Before using glove bags to remove Asbestos Containing Material (ACM), what test must they undergo?

The correct procedure before using glove bags for the removal of Asbestos Containing Material (ACM) is to conduct a smoke test. This test is essential because it ensures that the glove bags are sealed properly and do not have any leaks that could allow asbestos fibers to escape into the environment. A smoke test involves introducing a visible aerosol (often a smoke or vapor) into the glove bag to observe whether it leaks out. If the smoke remains contained, it indicates that the bag is secure for use.

Proper sealing is critical in asbestos removal operations since any breach in containment can expose workers and environments to hazardous asbestos fibers. By performing the smoke test, workers can confirm the integrity of the glove bags and ensure that they comply with safety regulations prior to beginning any removal work.

While visual inspections are important for general safety and PPE checks, they do not provide the definitive evidence of airtightness that a smoke test does. Similarly, pressure tests and thickness tests pertain to different aspects of equipment and materials and are not the designated tests for glove bag containment integrity specifically.