Definition
An evaluation of asbestos exposure potential based on material type, condition, location, accessibility, and likelihood of disturbance. Risk assessments assign priority ratings to ACMs, which in turn determine what action is needed: high-risk materials may require immediate removal; low-risk materials may be monitored in place.
See also:
Asbestos Management Plan
A building-level document that records how asbestos-containing materials will be managed to prevent exposure. It covers the asbestos register, risk assessments, control measures, monitoring schedules, emergency procedures, and training requirements. Building owners and managers are legally responsible for keeping the plan current and updating it whenever conditions change.
Risk Communication
The process of exchanging information about levels or significance of health or environmental risk.
Risk Factor
A characteristic (e.g., race, sex, age, obesity) or variable (e.g., smoking, exposure) associated with increased chance of toxic effects. Some standard risk factors used in general risk assessment calculations include average breathing rates, average weight, and average human life span.
Health Assessment
An evaluation of available data on existing or potential risks posed by a Superfund site. Every site on the National Priorities List has a health assessment prepared by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.