Environmental Health Threats Found at Schools

Learn about common environmental contaminants that could be found in the air, water, ground, or walls of school buildings, worsening the health of students and staff. Children compared to adults are especially vulnerable to these contaminants, as their bodies natural defenses are still growing, and their habits are more likely to increase their exposures.

On this page: 

Asbestos 

Public and non-profit private schools have distinct regulatory requirements to protect school children and school employees from asbestos exposure.

Extreme Heat

Children are extra sensitive to high temperatures. Compared to adults, children spend more time outdoors, running, swimming, playing games and sports that expose them to high temperatures. Their bodies’ natural defenses and abilities to regulate heat are still developing, so the consequences of extreme heat can occur quickly, last longer and be more severe. 

Lead

Lead can be found in all parts of our environment – the air, the soil, the water, and even inside buildings and homes. Lead is particularly dangerous to children and even low levels can result issues like behavior and learning problems, lowered IQ and Hyperactivity

Lead and Children:

Lead in Drinking Water:

Mercury

Mercury is dangerous, and mercury poisoning can affect the nervous system, lungs, and kidney. There are still many sources of mercury in schools today like glass thermometers or compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs.

Mold

Moisture control issues in school buildings can lead to mold. Molds produce allergens and irritants which cause allergic reactions and worsen asthma symptoms.

Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)

PCBs are a chemical compound that used to be used in industrial and consumer products.  Although no longer commercially produced in the United States, PCBs may be present in products and materials produced before the 1979 PCB ban. There is potential widespread use of PCB-containing building materials in schools and other buildings constructed or renovated between about 1950 and 1979. PCBs are a probable human carcinogenic and can cause a variety of other health effects.

Radon

Radon is a natural, colorless, and odorless gas that comes from the ground and can leak and build up in buildings and homes. At certain levels it is known to cause lung cancer in people.

Sun Safety

While some exposure to sunlight can be enjoyable, too much can be dangerous. Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can result in a painful sunburn and lead to skin cancer and more. Children are particularly at risk. 

Wildfire Smoke

Children’s lungs are still growing and developing so they are especially vulnerable to smoke . Wildfire smoke can also be particularly harmful to children with asthma, allergies, or other chronic health. 

Noise Pollution

Children often participate in recreational activities that can harm their hearing. This could include band class, sporting events such as football or basketball games, concerts, fireworks, loud toys, video games and using high volume with headphones and audio devices.

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Last updated on July 19, 2024