Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) Certification Practice Exam

What is an acceptable type of container for collecting asbestos samples?

1. Glass jars

2. Plastic bags

3. Cardboard boxes

4. Steel containers

The correct answer is: Plastic bags

Plastic bags are an acceptable type of container for collecting asbestos samples primarily because they are lightweight, flexible, and resistant to moisture, which helps prevent contamination of the samples. They are designed to securely hold the samples without allowing them to escape, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the collected asbestos material during transport and analysis. When using plastic bags, it is important to ensure they are thick enough to prevent tearing and that they are properly sealed to avoid leakage. Additionally, they can be easily labeled to document the samples accurately for further testing. Other options such as glass jars, while they may seem suitable, can break easily and pose a risk of injury, thus making them less practical for transporting potentially hazardous materials. Cardboard boxes, on the other hand, may not provide a secure seal to prevent contamination or loss of sample integrity. Steel containers, while robust, may be unnecessarily heavy and cumbersome for carrying samples, complicating the handling process. Thus, plastic bags stand out as the most practical and effective choice for safely collecting and transporting asbestos samples.