What should be done to HVAC units during asbestos removal?

Shutting off and locking down HVAC units during asbestos removal is essential for safety and prevention of contamination. When asbestos is being disturbed, it can release fibers into the air, posing serious health risks to workers and anyone nearby. Keeping the HVAC system running would inadvertently circulate these harmful fibers throughout the building, exacerbating exposure risks.

Locking down the system ensures that no air is being pulled through the ducts, effectively preventing asbestos fibers from being spread to other areas of the structure. This containment measure safeguards the health of workers and occupants and assists in maintaining a controlled environment during the removal process.

While other options may seem like steps toward safety, they do not adequately prevent the distribution of asbestos fibers within the workspace, which is why shutting off and locking down the HVAC units is the most effective approach during asbestos removal activities.