OSHA and EPA prohibit the following activities:
Dry sweeping, dusting, shoveling or normal vacuuming of asbestos or PACM material, debris, waste, or dust.
Using compressed air to clean surfaces contaminated with asbestos or to remove asbestos unless it is used with a ventilation system that can capture the dust cloud.
Sanding of asbestos-containing flooring material.
What other EPA laws protect workers and others from asbestos?
EPA Asbestos-in-Schools Rule (40 CFR Part 763 Subpart E) requires schools to inspect buildings for asbestos and prevent exposure to worker/occupant exposure.
EPA National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP 40 CFR 61 Subpart M) has requirements for removal of asbestos before demolition, notification EPA before removal, preventing the release of fibers into the air, and waste disposal.
Federal OSHA and EPA Asbestos Laws
Summary
OSHA General Industry Standard (29 CFR 1910.1001) covers routine housekeeping activities in buildings and automotive brake and clutch repair.
OSHA Construction Standard (29 CFR 1926.1101) applies to build demolition and renovation operations and other activities where asbestos is removed or encapsulated. It also covers building maintenance and emergency cleanup of asbestos spills.
EPA Asbestos Worker Protection Rule (40 CFR Part 763 Subpart G) extends the OSHA asbestos protections to state and local government workers not covered by OSHA laws.
EPA Asbestos-in-Schools Rule (40 CFR Part 763 Subpart E) requires schools to inspect buildings for asbestos and prevent exposure to worker/occupant exposure.
EPA National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP 40 CFR 61 Subpart M) has requirements for removal of asbestos before demolition, notification to EPA before removal, preventing release of fibers into the air, and waste disposal.