Asbestos was widely used in school construction materials before the 1970s
Posted on: July 2, 2024Asbestos is frequently found in construction products used in school buildings, leading to exposure for millions of students and school staff. Before 1980, asbestos was a common component in various building materials. Nearly half of all primary and secondary school buildings in the United States were constructed between 1950 and 1969, a period when asbestos use was at its peak. This widespread use has left many educational facilities with a legacy of asbestos-containing materials.
Throughout the 1970s, the federal government began regulating asbestos use due to its health risks. By the 1980s, strict regulations significantly curtailed its use in new construction projects. Despite these regulations, many older school buildings still contain asbestos, posing potential health risks if the materials deteriorate. The regulation efforts reduced the prevalence of asbestos in newer buildings, but older structures remain a concern.
There is no safe level of asbestos exposure, but it is less dangerous when the material is in good condition. However, with the average age of U.S. schools being about 44 years, the asbestos materials in these buildings are likely to be aging and potentially deteriorating. This increases the risk of asbestos fibers being released into the air, endangering the health of those within the school. Regular maintenance and proper management of these materials are crucial to minimize exposure risks.