Everything to Know About Asbestos in Schools
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a hazardous material that can be found in almost every building constructed between the 1940s and 1960s. Seeing as many schools were erected during this period of time, asbestos could be present around your children and you may not even know it.
Here’s an FAQ detailing everything you need to know about the presence of asbestos in your child’s school.
How can I confirm my child’s school has asbestos in it?
According to the Asbestos-Containing Materials in Schools Rule, schools are required to share their asbestos management plans with parents and other members of the general public within the community. This rule is in accordance with the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA). If you have questions about asbestos being present in your child’s school, you can also contact the school’s AHERA designated person.
Wasn’t asbestos banned in schools a long time ago?
Asbestos-containing products have not been fully banned from use in the United States. In schools, these materials are typically “managed-in-place,” which means ensuring there is a program that effectively manages these materials day-to-day. This means your school’s management program is that much more important to have access to.
Is my child at risk for asbestos exposure if it’s in their school?
If a school has effective management plans in place to contain asbestos-containing materials and ensure they aren’t disturbed, your child should be safe. There is only a serious health risk if any asbestos-containing material is damaged and your child inhales asbestos fibers.
Do my children need to be tested for asbestos exposure if it’s in their school?
The short answer is no. If managed effectively, asbestos does not pose a serious health risk to your children. That being said, if you fear you or your children have been exposed to asbestos fibers it’s important to speak with your physician.
Is my child’s school required to notify me of changes to their management plan?
Under AHERA, your child’s school is required to keep the general public up-to-date on any changes to the status of asbestos-containing materials and the management of these materials. A school’s asbestos management plan is required to be updated with new information gathered every six months. Updates are also required during inspections every three years and any time a “response action” is taken by the school.
Why can’t my child’s school just remove the asbestos?
If managed properly, asbestos-containing materials should not pose a risk to students. However, if any asbestos-containing materials are degrading or damaged, asbestos abatement may be required. If this is the case, a school must hire trained and accredited asbestos professionals or a Los Angeles asbestos contractor to handle the removal of these materials. Asbestos contractors like Nielsen Environmental are an example of an organization working in the realms of asbestos removal.