Brea School Closed due to Asbestos Concerns after Earthquake

Last month, the Orange County Register reported that parts of an elementary school in Brea would be temporarily closed after an earthquake caused dust and debris in the school.  The school was built in the 1970’s, and the earthquake damaged some materials that are believed to contain asbestos.
 
The article specifically mentioned damage to the ceiling tiles that fell to the floor. Ceiling tiles are a common component of older buildings that may contain asbestos. Many other building materials also used to be made with asbestos, but its use in many of these products was banned or discontinued in the late 1970’s.  Unfortunately, as was the case in Brea, many buildings still contain these materials.
 
“When asbestos containing materials are disturbed, asbestos fibers can be released into the air and settle throughout a building,” said Michael Chapman, Laboratory Manager at LA Testing’s Garden Grove facility.  “You cannot tell with the naked eye if material or dust contains asbestos.  Air, surface and bulk testing can quickly and economically provide the answer.  At LA Testing, we offer all of the supplies and testing services to help determine that indoor environments are safe from asbestos exposure risks.”
 
After an earthquake has occurred, there are additional indoor air quality (IAQ) concerns people need to consider. Lead-based paints may be present in older builders. As these painted surfaces become disturbed and age, they can release lead into the indoor environment.  Last month’s earthquake also caused a number of broken pipes that resulted in flooding events.  Wet building materials can develop mold growth in as short as 24 to 48 hours.

To learn more about asbestos, lead, mold or other IAQ testing services, please visit www.LATesting.com, email info@LATesting.com or call (800) 755-1794. 
 
About LA Testing
LA Testing is California’s leading laboratory for indoor air quality testing of asbestos, mold, lead, VOCs, formaldehyde, soot, char, ash and smoke damage, particulates and other chemicals.  In addition, LA Testing offers a full range of air sampling and investigative equipment to professionals and the general public. LA Testing maintains an extensive list of accreditations including: AIHA LAP LLC., AIHA ELLAP, AIHA EMLAP and AIHA IHLAP, NVLAP, State of California, State of Hawaii Department of Health and other states.  LA Testing along with the EMSL Analytical, Inc. network has multiple laboratories throughout California including South Pasadena, Garden Grove, San Leandro and San Diego.

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