What is the key role of an AHERA inspector regarding asbestos?

The key role of an AHERA inspector is to identify asbestos presence in buildings. AHERA, which stands for the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act, establishes guidelines for managing asbestos in educational facilities and other buildings. The primary responsibility of an AHERA inspector involves conducting thorough surveys to locate, identify, and assess the condition of asbestos-containing materials. By accurately identifying these materials, inspectors play a crucial part in ensuring the safety of occupants and guiding further actions regarding management or removal.

While roles such as designing remediation plans, certifying contractors, or overseeing clean-up operations are important, they typically fall under the purview of other professionals or specific regulations related to asbestos management rather than the inspector's duties. The inspector's focus is to provide an accurate assessment of asbestos presence, which is foundational for any subsequent management actions.