ASCS Quality Assurance & Compliance 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When restoring a fibrous glass-lined duct system, which NADCA-compliant method involves applying an encapsulant to exposed fibers?
- Replacement with sheet metal
- Application of an EPA-registered biocide
- Application of a sealant/encapsulant coating (Correct answer)
- Use of negative pressure isolation
Correct answer: Application of a sealant/encapsulant coating
Encapsulant coatings approved for duct use are applied to fibrous glass linings to seal exposed fibers after cleaning.
Question 2: Which federal law requires contractors to notify building occupants before disturbing asbestos-containing duct insulation?
- Clean Air Act
- NESHAP (40 CFR Part 61) (Correct answer)
- Safe Drinking Water Act
- Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
Correct answer: NESHAP (40 CFR Part 61)
EPA's National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) regulations require notification before demolition or renovation that disturbs asbestos.
Question 3: An ASCS technician discovers microbial growth inside ductwork. What is the FIRST step required before applying an EPA-registered biocide?
- Apply the biocide immediately to prevent spread
- Remove the source moisture problem and mechanically clean the surfaces (Correct answer)
- Notify the EPA regional office
- Seal off the area and vacate the building
Correct answer: Remove the source moisture problem and mechanically clean the surfaces
NADCA standards require that the source of moisture be corrected and surfaces mechanically cleaned before any biocide application.
Question 4: How often should NADCA-certified companies renew their NADCA membership and meet continuing education requirements?
- Every 5 years
- Every 3 years
- Annually (Correct answer)
- Every 2 years
Correct answer: Annually
NADCA membership and associated certifications require annual renewal, including documentation of continuing education.
Question 5: Which test uses a calibrated vacuum device to draw air through a filter media placed over a duct access panel to measure particulate?
- Gravimetric analysis (Correct answer)
- Wipe sample test
- Particle counter test
- Pressure differential test
Correct answer: Gravimetric analysis
Gravimetric analysis measures the weight of particulate collected on filter media by a calibrated vacuum, quantifying surface contamination.
Question 6: A building owner asks the ASCS technician which NADCA standard covers the proper cleaning of cooling coils. Where is this guidance found?
- NADCA ACR 2013 Section 5 (Correct answer)
- ASHRAE Standard 52.2
- SMACNA HVAC Duct Construction Standards
- EPA IAQ 402
Correct answer: NADCA ACR 2013 Section 5
NADCA ACR 2013 Section 5 specifically addresses the cleaning procedures for HVAC system components including cooling coils.
Question 7: What is the correct disposal requirement for debris and contaminated materials removed from a mold-affected HVAC system?
- Deposit in standard dumpsters without restriction
- Seal in impermeable bags and dispose per local regulations (Correct answer)
- Burn on site to prevent spread
- Return to manufacturer for recycling
Correct answer: Seal in impermeable bags and dispose per local regulations
Contaminated materials must be sealed in impermeable bags and disposed of in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations.
ASCS Quality Assurance & Compliance 3
When restoring a fibrous glass-lined duct system, which NADCA-compliant method involves applying an encapsulant to exposed fibers?