When should supplied air respirators be used according to good work practices?

Supplied air respirators should be used during the entire asbestos removal process, specifically from the gross removal phase through to the final cleanup. This is because these respirators provide a continuous supply of clean air, which is crucial for protecting workers from inhaling hazardous asbestos fibers that can be released into the air during these activities.

Using supplied air respirators throughout the process ensures that workers are protected in all phases where asbestos exposure is possible, which includes not just the initial setup but all stages of removal and cleanup. This practice aligns with safety protocols designed to minimize health risks associated with asbestos, ensuring that workers maintain a safe breathing environment until all hazardous material has been properly contained and removed.

In contrast, relying on a respirator only during initial setup, final cleanup, or solely in emergencies would leave workers at risk of exposure during the critical stages of gross removal where asbestos is most likely to be disturbed and released into the environment.