Teachers - Mesothelioma Risks
During the middle of the 20th century, schools were being constructed at a rapid pace to accommodate children born during the baby boom. Many of the construction materials used in these schools contained asbestos, a highly fire-resistant material that was once thought to increase the safety of a building. A number of teachers and students were exposed to asbestos in the schools where they worked and studied.
The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) was passed in 1986 to require public and private schools to inspect buildings for asbestos-containing materials. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provided assistance to school officials after it was determined that children and teachers faced serious asbestos risks in schools.
The EPA initially required school district administrators across the nation to inspect their buildings for asbestos and issue notifications to parents and teachers when asbestos-containing materials were found. The original regulations, however, did not indicate how asbestos-containing material should be handled once it was found. In 1984, Congress created a multi-million dollar Asbestos Trust Fund to provide 20-year interest-free loans that enabled school districts to conduct asbestos abatement projects.
Teachers and Asbestos Exposure
As the materials in schools aged, the crumbling asbestos products released asbestos fibers into the air. Over time, floor tiles and drywall became chipped, insulation wore down and asbestos cords became frayed.
The risk of inhaling asbestos fibers was also increased by the typically poor ventilation systems in schools. Airborne asbestos fibers circulated in the air where they could be easily inhaled or ingested by workers at schools. A number of illnesses could result from this exposure including mesothelioma, asbestos and other asbestos-related cancers.
Resources for Teachers
If you taught at a school that was constructed before the 1980s, you may be at a higher risk for asbestos-related diseases and should schedule a screening with an experienced health professional. For assistance with finding a doctor in your area, please contact the Mesothelioma Center’s Doctor Match Program.
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and would like to learn more about this illness, information about mesothelioma is available upon request. For your copy of the customized literature that can help you understand available treatments, open clinical trials and financial aid options, please fill out the form on this page.
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© 2012 The Mesothelioma Center |
Last Modified Thursday, February 9th, 2012 | Disclaimer | Privacy Policy |
The information provided by The Mesothelioma Center is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Sponsored by a law firm concentrating in asbestos litigation, The Peterson Firm, LLP with offices at 1350 Connecticut Ave, NW, Fifth Floor, Washington DC 20036.
