1926.1101(k)(9)(i): Asbestos Worker Training
Employers must train each worker likely to be exposed above a PEL, and each worker who does Class I through IV asbestos work, as this section requires. Training must be free to the worker, and employers must run a training program and make sure workers take part.
Key takeaways
- 1926.1101(k)(9)(i) is part of OSHA's construction standards (29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart Z).
- OSHA cited it 105 times in the last 3 years, in 105 inspections, with $160,440 in current penalties.
- Most citations: MI (45), NY (11), VA (10).
- Related part: 1926.1101(k) Communication of hazards (631 citations).
- Free 5-minute toolbox talk for your crew below.
In this article
What this rule covers
29 CFR 1926.1101(k)(9)(i) is one requirement inside 1926.1101 Asbestos, an OSHA construction standard (Part 1926, Subpart Z). The official text below is copied word for word from the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR). The numbers, injury cases and training on this page show how OSHA enforces it on real job sites.
Official text
(i) The employer shall train each employee who is likely to be exposed in excess of a PEL, and each employee who performs Class I through IV asbestos operations, in accordance with the requirements of this section. Such training shall be conducted at no cost to the employee. The employer shall institute a training program and ensure employee participation in the program. 105 citations
Source: eCFR, text current as of 2026-10-15. Read all of 1926.1101.
Where and how often it was cited
| Year | Citations |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 5 |
| 2024 | 37 |
| 2025 | 36 |
| 2026 | 27 |
Top states: MI (45), NY (11), VA (10), OR (8), IL (8)
Largest penalties
| Employer | Location | Penalty for this rule |
|---|---|---|
| TOWNSHIP OF TOMS RIVER DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS | TOMS RIVER, NJ | $70,000 |
| CPX2024XMS021X0021 - COMMERCIAL CARPET CLEANING, INC DBA COMMERCIAL CLEANING AND RESTORATION | TUCSON, AZ | $6,452 |
| JM ROMICH ENTERPRISES, INC | GREECE, NY | $5,250 |
| WRIGHT SERVICES | RARITAN, NJ | $4,965 |
| EDGE RESTORATION LAS VEGAS, LLC | LAS VEGAS, NV | $4,839 |
Free toolbox talk
A 5-minute crew talk on 1926.1101(k)(9)(i), plus alerts when this rule changes. Free.
OSHA interpretation letters
None exist. OSHA has not published a letter of interpretation for 1926.1101(k)(9)(i).
Related parts of this rule
- 1926.1101(k) Communication of hazards 631 citations
- 1926.1101(k)(3) 269 citations
- 1926.1101(k)(9) Employee Information and Training 160 citations
- 1926.1101(k)(3)(i) 144 citations
- 1926.1101(k)(3)(ii) 124 citations
- 1926.1101(k)(2) Duties of building and facility owners 121 citations
- 1926.1101(k)(2)(ii) 64 citations
- 1926.1101(k)(2)(i) 57 citations
- 1926.1101(k)(5) 31 citations
- 1926.1101(k)(9)(iv) 28 citations
- 1926.1101(k)(9)(iv)(A) 26 citations
- 1926.1101(k)(5)(i) 25 citations
Get your crew competent
Trainers on Black Belt Safety: Marc Harvey, Dana Reyes
Trainers and suppliers: feature your business on this rule for $25/month.
Frequently asked questions
Who needs asbestos training?
Each employee likely to be exposed in excess of a PEL and each employee who performs Class I through IV asbestos operations.
Who pays for the training?
The employer; it must be at no cost to the employee.
Is offering the training enough?
No. The employer must ensure employee participation in the program.
About this page
Sources
- 29 CFR 1926.1101 (eCFR), text current as of 2026-10-15
- U.S. Department of Labor enforcement data: OSHA inspections, citations and accident records, copied nightly; data as of 2026-10-20
3-year window. Federal OSHA only; state-plan rules are not counted. Plain-language text is a summary, not legal advice; the official text controls. Black Belt Safety is not part of OSHA or the Department of Labor.