Alarming Shortcomings in NYC Schools' Asbestos Inspections

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News Summary

An audit reveals that 82% of NYC schools with hazardous asbestos haven’t been inspected, raising serious safety concerns.

Alarming Shortcomings in NYC Schools’ Asbestos Inspections

The New York City Department of Education is facing significant scrutiny after an audit by Comptroller Brad Lander revealed a shocking reality: a staggering 82% of schools containing hazardous asbestos have not been inspected over a three-year span. The findings, released this week, underline a dire failure in compliance with the federal Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA), which mandates strict inspection protocols for schools housing asbestos-containing materials.

Insufficient Inspections Undermine Safety

According to the report, from March 2021 to March 2024, only 257 out of 1,431 schools—a mere 18%—received their mandated three-year inspections. Meanwhile, between May 2023 and April 2024, the Department of Education managed to complete only 22% of required periodic six-month inspections.

The educational environment has become a concerning topic for parents, teachers, and advocates, all raising alarms about potential health risks associated with asbestos exposure. Asbestos—a known carcinogen—can lead to severe health issues such as mesothelioma and asbestosis, putting both students and staff at risk.

Focus Areas: Brooklyn’s Dismal Compliance Rates

Particularly alarming is the fact that Brooklyn holds the highest number of schools with asbestos while simultaneously reporting the lowest rate of compliance for inspections. The audit excoriated the Department of Education for maintaining poor record-keeping practices, exacerbating an already dangerous situation.

Call for Action and Improvement

In light of these findings, Lander’s office has proposed nine actionable recommendations for the Department of Education and the School Construction Authority. These recommendations include raising awareness about asbestos regulations, developing robust policies for managing asbestos, and establishing a reliable record-keeping system to ensure accountability moving forward.

The Department of Education has stated that they operate under the assumption that all building materials could potentially contain asbestos. They have implemented precautions, such as conducting annual training for custodial staff, to help mitigate risks. Nevertheless, the lack of completed inspections raises serious doubts about the overall effectiveness of these measures.

Significant Gaps in Oversight

The audit emphasized significant gaps in oversight within the Department of Education, indicating an urgent need for the Adams Administration to take action. Despite custodial staff reportedly conducting regular inspections, the apparent inability to adhere to federal inspection schedules persists as a troubling concern.

Historically, compliance rates with inspection schedules have remained low, averaging only 11% since 1997. The failure to meet federal safety requirements has alarmed parents and community advocates, who have long prioritized the safety and health of children and school staff amid changing standards and regulations.

A Commitment to Safety?

In response to growing concerns, the NYC Public Schools system has declared a commitment to maintain a safe and hygienic environment, free from asbestos hazards. Ongoing efforts and protocols are emphasized, yet the delay in adhering to mandated inspections raises questions about the sincerity and urgency of such commitments.

As the audit underscores the gravity of the situation, the clock is ticking for city officials to resolve these compliance issues and ensure the safety of New York City’s vibrant youth in educational settings. The address of these concerns will play a critical role in determining outcomes for present and future generations.