Asbestos Should Be Allowed In Schools

The problem

A type of mineral fibre called asbestos is present in the building material of many older Region of Peel schools. This fibre needs to be removed because it is an odourless and tasteless product that when breathed in, can cause serious health problems such as mesothelioma, a fatal cancer that affects the lungs, as well as other lung-related diseases. Unfortunately, many cash-strapped schools in Canada are following Health Canada’s ruling that asbestos is safe when contained. That means that if the product is in good shape, there is no need to remove it. However, many countries disagree with this, including Britain, Australia, Japan, Sweden, Germany and Denmark; all of which have gotten rid of asbestos completely. Two sides to the story

Asbestos was very common before 1985, which is why all the schools made before that time likely have it in their construction. There is a big debate on whether or not it will be banned completely and both sides of this discussion have many good points.

This is why they think it would be better to leave the product alone and not remove it. Spokesperson Carla Pereira told the News that asbestos should often not be a concern as long as it is maintained properly. “It’s important to understand that the presence of asbestos in our schools is not a health risk. Health concerns only arise if asbestos is crumbled or pulverized,” said Pereira. This means that in its regular state, asbestos is harmless, but once it is crumbled into finer pieces capable of being breathed in, it is very dangerous. Health Canada has made several steps in trying to fix this situation, such as giving teachers, students, and faculty safety lessons on avoiding