Health and Safety Flashcards

What is the primary hazard associated with disturbing asbestos-containing materials (ACM) during a home energy audit?

Answer: Inhalation of airborne asbestos fibers

Disturbing ACM releases microscopic fibers that, when inhaled, can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

When using a blower door to depressurize a home, which combustion appliance presents the greatest backdrafting risk?

Answer: Naturally drafted gas water heater

Naturally drafted appliances rely on buoyancy for exhaust and are easily overpowered by house depressurization, causing combustion gases to spill indoors.

What does a CO alarm reading of 70 ppm sustained for more than 1–2 hours indicate per UL 2034 standards?

Answer: Alarm activation threshold requiring occupant evacuation

UL 2034 requires CO alarms to trigger at 70 ppm sustained for 60–240 minutes, signaling a life-safety hazard requiring immediate evacuation.

Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when working in a crawlspace with suspected rodent droppings?

Answer: N95 respirator, gloves, and disposable coveralls

Rodent droppings can harbor hantavirus; an N95 respirator, nitrile gloves, and disposable coveralls protect against inhalation and contact.

What is the maximum allowable CO concentration in ambient air for occupied residential spaces according to ASHRAE guidelines?

Answer: 9 ppm

ASHRAE and EPA set a 9 ppm 8-hour average standard for indoor CO in occupied residential spaces.

Before entering a confined space such as a sealed crawlspace or attic, a BPI auditor should first:

Answer: Test the atmosphere for oxygen, combustible gases, and toxic vapors

Atmospheric testing for oxygen deficiency, combustible gases, and toxic contaminants is the first step before entering any confined space.

Which condition is a contraindication for performing a worst-case depressurization test in a home?

Answer: Active chimney fire or visible flame rollout at a draft hood

An active chimney fire or flame rollout indicates the combustion system is already compromised; additional depressurization could worsen a dangerous situation.