Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA)

Mineral found in rock formations. When separated from rock, it becomes a fluffy fibrous material that has many uses.

Chrysotile (most common), Amosite, Crocidolite, Anthrophylite, Tremolite and Actinolite

Construction Industry: For buildings constructed prior to 1988, about 2/3 of all asbestos produced was used for cement, roofing, plastics, insulation and floor tile.

Automotive Industry: Widely used as friction material in brake and clutch linings – also as undercoating to protect against corrosion.

Textile Industry: Fireproof clothing and staffs’ equipment, fire-resistant curtains for theaters and schools.
Health Hazards of Asbestos

If air containing asbestos dust is inhaled, the small sharp fibers may work their way into the lung tissue and remain embedded for life – a constant source of irritation.

Various Factors:

 

1.Intensity of asbestos dust
2.Individual susceptibility
3.Fiber size and variety
4.Presence of other pollutants (cigarette smoke)

Asbestosis: A disease in which lungs are irritated by inhaled asbestos dust – characterized by fibrotic changes in the lung tissue and scarring in the thickening of the lung wall. Breathing becomes difficult, thus causing a strain on the heart. Usually appears 10-20 years after exposure.

Othelioma: A cancer of the chest or abdominal lining, which is rare except in people exposed to asbestos. Usually fatal within one year of the first symptom.

Cancer: Of respiratory system – is much more common in asbestos workers than in the general public. There is also a higher rate of cancer of the digestive system.

Every school (K thru 12) must have their buildings inspected by state certified inspectors. This information is compiled by a certified asbestos planner into an Asbestos Management Plan. This Plan also includes information on subsequent inspections, testing, remedial actions, and any notifications to teachers, parents, and contractors each school must have their Asbestos Management Plan on file in the administration office and available for review for those who desire to see it. Getting acquainted with your plan is the best way to avoid disturbing asbestos in your school.

The Asbestos Management Plan describes the type, amount, location and condition of asbestos at the time of the report. Visual inspection is the most important way to recognize damaged material. Any material containing asbestos that has become broken or damaged and may be releasing fibers to the air should be reported to management as soon as possible. In turn, management will notify the asbestos coordinator at the Diocese of Harrisburg.

1. Inspect all buildings as required under AHERA law, and prepare an Asbestos Management Plan for each
school.
2. Perform surveillance inspections of all schools every six months, and a formal re-inspection every three years (see section #4 of the Asbestos Management Plan).
3. Provide two-hour awareness training for all custodial and maintenance staff.
4. Notification through proper channels to all workers, occupants, parents/legal guardians of occupants (this report).
5. Notification/documentation to all contractors who work in each school to meet the Right-to-Know rules.
6. Complete all asbestos remedial actions in a timely fashion (see section #6 of Asbestos Management Plan for work performed, if any).
a. Description of work performed in past 12 months:
Operations and Maintenance
b. Description of work planned for next 12 months. If no work is planned, then specify O & M for this section:
Operations and Maintenance
7. Notification through proper channels to all workers/occupants, parents and/or legal guardians of occupants (this report).
8. The six-month periodic surveillance inspection and one re-inspection will be continued during the next year.