EPA Reaches Settlement with the Scranton, Pennsylvania, School District for Alleged Asbestos-Related Violations
Philadelphia, PA - Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a settlement to resolve alleged violations of the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act with the Scranton, Pennsylvania, public school district.
EPA alleges the school district failed to include all required elements in the asbestos management plans for 15 schools and to maintain complete, updated copies of the asbestos management plans for 19 schools in its administrative office and in the administrative offices of those schools. Under the terms of this settlement, the district has agreed to demonstrate compliance with the relevant regulations in all of its school buildings and submit a certification of compliance.
The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act is the section of the Toxic Substances Control Act that regulates how educational institutions manage asbestos in school buildings. The law requires public school districts and non-profit schools—including charter schools and schools affiliated with religious institutions—to inspect schools for asbestos, prepare management plans, and take action to prevent or reduce asbestos hazards.
For more information on asbestos exposure, visit the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry asbestos webpage and EPA’s website for information on asbestos and school buildings.