Asbestos remains a significant concern for schools across the United States. To protect students, staff, and visitors, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) in 1986. AHERA requires public and non-profit K–12 schools to identify, manage, and communicate asbestos hazards in their buildings. Here’s an overview of what administrators, facility managers, and environmental professionals need to know about inspecting and documenting asbestos hazards under AHERA.
Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) were commonly used in insulation, floor tiles, ceiling tiles, pipe wraps, fireproofing, and other building components until the late 1970s. When these materials remain intact, they generally pose little risk. However, damage or deterioration can release asbestos fibers into the air, which may cause serious health issues such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
AHERA ensures that schools maintain a proactive approach—identifying potential asbestos hazards and preventing fiber release through proper operations and maintenance (O&M).
Schools must conduct a comprehensive inspection of all buildings for ACM by an accredited asbestos inspector.
A three-year re-inspection is required to reassess the condition of all known or suspected ACM.
Every school must develop and maintain an Asbestos Management Plan (AMP).
The AMP must be kept on site and made available to parents, staff, and regulatory agencies upon request.
Visual surveillance of ACM must occur at least every six months to check for damage or deterioration.
Each school or district must appoint a Designated Person to ensure compliance, maintain records, and coordinate response actions.
A thorough inspection should include:
Building Walk-Through: Examine all areas, including mechanical rooms, crawlspaces, and above ceilings.
Material Sampling: Collect bulk samples of suspect materials for laboratory analysis by an NVLAP-accredited lab.
Condition Assessment: Evaluate whether ACM is friable (easily crumbled) or non-friable, and document damage or potential disturbance.
Homogeneous Area Classification: Group similar materials by type, color, and texture for consistent evaluation.
Inspections must be documented with photographs, sketches, or floor plans indicating sample locations.
Accurate records are essential for regulatory compliance and safe facility management:
Inspection Reports: Include sample results, material location, condition, and recommendations.
Management Plan Updates: Incorporate inspection findings, response actions, and O&M procedures.
Response Actions Log: Record any asbestos abatement, repair, or encapsulation work.
Training Records: Maintain proof that custodial and maintenance staff receive AHERA-required awareness or O&M training.
All records must be kept for the life of the building and be accessible to interested parties.
Schedule semi-annual surveillance and three-year re-inspections in advance.
Use clear signage and work practices to prevent disturbance of ACM.
Train staff to recognize ACM and follow proper response protocols.
Engage certified asbestos inspectors, management planners, and abatement contractors.
Communicate openly with staff, parents, and contractors about the location and condition of asbestos materials.
A: The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) is a federal law that requires public and non-profit K–12 schools to inspect for asbestos-containing materials and manage them through a documented plan. Private schools that are for-profit are not covered under AHERA, but many states have similar requirements.
A: No. AHERA does not require the removal of all asbestos. Materials in good condition can often remain in place if they are properly managed and monitored.
A: Schools must perform a comprehensive inspection initially, conduct surveillance every six months, and re-inspect all known or suspected ACMs every three years.
A: Only individuals accredited by an EPA-approved training provider can conduct AHERA inspections, develop management plans, or oversee response actions.
A: The Designated Person ensures compliance with AHERA, oversees inspections and recordkeeping, arranges training for staff, and communicates with parents, teachers, and regulatory agencies.
A: The AMP must be maintained at each school building and made available for review by parents, staff, and representatives of EPA or state agencies.
A: If ACM is damaged or deteriorating, immediate steps should be taken to repair, encapsulate, or remove it by qualified asbestos abatement professionals.
Managing asbestos in schools isn’t just about meeting regulatory requirements—it’s about protecting the health and safety of students and staff. By following AHERA’s inspection and documentation requirements, schools can maintain a safe environment and remain compliant with federal law.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or technical advice. Always consult EPA guidelines and accredited asbestos professionals when implementing asbestos management practices.