The Critical Importance of Environmental Testing in Schools
Keeping Our Children Safe from Hidden Hazards
As guardians of the next generation, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that schools are not only places of academic growth but also havens of health and safety. Environmental testing in schools plays a pivotal role in identifying hidden hazards that can adversely affect students, teachers, and staff. Among the most common and concerning environmental threats in educational buildings are Asbestos, Radon, Mold, and Water Damage, making proactive detection and management of these issues essential for maintaining a safe learning environment.
Asbestos: The Silent Threat in Older Buildings
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that was widely used in construction materials throughout much of the twentieth century. Many school buildings constructed before the 1980s may contain Asbestos in insulation, floor tiles, ceiling tiles, pipe coverings, and even paint! In fact, in older schools, Asbestos materials were even used on the back of basketball hoops, woven into stage curtains, and installed on walls for sound dampening. Asbestos is dangerous because when its fibers become airborne and are inhaled, they can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
Testing for asbestos is crucial in schools, especially during renovation or demolition projects, as disturbing these materials can release hazardous fibers into the air. Given the particularly long latency period of asbestos-related diseases, early detection and management are vital.
What to do if Asbestos is found:
Most schools are required to include Asbestos material identification and maintenance in their building management plan, but due to the number of Asbestos-containing materials often found in schools, this can be a challenge. If Asbestos is discovered, the recommended approach is usually to leave undisturbed, intact materials in place while ensuring they are regularly monitored for damage. If the asbestos-containing materials are damaged, are at risk of being damaged, or will be disturbed by planned construction, professional remediation is necessary. Asbestos Abatement requires qualified and properly licensed teams to ensure this work is performed safely and properly.
Radon: The Invisible Gas
Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas produced naturally by the decay of uranium in the soil and rock beneath our feet. It can enter school buildings through cracks and gaps in foundations, where it can collect at high levels indoors. Long-term exposure to elevated Radon levels is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States after smoking, and children are particularly vulnerable due to their developing respiratory systems.
Unfortunately, because you can’t see, taste, or smell Radon gas, it could be collecting inside schools without you even knowing. This makes testing for Radon in homes, businesses, and schools incredibly important, because its presence cannot be detected without specialized equipment. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that all schools test for Radon to ensure levels remain below the recommended action threshold.
What to do if radon is found:
If Radon testing reveals levels at or above the EPA’s action level (4 pCi/L or higher), mitigation measures should be implemented by a qualified and properly licensed Radon Mitigation Company. These may include improving ventilation, sealing foundation cracks, and installing sub-slab depressurization systems. Regular follow-up testing is essential to verify the effectiveness of remediation efforts, evaluate adjustments that may be necessary, and maintain a safe indoor environment.
Mold: The All-Too-Common Allergen
Mold can grow in any indoor environment where moisture is present, often resulting from leaks, humidity, or water damage. Mold spores can be inhaled and cause a range of health problems, from mild allergic reactions to severe respiratory conditions, especially for children with asthma or weakened immune systems. Mold also degrades building materials and can lead to costly repairs if unchecked.
Testing for mold is important in schools because children spend extended periods indoors, and mold exposure risks can accumulate. Recent research into the effects of exposure to mold spores and their mycotoxins has shown that there may be a link between some chronic health issues and respiratory problems and long-term mold exposure – particularly for children with developing lungs and immune systems. Inspections typically include visual assessments and, when necessary, air or surface sampling to identify hidden growth.
What to do if mold is found:
If mold is detected, the affected area should be isolated, and any water intrusion sources must be identified and repaired. Professional Mold Remediation by qualified professionals is recommended to remove contaminated materials and ensure thorough cleaning and drying of the affected areas. Post-remediation testing is recommended to confirm the effectiveness of the cleanup and ensure the learning environment is safe before reoccupation.
Water Damage: The Underlying Issue
Water damage often underpins the presence of mold and can also compromise building integrity, electrical systems, and indoor air quality. Sources of water damage in schools include roof leaks, plumbing failures, or flooding from severe weather. Unaddressed water damage can foster mold and bacteria growth and attract pests, compounding health risks for teachers, faculty, and students.
Routine environmental testing for signs of water intrusion is essential in preventing larger issues and ensuring early intervention. Infrared cameras and moisture meters are commonly used to detect hidden leaks and dampness.
What to do if water damage is found:
If water damage is identified, immediate action should be taken to stop the source of the moisture. Damaged materials such as drywall, ceiling tiles, or carpets may need to be removed and replaced if saturated and any affected building materials should be dried thoroughly to prevent further issues. Due to the size of many schools and the fact that not all areas see regular use, preventative maintenance and regular inspections are key to avoiding recurring problems.
Environmental testing in schools is a fundamental aspect of safeguarding the health and well-being of our children and educational staff. By diligently monitoring for hazards such as Asbestos, Radon, Mold, and Water Damage, schools can prevent health problems, reduce costly repairs, and offer peace of mind to families.
We hope this information was helpful and answered some questions about how we can ensure that our schools are safe for our children and the educators that prepare them for the future. Proactive action ensures that learning takes place in environments that are as healthy and inspiring as the lessons taught within their walls.
As always, if you have additional questions, or need assistance with Asbestos, Radon, Mold, or Water Damage issues, our team is happy to help!
Provided by Disaster Blaster August, 2025