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epa set to inspect k-12 schools

The Environmental Protection Agency plans to inspect K-12 schools to determine if they comply with safe storage and handling of chemicals. These visits will be unannounced so schools need to be aware of a possible visit at any time.

An EPA official said: “High schools should be aware that mismanagement of their chemicals and wastes may not only harm students, staff and faculty — they may also be violations of EPA regulations that could result in enforcement actions with penalties.”

Colleges in the state have been under inspection for some time. Dangers include chemicals stored in back rooms and closets and then forgotten. The EPA will be looking at improper use, storage and disposal of:

• Chemicals, computer and electronic equipment;
• Fluorescent lamps and other mercury-containing equipment; and
• Picric acid, ethers and sodium metals.