Humber/Ontario Real Estate Course 2 Exam Practice

Which statement is accurate regarding the risks associated with asbestos?

1. Airborne asbestos fibers do not represent a serious health risk

2. Asbestos is treated as a patent defect due to being easily identifiable

3. Asbestos is known for its insulating qualities

4. Friable asbestos is safer than non-friable asbestos

5. Asbestos issues are typically resolved by painting over the affected areas

6. Only large quantities of asbestos present a danger

The correct answer is: Asbestos is known for its insulating qualities

Asbestos is known for its insulating qualities, making Choice C the accurate statement regarding risks associated with asbestos. Asbestos was commonly used in insulation due to its heat and fire-resistant properties. This made it a popular building material until its harmful health effects were discovered. Asbestos is a known carcinogen and exposure to its fibers can lead to serious health risks such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Regarding the other options: A. Airborne asbestos fibers do represent a serious health risk, as inhalation of these fibers can lead to various respiratory diseases. B. Asbestos is treated as a latent defect because it is not always easily identifiable, especially when encapsulated within building materials. D. Friable asbestos is more dangerous than non-friable asbestos because it can easily release fibers into the air. E. Painting over asbestos-containing materials is not a proper or safe way to resolve asbestos issues. Proper abatement procedures should be followed to safely remove asbestos from a property. F. Any quantity of asbestos, even in small amounts, can pose a danger to human health.