What is a common method of controlling asbestos exposure during work?

The use of wet methods of removal is a common and effective strategy for controlling asbestos exposure during work. This approach involves applying water or a suitable wetting agent to asbestos-containing materials before and during their disturbance, which helps to minimize the release of asbestos fibers into the air. The moisture effectively binds the asbestos fibers together, significantly reducing the chances of inhalation or contamination when the material is handled.

This method is particularly important in both demolition and renovation activities where asbestos might be present. It serves not only to protect the workers engaging with the materials but also to ensure that the surrounding environment remains safe from airborne asbestos particles.

In contrast, the other options do not address the core issue of fiber release as effectively as the wet methods. While cloth masks might provide some level of protection, they are not sufficient to prevent inhalation of hazardous asbestos fibers. Conducting work during off-hours or providing additional breaks do not control asbestos exposure; they only affect the timing of the work or the worker's schedule without directly mitigating the risk associated with asbestos-containing materials.