Clapper, Patti, Schweizer and Mason

A former school building in North Iowa has been slated for demolition after initial efforts to sell were unsuccessful. Because the building was constructed in the time period where asbestos was commonly used, it must first be cleared of all asbestos containing materials (ACMs) before demolition can begin.

 

Asbestos does not pose a health hazard as long as it stays intact and in good condition.   However, once asbestos is disturbed, such as during demolition, it can become dangerous as it can be released into the air. 

 

Asbestos is classified as a toxic substance, and is known to cause mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. When asbestos is inhaled or ingested, fibers can become lodged in the lining of the heart, abdomen or lungs and decades later lead to the development of mesothelioma. Due to a long latency period, symptoms of mesothelioma often do not appear until 10 to 40 years after initial exposure. 

 

Because of the known dangers of asbestos, federal and state agencies now mandate that all ACMs must be removed from buildings before they are torn down in order to prevent exposure to workers and those in the nearby vicinity.

 

The SCMT School Board agreed to pay close to $80,000 to remove the asbestos according to environmental safety guidelines, and then tear down and remove the former school. After such measures are taken, they will put the property up for sale again.