In asbestos related industries, what is the role of employer in protection of employees from asbestos exposure?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a component of the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and is the Federal agency responsible for health and safety regulations in maritime, construction, manufacturing, and service workplaces. OSHA established regulations dealing with asbestos exposure on the job, specifically construction work and shipyards. This standard requires employers to follow various procedures to protect their employees from inhaling asbestos fibers. The standard contains requirements that vary depending on the kind of work being undertaken, the amount of asbestos in the air, and other factors. Employers are required to monitor the airborne concentration of asbestos in the work place regularly. Employers should comply with all OSHA regulations and take preventive measures for employees, such as mandatory face masks, to reduce exposure risk. You and your employer can obtain a copy of this standard and the booklet, Asbestos Standards for Construction (OSHA 3096) describing how to comply with it, from OSHA Publications, P.O. Box 37535, Washington, DC 20013-7535, (202) 6931888(phone), or (202) 693-2498(fax); or visit OSHA’s website at www.osha.gov.