Asbestos Found At Brookfield High School

An asbestos presence was confirmed Tuesday, following an inspection of suspicious looking exhaust ducts discovered over the weekend at Brookfield High School. According to initial evaluations, the material is non-friable and poses no threat at this time.

 The abandoned ducts were discovered above the ceiling by workers tracing a water leak in room 240, which serves as the social studies computer lab. The room was immediately closed to students and staff as a precaution, and will remain restricted until further tests are conducted and a plan of action is determined.

Testing is being conducted by Dr. Mark Granville, longtime consultant for the district in asbestos evaluation and management. Granville took samples from the area Monday and confirmed the presence of asbestos Tuesday.

Superintendent Bivona sent an announcement notifying the community of the situation. The area was "discovered and immediately secured," according to Bivona, who also stated that safety of students and staff is  his top priority. "We strive to be transparent in reporting these situations."   

According to Bivona, Granville will be conducting further evaluations over the next day or two. An air test will likely be the next step in the process. Granville will suggest a plan of action when they have the results and a clear understanding of the situation. There is no concern at this time that the asbestos is more widespread than room 240.

Granville is a senior consultant at Brooks Environmental Consulting based in Norwalk, CT.   He has worked as a consultant for the district for several years and is well informed of the specific issues facing the district and the school buildings. He most recently consulted on the asbestos abatement project for the Center Elementary School boiler room, which was completed in July of 2009.

The original water leak that led to the discovery was related to a roof problem, and has since been repaired. Major work on the roof at BHS is expected to start this summer.