What action should be taken regarding water sources in the containment area?

In an asbestos abatement scenario, shutting down any unused water sources is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, water can be a vector for asbestos fibers if not properly managed. In an abatement project, the goal is to minimize the disturbance and release of asbestos fibers into the air. Unused water lines or sources can inadvertently become pathways for contamination and create potential hazards during the abatement process.

By shutting down these unused water sources, abatement supervisors can ensure that the environment is controlled and that there is no unintended introduction of asbestos into the water system. This proactive measure helps maintain the integrity of the containment area and protects both workers and the surrounding environment.

In contrast, keeping all water sources active or limiting water usage during the day could lead to complications in maintaining a secure and safe abatement site. Checking water quality is also essential, but it is a different measure that should be secondary to ensuring that no elements introduce a risk of contamination via water sources. The primary step should always focus on eliminating potential threats before assessing conditions.