What is the purpose of an Operations and Maintenance (OandM) program for asbestos?

The purpose of an Operations and Maintenance (O&M) program for asbestos is to manage and maintain asbestos materials safely. Such programs are implemented in buildings that contain asbestos to ensure that it remains undisturbed and in good condition, thereby preventing exposure to fibers that could pose health risks. The O&M program involves regular inspections, maintenance activities, and training for personnel to recognize and respond to asbestos-related issues effectively.

This approach is critical in buildings where the removal of asbestos might not be immediately feasible due to various reasons, such as cost, logistics, or the location of asbestos materials. By prioritizing the safe management of asbestos, the program helps protect the health of building occupants and workers, ensuring that any potential hazards are monitored and controlled.

Other options present different but incorrect goals. For instance, while notifying residents about asbestos risks is beneficial, it doesn't encapsulate the proactive and continuous nature of an O&M program. Eliminating asbestos or preparing buildings for demolition implies more drastic and less ongoing measures than what a proper O&M program entails. Thus, the focus of O&M is fundamentally about safe management rather than removal or demolition.