Minnesota schools, like those in most other states, are gearing up for or have already begun a new school year. It is understandable that parents might have certain concerns as their children head back to their classrooms. Some kids are new students. Others might have learning disabilities or social issues that make their parents especially anxious. No parent, however, should have to worry that their child might become ill due to asbestos exposure at school.
Sadly, there are have been numerous schools in recent years that have had to inform faculty, students and parents of asbestos-related problems. In fact, elementary school students in another state were given letters to take home to their parents or guardians on a recent Wednesday. It was not a letter about Open House night or some other fun event taking place at the school. Instead, it was a letter informing parents that there are materials in the school building that contain asbestos.
In the state where this took place, it is an annual requirement to send such letters home for all schools built in the 1970s or earlier. However, parents’ concerns are understandably increased this year because roof work and construction took place at the school, which could have disturbed the asbestos. Hammering, drilling, scraping or otherwise manipulating materials containing asbestos greatly increases the risk for injury.
Asbestos-containing materials in the school include piping, ceiling tiles and flooring. There is no safe amount of asbestos exposure. Therefore, any Minnesota parent concerned about a particular school situation can seek guidance and support from an attorney who is experienced in asbestos litigation.
