Large amount of asbestos found in elementary school

By Na Jeong-ju

An elementary school in Jeonju, North Jeolla Province, was closed temporarily Thursday after a large amount of asbestos, a Class-A cancer-causing substance, was detected in classrooms.

“The amount of white asbestos found at three of the school’s classrooms was 70 times more than the legally permitted level,” the Korean Federation for Environmental Movement said in a press release.

“We recommended a temporary closure of the school and immediate health checkups for all the students and teachers.”

The inhalation of asbestos is known to cause respiratory diseases such as asbestosis and lung cancer. The material was widely used among manufacturers and builders in the past for its resistance to fire and heat, as well as electrical and chemical damage.

After related health risks and potential environmental damage were recognized, the government banned the use of the substance in construction materials and consumer goods in January 2009. It also made it compulsory for building owners to hire demolition experts to tear down structures made with materials containing asbestos.

Previously widely used, it has been detected almost everywhere, from industrial sites to consumers goods, including drugs and baby powder.

The school, whose name has not been revealed, was constructed decades ago, and recently underwent renovation work.

The environmental group said the builders didn’t wear masks or take other required safety measures while completing the repairs at the school.

“Our survey shows more than 90 percent of materials used to construct schools contain asbestos. We need to strengthen regulations on handling such materials and set up air-cleaning systems in classrooms,” the group said.