Which activity is most likely to increase the risk of fiber release from asbestos?

Renovation work is the activity most likely to increase the risk of fiber release from asbestos because it often involves disturbing materials that may contain asbestos. Asbestos is commonly found in older buildings within insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, and various building materials. During renovation, the actions of cutting, demolishing, or sanding these materials can release asbestos fibers into the air, posing significant health risks to workers and occupants.

While routine office cleanings, regular building inspections, and installing new electrical systems may involve some level of disturbance to materials, they typically do not carry the same level of risk as renovation work. Cleaning may maintain a safe environment, inspections focus on assessing potential hazards without significant disruption, and installing electrical systems can sometimes be done without disturbing asbestos-containing materials. In contrast, renovation is inherently disruptive and most likely to bring asbestos fibers into the air, leading to increased exposure risks.