TO: PARENTS OF STUDENTS
ALL DISTRICT R-1 EMPLOYEES
FROM: SUPERINTENDENT’S OFFICE
DATE: AUGUST, 2011
RE: ASBESTOS IN SCHOOLS
In 1986, Congress passed the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA). That law requires all schools, kindergarten through twelfth grade, to be inspected to identify any asbestos-containing building materials. The law further requires the development of a Management Plan, based upon the findings of the inspection, which outlines our intent in controlling the potential for exposure to asbestos fibers in our schools.
In the past, asbestos was used extensively in building materials because of its insulating and fire retarding capabilities. Virtually any building built before the late 1970s contain at least some asbestos in pipe insulation and structural fireproofing. We, too, have buildings that contain asbestos materials. The primary concern arises when these materials begin to deteriorate or become damaged.
Our Management Plan identifies areas in which asbestos-containing materials are located, have been removed or repaired, and any cleaning procedures and schedules used to maintain those materials in a safe condition. During the demolition and reconstruction of the Middle School (now Intermediate School), no Asbestos Containing Building Materials (ACBM) was used in the new construction. Other buildings, which do not contain ACBM, are the Primary School and Intermediate School modulars, and Early Childhood Center modular and satellite classrooms.
Our most current re-inspection of buildings was completed June, 2009. No change in the condition of ACBM was noted. All required annual cleaning was completed by building custodians during the summer. Periodic cleaning will continue throughout the year.
A copy of the Management Plan is on file for your review at the school administrative office at Macdonald Hall, Otero Junior College, 1802 Colorado Avenue, Suite 200. Copies of individual building inspection reports are on file in each school’s administrative office.
