Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) letter

October 1, 2018

Dear Faculty, Staff, and Parents/Guardians:

In 1986, Congress passed the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA), which mandated the Asbestos Containing Materials in Schools Rule, 40 CFR Part 763. It requires all primary and secondary school buildings inspected by AHERA accredited inspectors and to identify all asbestos-containing building materials. The rule further requires the development of a management plan by an AHERA accredited management planner that based on the findings of the inspection. The management plan outlines our intent in controlling the potential for exposure to asbestos fibers in our school.

The “Hawaii Administrative Rules”, Chapter 11-502 adopted in February 2001 by the Hawaii State Legislature. These rules essentially mirror the requirements of the AHERA regulations. In both cases, the rule requires our school to notify parents, teachers, and employees of the presence and status of asbestos containing material in our school buildings.

Initial inspection of our school conducted in 1989 identifies some asbestos-containing materials. Since that time, we continue to conduct periodic surveillance in June and December and re-inspections to ensure that the asbestos containing materials remain in good condition and do not pose a hazard to our students and staff.

An asbestos management plan drafted based on our initial inspection and submitted to the Hawaii State Department of Health. It outlines in detail the methods we will use to maintain the material in a safe manner. The management plan updated regularly as asbestos removed or conditions change.

A copy of the management plan is on file in the administrative office and is available for your review during our regular school hours. Should you have any questions, please call the school at (808)313-5300 or the Environmental Services Unit at (808) 784-5067.