Federal and state governments have regulations to prevent asbestos exposure in schools


The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA), established in 1986 under the Toxic Substance Control Act, mandates that:

  • All school districts, including public, private non-profit, and religious schools, must inspect their buildings for asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).
  • Schools with ACMs must create and implement asbestos management plans, which are available to parents and staff.
  • Employees must undergo asbestos awareness training before handling materials.
  • Buildings must be inspected every three years after the initial inspection.
  • If asbestos is found, it should be visually checked every six months.
  • School districts must issue annual notifications to employee and parent organizations about asbestos management and removal projects.