The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act was enacted by Congress in 1986. AHERA was enacted to determine the extent of and develop solutions for any problems schools may have with asbestos.

Asbestos has been used as a building material for many years. It is a naturally occurring mineral that is mined primarily in Canada and South Africa. Asbestos properties made it an ideal building material for insulating, sound absorption, decorative plasters, fireproofing and a variety of miscellaneous uses. There have been more than 3,000 different products made using asbestos materials. EPA began action to limit uses of asbestos products in 1973 and most uses of asbestos products as building materials were banned in 1978.

USD 458 has abated all hazardous asbestos and is managing the remaining in a manner which does not present a health hazard.

All ACM (Asbestos Containing Materials) are periodically inspected and additional measures will be taken when needed to protect the health of building occupants. USD 458 operations and maintenance plans are available for review at each building office or the board office during normal school hours.

If you have any questions regarding asbestos at USD 458, please contact the Asbestos Program Manager at the board office 724.1396 or 723.3400.