Our hearts are heavy for our Tennessee neighbors who have suffered during this unimaginable disaster. We are ready to be of service as we get through the next few years and recover. When something like this happens, understanding the risks of renovations and getting back to a safe place, especially for our children, is paramount.
FYI: Asbestos containing materials pose a lower risk when wet but then become a higher risk because they are brittle and the fibers can be more easily friable (pulverized and airborne).
Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) has a page with updates, resources and volunteer opportunities. If you are reading this and you have the means, please help.
Asbestos is not a relic of the past, its presence is still felt in many of Nashville’s educational and public buildings. With health risks linked to asbestos exposure, it’s crucial for remediation professionals and concerned citizens to understand the challenges and solutions for managing this hazardous material. In this article, we’ll explore the extent of the asbestos problem in Nashville’s schools and public institutions, highlight specific concerns, and outline the regulatory framework designed to handle asbestos safely.
The Scope of Asbestos in Nashville’s Schools and Public Buildings
We know asbestos, once a popular material for its fire-resistant properties, is a serious health risk. Yet many older buildings in Tennessee, including schools and public institutions in Nashville, still contain asbestos. Here’s another article about how asbestos containing materials are still prevalent in schools.
Asbestos in Schools
It’s estimated that about one-third of American schools have asbestos, especially those built before the 1980s. This likely applies to several, likely most, schools around and in Nashville. Asbestos can be found in insulation, flooring, ceiling tiles, and other building materials. If these materials are disturbed, they can release harmful fibers into the air, posing significant health risks.
Asbestos in Universities
Vanderbilt University, a major institution in Nashville, has been proactive in addressing its asbestos issues. A recent $2 million project focused on removing asbestos from its Medical Center’s downtown campus highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure a safe environment for students and staff.
Asbestos in Public Buildings
Public buildings across Tennessee, including those in Nashville, may face similar asbestos challenges. For example, Middle Tennessee State University employs third-party environmental consultants to handle asbestos inspections and management. Additionally, the University of Tennessee Martin’s Paul Meek Library has been noted for potential asbestos exposure due to damaged materials.
Navigating the Regulatory Framework: AHERA and Beyond
Managing asbestos in schools and public buildings involves adhering to a combination of federal and state regulations. The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) is a key regulation by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that outlines the responsibilities of schools in managing asbestos.
AHERA Requirements: AHERA mandates that schools conduct initial inspections to identify asbestos-containing materials (ACM) and perform re-inspections every three years. Schools must also develop and maintain asbestos management plans, periodically re-inspect known ACM for damage, provide annual notifications to the community about the availability of these plans, and ensure that only trained and licensed professionals handle asbestos-related activities. The institution must have a trained Operations and Management professional who also conducts periodic surveillance.
*AHERA Regulations Document from the EPA
At least once every 3 years after a management plan is in effect, each local education agency shall conduct a reinspection of all friable and nonfriable known or assumed ACBM in each school building that they lease, own, or otherwise use as a school building” (§ 763.85(b)(1)).
At least once every 6 months after a management plan is in effect, each local education agency shall conduct periodic surveillance in each building that it leases, owns, or otherwise uses as a school building that contains ACBM or is assumed to contain ACBM” (§ 763.92(b)(1)).
*United States, Environmental Protection Agency. “PART 763—ASBESTOS.” Code of Federal Regulations, 52 FR 41846, Oct. 30, 1987, as amended at 60 FR 31922, June 19, 1995.
State-Level Enforcement: In Tennessee, the Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) oversees compliance with AHERA. The Toxic Substances Program within TDEC conducts inspections to ensure that local educational agencies (LEAs) are following the necessary asbestos management practices.
Federal Oversight: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also plays a role in enforcing AHERA regulations. EPA Region 4, which includes Tennessee, provides additional oversight and support for AHERA compliance. The EPA is a valuable resource for inquiries related to asbestos management in schools.
Practical Strategies for Effective Asbestos Management
Effective asbestos management involves several practical strategies:
- Conduct Thorough Inspections: Inspections by certified “asbestos risk assessors” are essential for identifying asbestos-containing materials. These inspections help determine the condition of ACM and whether it poses a risk.
- Assess and Manage Risks: Once asbestos is identified, evaluating its condition is crucial. If the material is in good condition and unlikely to be disturbed, an “in-place” management approach may be appropriate. This approach involves monitoring and maintaining the material to prevent fiber release.
- Safe Removal and Abatement: When asbestos needs to be removed, following proper procedures is essential to avoid releasing harmful fibers. This includes using specialized equipment, ensuring proper containment, and employing trained professionals for the job.
- Communicate with the Community: Keeping the community informed about asbestos management plans and ongoing remediation efforts helps build trust and ensures transparency. Regular updates can alleviate concerns and provide valuable information about safety measures.
- Maintain Detailed Records: Accurate record keeping is vital for compliance and future reference. Schools must and public buildings should maintain detailed records of inspections, management plans, and remediation efforts. These records should be accessible, o for review by the public and regulatory agencies.
Managing asbestos in schools and public buildings is a critical task that requires vigilance, expertise, and adherence to regulatory standards. By understanding the challenges, following effective management strategies, and staying informed about regulatory requirements, abatement professionals and citizens can contribute to a safer environment.
Always Free Consultations
Call Now!
We’ll Call You!
In Metro Nashville, Tennessee and along the Front Range in Colorado — We have technicians close, ready to serve you.
For reliable asbestos testing and remediation services, Integrity Environmental Testing offers comprehensive solutions for homes, commercial spaces, and renovation projects. Our expertise in asbestos management ensures that your property remains safe and compliant with all relevant regulations. If you’re concerned about asbestos in your property or need expert advice on asbestos management, contact Integrity Environmental Testing today.