 Asbestos sampling

Content must include:

• a description of how to take a grab bulk sample
• a description of how to interpret test results
• an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a subject matter expert pertaining to asbestos 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 grab bulk sample
• interpret test results
• explain the roles and responsibilities of a subject matter expert pertaining to asbestos sampling

5.1.7 Personal protective equipment

Content must include:

• an overview of personal protective equipment (PPE) required when potentially exposed to asbestos-containing materials
• an overview of the use, care, storage, maintenance, inspection and limitations of personal protective equipment
• an overview of how respiratory protective devices are selected, used and maintained

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

• identify common personal protective equipment requirements when potentially exposed to asbestos-containing materials
• recognize the importance of using, maintaining and inspecting PPE
• select the applicable PPE to use when potentially exposed to asbestos-containing materials
• identify respirator fit-testing requirements
• recognize the limitations, advantages and disadvantages of half-face air-purifying respirators
• recall the required documentation for PPE

5.2.1 Practical module

In this additional training module, participants will simulate exposure to asbestos-containing materials in actual predetermined scenarios.

The practical module must include:

• selection of appropriate PPE required during practical exercise
• inspection and identification of damaged PPE
• proper use, storage and maintenance of PPE
• proper fit testing of respirators
• proper don and doff of typical respirators, user seal checks, visual checks and maintenance (e.g., changing a filter or valve)
• proper don and doff of other protective equipment
• safe grab sampling of asbestos containing material

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:

• identify the correct and appropriate PPE to use when exposed to asbestos
• inspect PPE for any damage
• demonstrate proper use, storage and maintenance of PPE
• demonstrate proper fit testing of respirators
• demonstrate proper don and doff of typical respirators
• demonstrate proper don and doff of protective equipment
• demonstrate safe grab sampling of asbestos-containing material

6. Resource material

The asbestos exposure 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. They 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 Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Act and Regulation requirements, 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 may be used for the delivery of the practical module.

Personal protective equipment:

• half-mask respirator (properly sized and fit-tested for the learner)
• gloves
• safety footwear
• eye and hearing protection
• hard hat
• goggles

Ratio of equipment available to learner shall be 1:1

Additional equipment:

• sample bags

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

7.2 Other 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. Various types of respirators other than what is supplied for practical

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

7.3 Damaged equipment

Damaged equipment may be used in the delivery of the practical module so that learners can inspect the equipment and identify damage:

• 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. The instructor and/or evaluator must have a variety of evaluation methods 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, where applicable

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

8.2 Evaluation of demonstration learning outcomes

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

9. Validation/refresher requirements

Learners who have successfully completed an approved training program must periodically refresh their training 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 three years from the successful completion of the asbestos exposure basic theory module and the asbestos exposure 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 successfully completing the training of the asbestos exposure basic theory module and asbestos exposure practical module.

Glossary

General terms

Asynchronous instruction (ASTD)

A general term used to describe forms of education, instruction and learning that do not occur in the same place or at the same time. It uses resources that facilitate information sharing outside the constraints of time and place among a network of people.

Blended learning
Describes the practice of using several training delivery mediums in a single training program and typically refers to the combination of classroom instruction and eLearning.

Distance learning

An educational situation in which the instructor and students are separated by time, location or both. Education or training courses are delivered to remote locations via synchronous or ASTD.

eLearning (electronic learning)

A term covering a wide set of applications and processes that includes web-based learning, computer-based learning, virtual classrooms and digital collaboration.

Face-to-face training

Usually refers to traditional classroom training in which an instructor teaches a course to a room of training participants. The term is used synonymously with on-site training, classroom training and instructor-led training (slightly modified from ASTD definition).

Module

A unit of instruction that can be measured, evaluated for change, assembled to form complete courses or bypassed as a whole, and that is usually intended to teach one or a group of skills or areas of knowledge (slightly modified from ASTD definition).

Evaluator

A person who evaluates learners.

Instructor

A person who delivers training programs.

Qualification

A skill, quality or attribute that makes somebody suitable for a job, activity or task.

Asbestos exposure terms

Abatement

Procedures to encapsulate, enclose or remove asbestos-containing material.

ACM (asbestos-containing material)

• A friable material containing 0.1 per cent or greater asbestos
• A non-friable material containing 1.0 per cent or greater asbestos
• Vermiculite insulation that contains asbestos

Asbestos

A generic name given to a number of commercially significant, naturally occurring hydrated mineral silicates. These silicates are incombustible, separate into sub-light microscopic fibres and have a unique crystalline structure. Asbestos may be found as the fibrous form of crocidolite, amosite, chrysotile, anthophyllite, actinolite, tremolite or a mixture containing any of these minerals

Contaminated item

Any object that has been exposed to airborne asbestos fibres without being sealed off, isolated or cleaned.

Fibre

A particle that is at least five microns long and has a length-to-width ratio equal to or greater than 3:1

Grab bulk sample

Rudimentary collection of suspected ACM debris from horizontal or vertical surfaces without the use of hand tools

Respirator

Personal protective equipment that protects a worker against the inhalation of airborne contaminants, providing it is the correct type of respirator and is fitted, used and maintained in accordance with the CSA Z94.4-11 or most current revision.

Acknowledgements statement

The asbestos working group has developed an Asbestos Exposure Training Program Standard that outlines the minimum requirements for program objectives, training requirements and learning outcomes that are designed to educate Manitoba workers on working in compliance.

Please note that while reasonable efforts have been made to ensure the criteria of the training program standard are met, employers are responsible for ensuring compliance with training requirements under the Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Act and Regulation. In determining what rights or obligations a party may have under the province’s legislation, reference should always be made to the official version of the WSH Act and WSH Regulation.

Published: July 2023