Which of the following is a key reason to manage asbestos in the workplace?

Managing asbestos in the workplace is crucial primarily because it helps prevent legal issues and safeguards employee health. Asbestos is known to pose serious health risks, including lung diseases and cancers like mesothelioma, when inhaled. Ensuring that asbestos is properly managed minimizes exposure risks for employees, thus promoting a safer work environment.

Moreover, failing to manage asbestos properly can lead to significant legal repercussions. Regulations require employers to identify, manage, and safely handle asbestos-containing materials. Non-compliance with these regulations can result in legal penalties, increased liability, and damage to a company's reputation.

While improving building aesthetics, enhancing property value, and reducing maintenance costs may have practical implications, they are secondary to the primary duty of ensuring employee safety and adhering to legal obligations concerning hazardous materials like asbestos. The focus on employee health and compliance with legal standards forms the backbone of effective asbestos management strategies in workplace environments.