How AHERA Protects Schools From Asbestos
The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) is a federal law enacted in 1986 to regulate asbestos in schools. The law granted the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the authority to regulate asbestos in schools and other public buildings. The EPA has the power to enforce the requirements of AHERA, including the inspection of public buildings and the removal of asbestos when necessary.
The six types of asbestos regulated by the EPA under AHERA include:
- Chrysotile -This is the most commonly used form of asbestos and is found in many building materials, including insulation, roofing, and flooring.
- Amosite –This type of asbestos is usually used in insulation and roofing products.
- Crocidolite –This kind of asbestos is known for its high level of toxicity and is generally used in insulation and cement products.
- Tremolite –This category of asbestos is often found in insulation, roofing, and flooring products.
- Actinolite –This variety of asbestos is found in insulation, roofing, and flooring products, and is known for its high level of toxicity.
- Anthophyllite –This type of asbestos is found in insulation and flooring products and is noted as being very dangerous.
Under AHERA, all public schools are required to inspect their buildings for asbestos and to remove or properly manage asbestos-containing materials if they pose a risk to human health. Schools must also maintain records of the asbestos in their buildings and provide training to staff and students on how to properly handle asbestos.
AHERA also requires schools to notify parents, teachers, and staff about the presence of asbestos in their buildings and to provide information about the health risks associated with asbestos exposure. In addition, schools must inform the EPA about the results of their asbestos inspections and any actions they have taken to remove or manage asbestos-containing materials.
AHERA has been successful in reducing the risk of exposure to asbestos in schools and other public buildings, but the EPA continues to monitor the enforcement of the law and ensure that schools are following the requirements. Schools that violate the requirements of AHERA may be subject to fines and other penalties, including the requirement to remove the asbestos.
The Cyclone Kleen Up asbestos abatement experts help Colorado schools comply with air pollution laws regulating asbestos and materials containing it, including the Air Quality Control Commission's decrees concerning asbestos abatement in Colorado. Cyclone Kleen Up is one of the companies designated by the governor's office to oversee asbestos management plans for all public and private nonprofit schools in Colorado and make sure they are complying with the regulations and reducing the risk of asbestos exposure.
To learn more, call or click here to schedule asbestos removal services ASAP at your property in Colorado. For safe asbestos abatement and removal in Colorado Springs, Pueblo, and the surrounding area, contact Cyclone Kleen Up today!
