the 1986 Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA)

The 1986 Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) is U.S. law that requires schools to identify, assess, and properly manage asbestos-containing materials to protect students and staff. It mandates comprehensive inspections, the development of management plans, and regular re-inspections to prevent asbestos exposure. The law aims to minimize health risks associated with asbestos, a material linked to lung diseases, by ensuring schools handle it safely and transparently. AHERA also sets guidelines for training and certification of workers involved in asbestos operations within educational facilities.