In handling ACM, what is the rule for determining the size of sections?

The principle that sections of asbestos-containing material (ACM) should be small enough to be handled easily is rooted in safety and practicality. When working with hazardous materials like asbestos, ensuring that the sections are manageable minimizes the risk of accidents and exposure during handling and removal processes.

Larger sections can be cumbersome and may pose a greater risk of breaking, which can release fibers into the air. By limiting the size to what can be comfortably and securely managed by workers, the potential for accidents is reduced, and the safety of the workers handling the material is significantly improved.

While options that specify maximum dimensions like 4 feet or 6 feet may present specific thresholds, they lack the nuance of emphasizing the importance of ease of handling. Additionally, uniformity in size does not necessarily contribute to safety and practicality in the same way that ensuring manageable sizes does. The focus on ease of handling addresses the variability in worker strength and experience, making it the most broadly applicable and safe guideline when dealing with ACM.