EPA’s asbestos program for schools, mandated by the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA), and its regulations for schools and other buildings is founded on the principle of “in-place” management of asbestos-containing material (ACM). This approach is designed to prevent asbestos exposure by teaching people to recognize asbestos-containing materials and actively monitor and, where necessary, manage them in place. Removal of ACM is not usually necessary unless the material is severely damaged or will be disturbed by a building demolition or renovation project.What is the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA)?The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA), a provision of the Toxic Substances Control Act, became law in 1986. AHERA requires local education agencies to inspect their schools for asbestos-containing building material and prepare management plans to prevent or reduce asbestos hazards.


EPA provides local education agencies and parents and teachers with information about the AHERA asbestos-in-schools requirements through mailings and other outreach.

Mr. Stacy Merriman is the school coordinator and all inquiries regarding asbestos-related issues should be directed to him at 360.496.5300.