Asbestos Found in Primary School

Article Added May 18th, 2007 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story

A Washington grade school was temporarily shut down due to findings of asbestos in a kindergarten classroom. The problem was dealt with swiftly, and school officials stated that there is no danger.

The Environmental Protection Agency showed up for class this Monday at the Stewart Elementary School in Washington State. Along with kindergarten students, the EPA was trying to get into the classroom, although for very different reasons. Students and parents were greeted with duct tape and signs posted on the door advising people to stay out due to asbestos. The asbestos was found after glue that kept tiles together became unstuck, exposing the asbestos to the air. Quality test were conducted and results are expected back later this week.

            The asbestos issue, though a health concern, seemed to be under control. The affected area was sealed off from the rest of the school, keeping airborne particles to a minimum. Asbestos is dangerous only if it is breathed in, where the particles can become stuck in the lungs. Asbestos exposure can lead to emphysema and mesothelioma, an aggressive type of lung cancer. Mesothelioma can take years to develop, although school officials stated that there was no danger to either students or faculty.

Article Added May 18th, 2007 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story