Is Asbestos Hiding in Your Child’s School ?

salah16 October، 2025

0 30 3 minutes read

A school classroom with highlighted areas showing possible asbestos-containing materials. — Common asbestos-containing materials in schools include ceiling tiles, insulation, and floor tiles.

What Is Asbestos in Schools and Why Does It Matter?

In 1986, Congress handed the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) to protect private and public school children and staff from asbestos exposure. AHERA recognizes that asbestos materials in schools that are intact generally do not pose a health risk. The act includes provisions to monitor the condition of asbestos-containing materials, manage these materials, and maintain open communication lines between all interested parties. These provisions are relevant to schools across the United States and its territories.

If asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can cause serious health problems such as cancer and asbestosis. Symptoms may take 20 years or more to appear. Failure to comply with AHERA regulations can lead to penalties of up to $5,500 per day, per school.

What Are the Key Provisions of AHERA?

AHERA mandates several important actions for every school to ensure asbestos safety. These include:

Provision	Description
Designate an Asbestos Supervisor	Each school must appoint and train an individual to oversee asbestos-related activities. This person can be a consultant or a school employee.
Inspection of Buildings	All school buildings must be inspected for the presence of asbestos-containing materials.
Management Plan	A detailed management plan for controlling asbestos exposure must be developed and implemented using accredited inspection personnel.
Public Records	All records related to asbestos inspections and management must be available for public review.
Annual Notification	Parents, teachers, and staff must be informed yearly about asbestos-related activities in the school.

How Can Schools and Parents Get More Information About Asbestos?

If you have questions about asbestos at a specific school, you can contact the individual designated at that school to supervise asbestos-related issues. Additionally, you may reach out to your local Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Asbestos Regional Coordinator or call the EPA Asbestos Ombudsman at (800) 368-5888.

What Resources Are Available Regarding Asbestos in Schools?

Several valuable resources provide detailed information about AHERA and asbestos management in schools. Some key documents include:

100 Commonly Asked Questions about the New AHERA Asbestos-in-Schools Rule (EPA, 1988): A collection of frequently asked questions about asbestos rules in schools.
ABCs of Asbestos in Schools. Revised Edition. (EPA, 2003): A pamphlet designed to help parents and teachers understand asbestos risks and school responsibilities.
Asbestos Abatement and Management Actions in New Jersey Schools (New Jersey Dept. of Health, 1996): Information on asbestos programs and abatement projects in schools.
Guidance Manual: Asbestos Operations & Maintenance Work Practices (National Institute of Building Sciences, 1996): Technical guidance on managing asbestos-containing materials in buildings.
How to Handle Asbestos in Faculty Buildings: AHERA Designated Person’s Self-Check Guide (EPA): Recommendations to help AHERA designated persons understand their responsibilities.
Asbestos Risk Management Issues for Our Schools (NJ Dept. of Health and Senior Services, 1994): Results of studies on asbestos abatement and management in schools.
Schools Respond to Risk Management Programs for Asbestos, Lead in Drinking Water and Radon (EPA): A study on the effectiveness of risk communication and regulatory strategies.
Toxic Substances: Information on Costs and Financial Aid to Schools To Control Asbestos (GAO, 1992): Data on asbestos abatement costs and available financial aid for schools.
Answers to the Most Frequently Asked Questions about Reinspections under the AHERA Asbestos-In-Schools Rule (EPA, 1991): Clarifications on reinspection requirements under AHERA.
Asbestos in Schools: Evaluation of the AHERA Act (EPA, 1991): Analysis of AHERA’s implementation and impact.
Managing Asbestos in Place: A Building Owner’s Guide (EPA, 1990): Guidance on asbestos management and abatement actions for building owners.

Why Is Compliance With AHERA Important?

Complying with AHERA is critical to protect students, staff, and visitors from asbestos exposure. Schools that fail to meet these standards may face significant fines and put their communities at risk of serious health issues. Effective asbestos management, including inspections, maintenance, and communication, helps ensure a safe educational environment.

What Are the Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure in Schools?

Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause severe health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Unfortunately, symptoms may not appear for 20 years or more after exposure. This delayed onset makes it crucial for schools to manage asbestos properly to minimize risks.

How Are Schools Handling Asbestos Abatement and Maintenance?

Schools undertake asbestos abatement projects and ongoing maintenance under AHERA guidelines. These efforts may include removing damaged asbestos materials, encapsulating asbestos, and conducting regular operations and maintenance (O&M) programs to prevent fiber release. Accredited professionals conduct inspections and oversee these activities to ensure safety.

Final Thoughts on Asbestos in Schools

Understanding AHERA and asbestos risks helps schools maintain a safe environment for students and staff. Regular inspections, proper management plans, transparent communication, and compliance with federal regulations are vital steps in asbestos control.