What is the primary goal of the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA)?

The primary goal of the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) is to ensure proper management of asbestos in schools. This federal law, enacted in response to the health risks associated with asbestos exposure, establishes guidelines for schools to identify and manage asbestos-containing materials. AHERA requires schools to conduct inspections for asbestos, develop management plans, and take necessary actions to protect students and staff from exposure.

The focus of AHERA is specifically on the safety and management of asbestos in educational environments rather than outright banning asbestos or educating the public more broadly. While education and monitoring air quality are important aspects related to asbestos, they are not the central objectives of AHERA. The act places a significant emphasis on institutional responsibility in maintaining a safe environment for students, which underscores why proper management within schools is its primary aim.