A modernization project involving 11 Huntington Beach schools has caused an Ocean View School Board member, John Briscoe, to file an official complaint with Cal/OSHA. Part of the modernization project called for asbestos to be removed from several of the district’s schools, and it was this aspect of the work that drew the attention of local officials.
“I am personally embarrassed, and our district is shamed and chagrined in the face of a community uproar over their children walking around in the middle of asbestos abatement,” said Mr. Briscoe, an eight-year member of the board. “We were told by the district that the asbestos would be removed in summer when kids weren’t here. Then we’re sitting in a board meeting and we found out that, holy socks, it’s being removed right now with kids in schools wandering around all over the place.”
The multi-million-dollar modernization project continued, but following the district’s discovery, all asbestos abatement was immediately put on hold.
Some parents were also under the impression that the work had been done before the students’ return. In the summer, a letter sent regarding the modernization project made no mention of asbestos abatement, and although the school officials have made assurances that the students were not at risk, some concerned parents have still cried foul. “At least get us the information so we can make decisions, on behalf of our own children, whether they should attend school or not,” said Ocean View School District parent Stephanie Green.
The concern stems from the hazardous nature of airborne asbestos, which can cause a variety of respiratory health problems, including mesothelioma, if inhaled. The handling and removal of asbestos must be done by a certified professional to help ensure the safety of the public.