Asbestos Abatement Program

EPA’s asbestos program for schools, mandated by the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA), and its regulations for schools and other buildings is founded on the principle of “in-place” management of asbestos-containing material (ACM). This approach is designed to prevent asbestos exposure by teaching people to recognize asbestos-containing materials and actively monitor and, where necessary, manage them in place.

Removal of ACM is not usually necessary unless the material is severely damaged or will be disturbed by a building demolition or renovation project.What is the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA)?The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA), a provision of the Toxic Substances Control Act, became law in 1986. AHERA requires local education agencies to inspect their schools for asbestos-containing building material and prepare management plans to prevent or reduce asbestos hazards.

Public school districts and non-profit private schools (collectively called local education agencies) are subject to AHERA’s requirements. This includes charter schools and schools affiliated with religious institutions.

EPA provides local education agencies and parents and teachers with information about the AHERA asbestos-in-schools requirements through mailings and other outreach.

Mr. Stacy Merriman is the school coordinator and all inquiries regarding asbestos-related issues should be directed to him at 360.496.5300.