As a result of federal legislation (Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act-AHERA), each primary and secondary school in the nation is required to complete a stringent inspection for asbestos and to develop a plan of management for all asbestos-containing building materials. The Ripon Area School District has a goal to be in full compliance with this law and is following the spirit, as well as, the letter of the law. As a matter of policy, the district shall continue to maintain a safe and healthful environment for our community’s youth and employees.
In keeping with this legislation, all buildings (including portables and support buildings) owned or leased by the Ripon Area School District were inspected by EPA accredited inspectors and an independent laboratory analyzed samples. Based on the inspection, the school prepared and the state approved a comprehensive management plan for handling the asbestos located within its buildings safely and responsibly.
Furthermore, the Ripon Area School District, has completed the 3-year Re-inspections required by AHERA. Our district buildings, where asbestos-containing materials were found, are under repair, removal and Operation and Maintenance. This past year Ripon Area School District conducted the following with respect to its asbestos containing building materials:
- Continued to implement our Operations and Maintenance Program.
Federal Law requires a periodic walk-through (called “surveillance”) every six months of each area containing asbestos. Environmental Management Consulting, Inc. will accomplish this under contract. Short-term workers (outside contractors – i.e., telephone repair workers, electricians and exterminators) must be provided information regarding the location of asbestos in which they may come into contact. All short-term workers shall contact the lead maintenance person before commencing work to be given this information.
The Ripon Area School District has a list of the location(s); types(s) of asbestos containing materials found in that school building and a description and timetable for their proper management. A copy of the Asbestos Management Plan is available for review in the school office. Copies are available at 25 cents per page. Questions related to the plan should be directed to Jason Schneider of Environmental Management Consulting, Inc. at 920-648-6343 or by contacting Ripon Area School District at 920-748- 4600.
