1926.1101(o)(4): Training for the Asbestos Competent Person
For Class I and II asbestos work, the competent person must be trained in all aspects of asbestos removal and handling through a comprehensive supervisor course meeting EPA's Model Accreditation Plan or an equivalent. For Class III and IV work, the competent person must complete a course consistent with EPA custodial and maintenance staff training at 40 CFR 763.92(a)(2), or equivalent, covering glove bags, mini-enclosures, wet methods, this standard and asbestos identification.
Key takeaways
- 1926.1101(o)(4) is part of OSHA's construction standards (29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart Z).
- OSHA cited it 10 times in the last 3 years, in 10 inspections, with $10,900 in current penalties.
- Most citations: IL (2), NJ (2), UT (2).
- Related part: 1926.1101(o) Competent person (63 citations).
- Free 5-minute toolbox talk for your crew below.
In this article
What this rule covers
29 CFR 1926.1101(o)(4) ("Training for the competent person") is one requirement inside 1926.1101 Asbestos, an OSHA construction standard (Part 1926, Subpart Z). It includes 2 sub-paragraphs. 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
(4) Training for the competent person. 10 citations
(i) For Class I and II asbestos work the competent person shall be trained in all aspects of asbestos removal and handling, including: abatement, installation, removal and handling; the contents of this standard; the identification of asbestos; removal procedures, where appropriate; and other practices for reducing the hazard. Such training shall be obtained in a comprehensive course for supervisors that meets the criteria of EPA's Model Accreditation Plan (40 CFR part 763, subpart E, appendix C), such as a course conducted by an EPA-approved or state-approved training provider, certified by EPA or a state, or a course equivalent in stringency, content, and length. 7 citations
(ii) For Class III and IV asbestos work, the competent person shall be trained in aspects of asbestos handling appropriate for the nature of the work, to include procedures for setting up glove bags and mini-enclosures, practices for reducing asbestos exposures, use of wet methods, the contents of this standard, and the identification of asbestos. Such training shall include successful completion of a course that is consistent with EPA requirements for training of local education agency maintenance and custodial staff as set forth at 40 CFR 763.92(a)(2), or its equivalent in stringency, content and length. Competent persons for Class III and IV work, may also be trained pursuant to the requirements of paragraph (o)(4)(i) of this section. 3 citations
Source: eCFR, text current as of 2026-10-15. Read all of 1926.1101.
Where and how often it was cited
| Year | Citations |
|---|---|
| 2024 | 2 |
| 2025 | 4 |
| 2026 | 4 |
Top states: IL (2), NJ (2), UT (2), TN (1), WI (1)
Largest penalties
| Employer | Location | Penalty for this rule |
|---|---|---|
| CUMBERLAND COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS | PORT NORRIS, NJ | $5,000 |
| HYLL PLUMBING LLC | SALT LAKE CITY, UT | $2,100 |
| MAURICE RIVER TOWNSHIP ROAD DEPARTMENT | LEESBURG, NJ | $2,000 |
| P&A PLUMBING LLC | CHICAGO, IL | $1,350 |
| 108742 - AMERICAN WATER DAMAGE OF MINNEAPOLIS LLC | BURNSVILLE, MN | $450 |
Free toolbox talk
A 5-minute crew talk on 1926.1101(o)(4), plus alerts when this rule changes. Free.
OSHA interpretation letters
- Requirements for tapping or tying-in to asbestos containing cement water pipes for construction. (2007-05-29)
- Application of the asbestos standard to demolition of buildings with ACM in place. (2002-08-26)
Related parts of this rule
- 1926.1101(o) Competent person 63 citations
- 1926.1101(o)(3) Additional inspections 35 citations
- 1926.1101(o)(3)(i) 32 citations
- 1926.1101(o)(1) General 18 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
What training does a Class I or II competent person need?
A comprehensive supervisor course that meets EPA's Model Accreditation Plan criteria, or a course equivalent in stringency, content and length.
What about Class III and IV work?
A course consistent with EPA requirements at 40 CFR 763.92(a)(2), or its equivalent, covering topics such as glove bags, mini-enclosures, wet methods and asbestos identification.
Can a Class III or IV competent person take the supervisor course instead?
Yes. They may also be trained under the Class I and II requirements.
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.