Guidelines For Safe Asbestos Abatement In Schools .The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that almost all schools in the United States built before the 1980’s contain building materials made from asbestos. Asbestos was commonly used in insulation, roofing materials, floor and ceiling tiles, wall paneling, and pipes until its use became highly regulated. Asbestos becomes a health hazard when it is disturbed which increases the chances of its fibers being released. Asbestos is particularly dangerous when dry and can be crumbled by hand, often referred to as “friable.”
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.
School officials are required to follow AHERA
guidelines to protect school staff and students from any chance of exposure to asbestos. Although it is a naturally occurring mineral, asbestos is known to be highly carcinogenic. Asbestos is highly durable as well heat and fire resistant. Before being banned, asbestos was used in many different types of building materials. During renovations, repairs or demolition, asbestos-containing materials may release microscopic fibers into the air. These tiny, light fibers can then remain airborne for a long time, creating the potential for anyone in the area to be exposed.
AHERA regulations were created to provide a framework for public and private schools to deal with asbestos at their sites. AHERA is a federally mandated guideline requiring all schools to manage asbestos containing materials safely. If asbestos is intact and in good condition, then regulations recommend leaving it alone. AHERA recognizes that removal heightens the chance of asbestos becoming airborne, and therefore do not require removal.
AHERA also requires that asbestos inspections or abatement work be performed only by specially trained and accredited workers. Sealing, encapsulating, or enclosing damaged asbestos products is usually the first recommended practice. If removal is necessary, asbestos abatement professionals must be consulted with and used.
The U.S. government agency responsible for conducting inspections and ensuring that all schools comply with the regulations is the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Large fines and even criminal charges may occur if schools or contracted companies fail to follow federal safety guidelines when handling, removing or disposing or asbestos.
