Asbestos in Schools

Almost every school in the country was built with asbestos-containing products until the early 1970s. It could be found in floor and ceiling tiles, acoustical plaster, pipe insulation and fireproofing materials. States in cold weather climes used large amounts of the material in school insulation systems. But as the hazards of asbestos became known, a series of laws was enacted to lessen the dangers. Today, asbestos-containing material is still found in many primary and secondary schools, but progress has been made to alleviate the hazards.

 

Asbestos is a Health Hazard

Asbestos can pose a hazard to students, teachers and school employees when it is disturbed and becomes airborne and therefore breathable. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, particularly in large doses or on a frequent basis, they can eventually lead to diseases like mesothelioma and asbestosis.

 

The Environmental Protection Agency’s long-standing policy is that undamaged, non-friable asbestos is best left undisturbed and managed in place. Removing asbestos often has the potential to create a greater health risk than leaving it undisturbed.

 

Asbestos Regulations

The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act of 1986 requires local education authorities to inspect schools for building materials that contain asbestos and prepare plans on the best methods to reduce the asbestos hazards, such as:

 

• repairing damaged asbestos-containing material
• spraying it with a sealant
• enclosing it
• removing it
• keeping it in good condition

 

The education authorities must notify parent, teacher and employer organization of the plans and then implement them. The law also requires the accreditation of asbestos abatement designers, contractor supervisors and workers and building inspectors.

 

If parents or guardians feel children have been exposed to asbestos fibers in the air at school, they should consult with physicians who specialize in lung disorders or occupational exposures.

 

More information about asbestos in schools can be obtained by calling the Toxic Substances Control Act Hotline at (202) 554-1404.