What is a prohibited method for cleaning asbestos-contaminated surfaces?

Using compressed air is considered a prohibited method for cleaning asbestos-contaminated surfaces because it can aerosolize asbestos fibers, spreading them into the air and increasing the risk of inhalation. Proper asbestos abatement techniques focus on containing and minimizing the disturbance of asbestos materials to protect health.

Methods like using a damp cloth or a HEPA vacuum are accepted practices because they are effective at capturing asbestos without releasing fibers into the air. A damp cloth helps to prevent the fibers from becoming airborne, while a HEPA vacuum is designed to trap small particles, including asbestos, effectively. Using a broom can also be problematic as it may disturb the asbestos material and generate dust, which can release fibers into the environment. Therefore, compressed air is strictly prohibited due to its potential to exacerbate the risk of asbestos exposure.