Montpelier Schools Reopen with the Threat of Mesothelioma Resolved

The Montpelier School District's problems appear to be over with the news that Main Street Middle School has been cleared of asbestos contamination. The Vermont school is now open to the public, and will be ready for the first day of school on September 2.

Asbestos issues in the Montpelier school district lingered for several weeks, eventually causing multiple schools to open several days late. Repeated asbestos-related issues and the high risk of contracting mesothelioma at Main Street Middle School were the primary concerns.

The problems began almost a month ago, when Main Street Middle School was closed by the state Department of Health due to asbestos contamination. The closure was enforced on July 28 after a DOH safety inspector found workers at the school using improper practices to remove asbestos-containing floor tiles

Employees of the contracting company were chipping asbestos tiles off the floor in preparation for laying new tiles. This method of removal can cause inhalable asbestos fibers to be released, and may result in the contraction of pleural mesothelioma. The workers did not use face masks or air-sampling pumps to monitor air quality while the asbestos was being removed.

In addition, classroom doors were left open, and there were no barriers around the work area to prevent other workers from being exposed. The project was subsequently shut down, and all contractors, employees, and staff using the building were asked to vacate.

Two other district schools were temporarily closed following the incident, as it was discovered they too were using the same contractor to have work completed. Asbestos contamination was the main concern for these schools as well.

Recently this week, results of asbestos tests at Main Street Middle School revealed the asbestos removal project was a success. Air and surface tests came back negative for asbestos, and the school was allowed to reopen for the public and staff.