Summer is here and with it comes asbestos removal for a lot of schools. Shockingly, there are still a lot of schools that have asbestos-containing materials. If a school was built before or during the 1970s, it likely has asbestos. Asbestos could be in building materials and chalkboards. Asbestos and its dangers were first recognized in 1986 with the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act, also known as AHERA. This act forced public and private schools to adhere to strict regulations. They must have the schools tested and inspected for asbestos. They must also create asbestos management plans.
While a lot of schools have already completed asbestos abatement, some still need it. Asbestos management plans are in place to reduce the potential for asbestos exposure. If there is non-friable asbestos in a school, it must be inspected on a regular basis to ensure it does not pose the risk of becoming friable. Since asbestos has the tendency to float through the air, schools choose to do asbestos abatement and removal during Summer months. If the school contains asbestos, then it must be removed before any renovations or demolitions occur.
Certified asbestos removal contractors use special suits, respirators, and equipment to ensure asbestos removal is done correctly. Areas are sealed off to ensure no one comes into contact with the asbestos-containing materials and that once removed; it is disposed of according the laws and regulations. Regulations are strict when it comes to asbestos removal in schools and other commercial buildings. If you have a child at a school, you can request information on asbestos in school districts. You have the right to find out if there are asbestos dangers in the school your child attends. It is important that you research and understand the dangers of asbestos and how it can affect you and your family. Asbestos Abatement Services will help you recognize all the risks and identify options you have when it comes to asbestos.