In the city of Summit, New Jersey, the public schools are undergoing various projects this summer, including the removal of dangerous asbestos. Asbestos, once commonly used in insulation, floor tiles, adhesives, and some cements, is now known to sometimes cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other respiratory conditions. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer, can manifest in the lungs, heart, and/or abdomen. Although it has a long latency period, once the initial symptoms develop, mesothelioma patients may only have a few months to live.
All told, the district will spend $15 million on various construction projects this summer. Mechanical work at Summit’s Washington and Franklin schools will include removal of vents, pipes, boilers, and toxic asbestos. At the Lincoln-Hubbard School a roof replacement is underway. The roof project began on June 26, and has been reported to be “going well”. Bids for other projects at the school are being accepted, and include fire alarm work and replacement of the fire doors.
Asbestos removal is often very costly, but is required prior to many repair and renovation projects. This is because tearing down walls can expose asbestos particles, forcing them to become airborne. These airborne particles can be inhaled, and become permanently lodged in the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos removal is complicated, because it is important to seal off areas that are being abated in order to prevent asbestos from traveling elsewhere in the building. Special equipment is required for workers removing asbestos, and asbestos should always be disposed of in accordance with local and federal laws.