Can an employer mandate that you work in a building where there is asbestos?

The mere presence of asbestos in a building is not necessarily a hazard. It may be well enclosed and in good condition, with annual inspections and repairs conducted. If that is the case, an employer would have every right to expect employees to work in the building.

If the asbestos-containing material is in poor condition, however, it should be repaired or removed and employees should not be expected to work where deteriorated asbestos-containing materials could release fibers that could become airborne.

Whether the employer has the right to force employees to work in such a space depends on the laws of the place where these conditions exist. But the employee usually has the final choice of quiting the job if working in the space where the asbestos is located is too much of a concern.