In October 1986, the U.S. Congress enacted the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA). Under this law, comprehensive regulations were developed to address the issue of asbestos containing building materials in our nation’s schools. The regulations require that all Kindergarten through 12th grade educational systems must provide for the inspection of their school facilities for asbestos containing materials. When asbestos containing materials are found, the school must develop a comprehensive asbestos management program to ensure that the school facility is free of any potential health hazards that may be related to the presence of asbestos building materials.

The District has contracted USA Environmental Management, Inc. (USAEMI) to provide AHERA-related Asbestos Management Program administration. In July 2005 and January 2005, USAMEI completed a surveillance inspection of the asbestos-containing material in all district facilities. The AHERA regulation requires that this inspection be conducted every six months.

All Asbestos Management Program documents are available for review during normal business hours at each school administrative office and in the office of the Director of Facilities Management, Maintenance and Transportation Building, 1000 Davistown Road. Copies of the Asbestos Management Plan can be obtained with payment of a nominal copying charge.

For additional information regarding the Gloucester Township Public Schools Asbestos Management Program you may contact:

Sani Umar

Facilities Supervisor

856-227-7688, Extension 4100