In the past, Asbestos was used extensively in building materials because of its insulating, sound-absorbing, and fire retarding capabilities. Virtually any building constructed before the late 1970s contained some asbestos. Intact and undisturbed asbestos materials generally do not pose a health risk. Asbestos materials, however, can become hazardous when, due to damage or deterioration over time, they release fibers. If the fibers are inhaled, they can lead to health problems, such as cancer and asbestosis.

In 1986, Congress passed the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) which requires schools to be inspected to identify any asbestos-containing building materials. Unsuspected asbestos-containing building materials were located, sampled, and rated according to condition and potential hazard. Every three years Harrison County Schools has conducted a reinspection to determine whether the condition of the known or assumed asbestos-containing building materials (ACBM) has changed and to make recommendations on managing or removing the ACBM. At the last reinspection conducted on July 3, 2024, all materials listed in the Management Plan as asbestos-containing (or assumed to be asbestos-containing) have been inspected and found to be in good condition.

The laws further require an asbestos management plan to be in place by July 1989. Harrison County Schools has developed a plan, as required which has been continually updated.

The following buildings contain no asbestos-containing building materials, therefore no operations and maintenance programs or future inspections are required:  Big Elm Elementary, Bridgeport Middle, Johnson Elementary, Lincoln Middle, Mountaineer Middle, Nutter Fort Elementary, Robert C. Byrd High, Simpson Elementary, and Victory Elementary.

It is the intention of Harrison County Schools to comply with all Federal and State regulations controlling asbestos and to take whatever steps are necessary to ensure students and employees a healthy and safe environment in which to learn and work. You are welcome to review a copy of the asbestos management plan in the school district administrative office or administrative office of the school during regular business hours. Danny Dennison, Direction/Coordinator of Maintenance and Facilities is our designated asbestos program coordinator. All inquiries regarding the asbestos plan and asbestos-related issues should be directed to him at 304-326-7494.