2022-2023 asbestos notification

As a result of recent federal legislation (Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act-AHERA), each primary and secondary school in the nation is required to complete a stringent inspection for asbestos and to develop a plan of management for all asbestos-containing building materials. The Lester Prairie Schools have a goal to be in full compliance with this law and are following the spirit, as well as, the letter of the law. As a matter of policy, the district shall continue to maintain a safe and healthy environment for our community's youth and employees.

In keeping with this legislation, all buildings (including portables and support buildings) owned or leased by the Lester Prairie Schools were inspected by EPA-accredited inspectors, and samples were analyzed by an independent laboratory. Based on the inspection, the school prepared and the state approved a comprehensive management plan for handling the asbestos located within its buildings safely and responsibly.

Furthermore, the Lester Prairie Schools have completed their 3-year re-inspection required by AHERA. Our district buildings, where asbestos-containing materials were found, are under repair, removal and Operations and Maintenance.

Federal law requires a periodic walk-through (called surveillance) every six months of each area containing asbestos. In addition, the law requires all buildings to be re-inspected three years after a management plan is in effect. MacNeil Environmental, Inc. will accomplish this under contract.

Short-term workers (outside contractors, i.e., telephone repair workers, electrician and exterminators) must be provided information regarding the location of asbestos in which they may come into contact. All short-term workers shall contact the lead maintenance person before commencing work to be given this information.

The Lester Prairie Schools have a list of the locations, types of asbestos-containing materials found in that school building, and a description and timetable for their proper management.  A copy of the Asbestos Management Plan is available for review in the school office. Copies are available at 25 cents per page. Questions related to the plan should be directed to Lester Prairie Schools at (320) 395-2521.