According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), most schools constructed before the mid-1980's were built with asbestos-containing products. Until the use of asbestos became highly regulated, materials such as roofing shingles, adhesives, floor and ceiling tiles, wall paper, cement pipes and insulation commonly contained asbestos. When disturbed, asbestos can release fibers into the air and create a health hazard. This is particularly true when asbestos is considered to be in "friable" condition, meaning that when it is dry asbestos is able to be reduced to dust or powder by hand.
When asbestos is inhaled, it damages the lungs' ability to function and can cause serious illnesses such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is directly linked to asbestos exposure yet does not develop into symptoms until decades after initial inhalation. Even a single incident or low levels of exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma. Because of this health risk, the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) was passed by Congress in the late 1980's to prevent any exposure to asbestos in schools.
The AHERA guidelines outline responsibilities of school boards and school officials to protect students and employees from any potential exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous, carcinogenic mineral found naturally in the ground that was commonly added to many building materials because of its durability and high thermal and fire-resistant properties. When these materials are disturbed, such as during a renovation, repair, or demolition, microscopic asbestos fibers can be released into the environment. The fibers are small and light and can then remain airborne for hours, increasing the chance that those nearby will be exposed.
All schools, both public and private, are required to use AHERA regulations as a framework for managing asbestos. AHERA lists federal requirements on how schools should safely handle asbestos. If asbestos-containing materials are found to be in good condition, it is recommended that they be left alone. Removal is not required by AHERA as it may increase the chance of asbestos becoming airborne and causing exposure.
Inspectors and anyone performing asbestos removal work at schools must be accredited and trained. Commonly, if asbestos is deteriorated or damaged, the first line of repair is to encapsulate or enclose the harmful material. Occasionally removal will be necessary and should be performed only by asbestos abatement professionals.
To ensure that all schools comply with AHERA, the EPA is in charge of performing periodic inspections and investigating any reported failures to follow regulations. Schools and asbestos-compliance companies hired by schools that fail to follow AHERA guidelines can face huge fines and possibly face criminal charges.
Author Resource:
Sally Clapper is a representative for the mesothelioma attorneys Clapper, Patti, Schweizer & Mason, one of the leading plaintiffs' mesothelioma law firms in the nation. The firm's asbestos lawyers have been representing people with mesothelioma throughout the United States for over 25 years.
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