Building hazards

Learn about different health hazards — molds, pests, chemicals, and others — that are sometimes present in schools and what you can do about them.

• Access to toilet facilities
  OSHA requirements for access to toilet facilities in schools.
• Asbestos
  The precise risk of disease from low-level, short-term exposure to asbestos is unknown. There is no scientific evidence that casual exposure to asbestos — such as the amounts typically found in schools — will cause a problem.
• Bed bugs
  Information about how to handle bed bug infestations in schools.
• Carbon dioxide
• Protocol for construction work in occupied school buildings
  The UFT and the DOE have developed a site-construction protocol that requires contractors to implement protective methods and procedures to safeguard students and staff.
• Energy conservation
  Junior Energy's mission is to work in classrooms and schools to help children discover how they can positively impact the planet by engaging their parents, family, friends and neighbors in small, simple actions.
• Flammable storage cabinets
  The storage of dangerous chemicals, volatile flammable oils and liquids should be confined to metal cabinets vented at top and bottom.
• Indoor air quality
• Indoor temperature regulations
  This booklet describes the major sources of indoor air pollution and the measures that can be taken to improve indoor air quality. It also discusses how the UFT can assist school staff to resolve indoor air pollution problems.
• Pest management
• Laboratory standards
• Lead
  Lead hazards in paint and water.
• Making schools green
  Ideas and initiatives to promote sustainability and environmental health in NYC schools.
• Mercury
  Information about how to prevent and address exposure to mercury.
• Mold
  Practical information about the risks and issues concerning mold in schools.
• PCBs in city schools