Asbestos in Philadelphia Schools: A Growing Health Concern

The issue of asbestos in Philadelphia’s schools has resurfaced with urgency, following multiple cases of cancer among school staff, including a long-serving teacher diagnosed with mesothelioma. While this matter is happening in one city, it highlights a national problem. Thousands of old school facilities across the United States still contain hazardous asbestos materials, which pose a potential risk to teachers, learners, and staff.

The Hidden Danger in Old School Infrastructure

The dangers of asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral once widely used in the construction industry due to its properties, are now widely known. Unfortunately, this substance is still in thousands of schools across the nation. In Philadelphia alone, approximately 300 old school buildings contain asbestos-contaminated materials. Asbestos can be found in many parts of these buildings, including floor tiles, pipe insulation, ceiling panels, and wall materials. Over time, as buildings age and materials break down or are disturbed during repairs or renovations, asbestos fibers can be released into the air. If inhaled, these fibers can become lodged in the lungs and eventually cause serious illnesses like mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. While efforts have been made to temporarily or partially close some schools in Philadelphia for asbestos abatement, the potential for exposure remains a huge concern.

Mesothelioma Diagnoses Raise Alarm

Over the last few years, the potential for mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases has become a reality in Philadelphia’s school community. Years ago, a teacher who dedicated decades to the public school system was diagnosed with mesothelioma, a rare but aggressive form of cancer that is primarily caused by asbestos exposure. This illness affects the mesothelium (the lining covering several internal organs). Another teacher is currently fighting cancer and has sued the district, citing years of asbestos exposure at Frankford High School, which was closed two years ago for asbestos remediation.

Managing Asbestos in Schools

Managing the problem of asbestos in learning institutions across the U.S. is not just a health concern. It also presents significant administrative and financial challenges. Federal laws require all school districts to regularly inspect their facilities for asbestos and maintain current management plans. Unfortunately, the Philadelphia School District faces substantial financial obstacles. The district requires approximately $5 billion to fix the deteriorating infrastructure comprehensively.

To protect students, teachers, and staff against asbestos and its risks, the Philadelphia School District has implemented some protective measures, including conducting detailed environmental inspections and developing “swing space” plans to relocate learners and staff during asbestos remediation efforts temporarily. Nevertheless, these initiatives are under rigorous scrutiny. A federal investigation led by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) suggests that the district’s measures have been inadequate to guarantee the safety of students, staff, and faculty. Recently, a board meeting aimed at finalizing an agreement regarding asbestos management was postponed, suggesting unresolved issues and potential deficiencies in the district’s existing strategy.

The issue in Philadelphia is a warning to other older schools nationwide. Mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses can be prevented with prompt action. As the Philadelphia School District strives to remedy the situation, other regions should be keen to act to prevent similar disasters.

Nationwide Mesothelioma Lawyers

If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced nationwide mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help pay for your medical treatment.