Beacon Elementary in Montesano, Washington began large scale renovations at the start of the school year.  While remodeling one part of the school, asbestos was discovered in the mastic behind the chalkboards which required safe removal.  Now, more of the asbestos containing mastic has been found in another building, both of which were constructed in 1969.

In the past, asbestos fibers were commonly added to backing and adhesive materials, such as mastic, to strengthen, increase durability, and fireproof.  Asbestos is the name for a group of naturally occurring minerals composed of small fibers.  The extensive use of asbestos containing products in the construction of schools school led to the creation of federal regulations in regards to managing, removing, or repairing any materials suspected to contain the toxic substance.

The presence of asbestos containing materials does not create a health hazard for building occupants IF the asbestos is in good condition and is not disturbed or damaged.  If, however, asbestos containing materials are damaged, deteriorated, or disturbed, they can release microscopic fibers into the air.  Once asbestos is inhaled or ingested, it can cause several serious illnesses, including malignant mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is an incurable form of cancer that affects the sac lining of the chest (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum) or heart (pericardial.)  Mesothelioma is directly linked with exposure to asbestos.  Due to a long latency period, it can take 10 to 40 years for symptoms of mesothelioma to develop, hindering early diagnosis and intervention.

Because the asbestos found in the second building at Beacon is well contained in the mastic behind the blackboards, construction will be delayed until students are on Spring Break.  Until then, there is no threat to public health since the asbestos can only become airborne if disturbed. 

At the time of removal, all federal and state guidelines will be followed and trained, certified asbestos abatement workers will be used to ensure no contamination occurs.

School officials do not anticipate any interruption of normal school activities or delays in construction due to the find.  If you or anyone you know is concerned about asbestos exposure in the workplace, call toll free at 1-800-440-4262 and speak to one of our expert asbestos attorneys who specialize in mesothelioma litigation. 

This entry was posted on Monday, October 26th, 2009 at 9:16 am and is filed under Asbestos Exposure. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.