Asbestos and School Buildings

 

 

Asbestos and School Buildings

Asbestos was a commonly used building material in the past due to its fire resistance and insulating properties. However, it's now known to be hazardous when its fibers become airborne and inhaled.  Here's the key information about asbestos in schools:

The Risk:

    Asbestos is only dangerous when the fibers are disturbed and become airborne.
    Undamaged asbestos materials pose minimal risk.

Regulations:

    The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) requires public and non-profit schools to:
        Conduct inspections to identify asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).
        Develop management plans outlining how they'll handle any ACMs found.
        Re-inspect the materials every three years.
        Make the management plan available to parents and staff upon request.

Management vs. Removal:

    Removal of asbestos is often unnecessary and can be risky if not done properly.
    Schools typically manage ACMs by:
        Encapsulating or enclosing the materials to prevent fiber release.
        Regularly inspecting and maintaining the materials.

Finding Out More:

    By law, schools must notify parents and staff about the availability of the asbestos management plan.
    You can contact your child's school administration to inquire about the plan and any ACMs present.

Resources:

    The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides a wealth of information on asbestos in schools, including regulations and guidance for management plans: [US Environmental Protection Agency, Asbestos and School Buildings]