November 14th, 2007

Renovations that were underway at an Illinois school have now resumed after an abatement contract was agreed on. Work had stopped when asbestos was detected in the floors, ceiling and insulation of the building.

When asbestos was detected at an elementary school in Illinois, the schedule and budget for the work had to be reconsidered. After finding some financial relief in a local health fund, the school board opened bidding for the asbestos abatement work in the buildings, agreeing on more than $40,000 worth of work. Though the asbestos caused a setback, safety was the priority of all involved, and other renovations being conducted are being delayed until the abatement is complete.

The asbestos was found in the floors, ceilings and insulation in the school, and has to be removed by licensed contractors. Mishandling and improperly disposing of asbestos can cause health concerns, hence the school holding off on any other renovations until the asbestos could be safely removed. If disturbed, asbestos can fragment into airborne particles, which can be breathed in and adhere to the tissue in the lungs. Asbestos exposure has been linked to emphysema and mesothelioma, a type of deadly lung cancer.