Asbestos fireproofing is most likely found on which building elements?

• A. On exposed steel beams and decking
• B. Inside finished drywall
• C. In concrete floor slabs
• D. Under roofing shingles

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is why asbestos was used as fireproofing for structural steel. Asbestos fireproofing was historically applied directly to steel members to slow the rise in temperature during a fire, helping the steel retain its strength longer and preventing a rapid collapse. Because of that purpose, you’ll most often find asbestos fireproofing on exposed structural elements like steel beams (and their decking) where the fireproofing coating or boards are applied to protect those members.

Finishes like drywall are wall/ceiling coverings, not the protective coating that guards structural steel in a fire. Concrete floor slabs can contain asbestos in some products, but they aren’t the typical fireproofing applied to steel members. Roofing shingles, while potentially containing asbestos in older materials, aren’t used as fireproofing for structural elements inside the building. So the best fit is on exposed steel beams and decking.