When should a regulated area be established?

A regulated area should be established when workers are likely to be exposed to asbestos at or above the permissible exposure limit (PEL) because it is essential to protect workers from the health risks associated with asbestos exposure. The establishment of such an area ensures that specific safety measures are in place, including restricted access for non-authorized personnel, mandatory use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and proper ventilation systems.

Creating a regulated area is a proactive step to limit exposure and implement necessary safety protocols, thereby reducing the risk of asbestos-related diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma. This approach is standard practice in environments where asbestos presence is a known hazard, and it adheres to regulations set by occupational safety agencies.

The other options do not accurately represent the appropriate times for establishing a regulated area. Emergency situations may require different protocols, routine inspections generally assess compliance rather than establish new areas, and visible signs of asbestos alone may not indicate levels of exposure that necessitate a regulated area.