Dale Stafslien walked into room 403 on January 21, 2010 to inform the students that they have been to asbestos particles and have a risk of developing lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other harmful health side effects. The cause of the exposure is for cracking tiles and water leaks in the ceiling that caused the plastic wrap around the material to come loose. As to those who do not know what asbestos is, it is a man made material used to insulate and for other purposes. The effects from the asbestos is very uncomfortable.
Stafslien stated, "As the asbestos fibers are inhaled into your system they could attach to your lungs, building up and suffocating you slowly".
The reason asbestos is in the school is because back in the mid to late sixties asbestos was a very popular material used to use in buildings as insulator. Asbestos is well for keeping the heat within the building and is also fire resistant. In the sixties people were not aware of the harmful effects that could come from asbestos. Over time the asbestos throughout the school has been replaced but some parts of the school has not been for example room 403. The chances of developing lung cancer from asbestos is unlikely but is possible.
Stafslien said, "The students who are in room 403 at this time will be locked up and the students will be tested for any asbestos particles and or any health effects that may come from asbestos".
Stafsflien added, "No one is to enter or leave the room until twenty four hours have passed".
The school though is helping out in this situation by covering the students affected by asbestos under the school insurance. The school insurance only applies to those who do not have any previous conditions that would increase the risk for developing harmful health issues. Examples of what would not be covered by the schools insurance would be if you are or were exposed to smoking environments for periods of time and previous health issues such as asthma. There is no known cure for exposures to asbestos. That means later on in life if you have an illness that all evidence points to asbestos as being the cause for this illness that the schools insurance would pay for everything. As long as you weren't exposed to smoking environments and if you didn't have any existing health problems.
Stafslien finished his announcement by saying, "Please stay calm and we will try to make this a comfortable as possible".
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