Many educational buildings across Illinois still contain materials that pose serious health risks to those inside. For decades, builders favored asbestos because it resisted heat and provided excellent insulation.
While these materials are generally safe when they remain intact, they become hazardous once they age or sustain damage. In many older schools, decades of wear and tear have caused these materials to deteriorate.
The use of asbestos in schools
The use of this mineral in educational infrastructure was widespread due to its affordability and durability. Construction projects between the 1940s and the late 1970s relied heavily on these materials to meet fire safety codes.
Architects integrated asbestos into the very bones of school buildings, from pipe insulation to ceiling tiles. Because these materials are often hidden behind walls or above drop ceilings, they can remain present for generations.
The risk of exposure for school workers
School workers face the highest risk of inhaling dangerous fibers during their daily routines. Maintenance crews and janitors often disturb asbestos while repairing leaking pipes or replacing damaged ceiling tiles. Even teachers and former students encounter risks if crumbling insulation in classrooms goes unaddressed.
Once a person inhales these fibers, the particles can become trapped in the lungs for life. Over time, this exposure can lead to severe illnesses like lung cancer or mesothelioma.
Challenges of filing a claim against institutions
Filing a legal claim for asbestos exposure can be a challenge when dealing with public or private institutions. Public schools are covered by immunity laws that protect them from liability in specific circumstances.
Additionally, proving exactly when the exposure occurred requires the analysis of maintenance logs that may be decades old. These complexities require a thorough investigation to determine which party bears the legal responsibility.
Prioritize worker safety in schools
Schools have a basic duty to fix dangerous problems like asbestos as soon as they find them. When an institution fails to do this, holding responsible parties accountable is crucial to ensure that sick workers get the justice they deserve.