Which of the following methods is NOT used to protect human health and the environment from asbestos-containing materials (ACM) under AHERA?

The method identified as NOT used to protect human health and the environment from asbestos-containing materials (ACM) under the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) is demolition.

Demolition typically involves the complete tearing down of structures, which can release asbestos fibers into the air if asbestos is present in those materials. This approach does not prioritize the safety of human health or environmental protection. In contrast, encapsulation, removal, and operations/maintenance are strategies directly aimed at managing ACM to minimize risks associated with asbestos exposure.

Encapsulation seals asbestos-containing materials to prevent the release of fibers, while removal involves safely taking out the materials altogether. Operations and maintenance practices help in managing existing ACM and ensuring they remain undisturbed, thus protecting individuals from potential exposure. Therefore, demolition, as a method that could cause release rather than containment or safe management, does not align with the protective objectives outlined by AHERA.