Free Consultation - Call 24/7 (480) 454-6008

Arizona Mesothelioma Lawyer Blog

Asbestos Exposure at Schools

Posted by Michael Throneberry | Mar 06, 2022

Many students, teachers, and school staff are at risk of asbestos exposure because asbestos can still be found in schools. Asbestos still lurks in many products that can be found in schools. According to the EPA, there are asbestos-containing materials in the nation's primary, secondary, and even charter schools. In this article, we talk about, among other things, the risks of asbestos exposure in schools, how asbestos found its way into schools, and common asbestos products in schools.

What is Asbestos?

This is a naturally-occurring mineral made up of fibers that are resistant to corrosion, heat, and electricity. Asbestos was widely used before the 1980s in the construction industry and a variety of products because of its qualities.

There are six types of asbestos. They are;

  • Actinolite
  • Amosite
  • Anthophyllite
  • Chrysotile
  • Crocidolite
  • Tremolite

The Risks of Asbestos Exposure in Schools

Asbestos is usually not dangerous if it is undamaged or left undisturbed. However, when asbestos products are damaged or when they wear down over time, they become harmful. When asbestos products wear down or are damaged, microscopic asbestos fibers become airborne. When a student, teacher, and school staff member inhales airborne asbestos fibers, they can end up developing an asbestos-related disease. Examples of asbestos-related diseases include;

  • Mesothelioma
  • Asbestosis
  • Lung cancer

How Did Asbestos Find its Way Into Schools?

Today, asbestos is not commonly used. However, as already mentioned, asbestos was widely used before the 1980s in the construction industry. Many schools in the U.S. were built before the 1980s. Many schools were built when asbestos was being added to almost all kinds of building materials to increase fire resistance and durability. During that time, people did not know about the dangers of asbestos exposure.

Common Asbestos Products in Schools

Between 1950 and 1978, which is when most American schools were built, asbestos was added to products used in classrooms, teachers' lounges, auditoriums, and even school corridors. Common materials in schools that may contain asbestos include the following:

  • Ceiling tiles
  • Cement sheets
  • Wallboard
  • Pipe wrap insulation
  • Boilers
  • Acoustic panels
  • Duct adhesive
  • Gaskets
  • Wiring insulation
  • Heating ducts and systems
  • Popcorn ceilings
  • Sheetrock
  • Fireproofing materials

Apart from building materials, asbestos can also be found in school supplies. For example, asbestos can be found in some crayons. 

Students May be at Greater Risk Than Adults

According to the EPA, students may be at greater risk of asbestos exposure. This is mainly because of the following reasons:

  • Students generally have a higher breathing rate.
  • Students inhale relatively more often through the mouth than through the nose.
  • Students tend to spend more time near or on the floor, where asbestos fibers are likely to settle.
  • Students are more likely to put things in their mouths that could contain asbestos, such as crayons.

According to the EPA, the above is especially concerning for young children.

Arizona Mesothelioma Lawyers

If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced Arizona mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help pay for your medical treatment to help you and your family live a more comfortable life.

About the Author

Michael Throneberry

Attorney Michael Throneberry graduated from Purdue University with a Civil Engineering degree. He then served with the United States Army...

Contact Us Today

Throneberry Law Group is committed to answering your questions about mesothelioma and asbestos cancer victims law issues in Arizona.

We offer a free consultation and we'll gladly discuss your case with you at your convenience. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Menu