“Fortunately, the problem was discovered by custodians at 6:30 a.m.,” according to a press release issued by Principal Laurie Sullivan. “The system was shut down and the repair was made that morning.”
According to the press release, water leaked onto floors and some floor tiles were damaged. The school department contacted the Vortex company, who visited the school on Monday and took tile samples to assess the damage.
Results from the samples showed asbestos in the adhesive used to install the floor tiles.
“The tile in the hallway does not contain asbestos, but the adhesive does,” according to the press release. “The tile and adhesive in the two classrooms that got wet both contain asbestos.”
Based on the results, representatives from Trust and Clean Care of New England, an asbestos abatement company, assessed conditions at the school on Tuesday afternoon. An air quality testing company also visited the school.
“Based on the opinion of experts we have spoken with, there is not now nor has there been any health hazard posed for students or staff because of this situation,” according to the press release. “The asbestos in the adhesive is not friable and cannot be released into the air.
“The tile that has been lifting, curling and breaking in the hallways does not contain asbestos. It does not pose any health issue.”
“The tile in classrooms is intact and poses no health issues. The same tile has been on the floors of these classrooms since the building's original construction.”
The school, based on advice from the companies, are taking the following steps: using special vacuums to remove all broken pieces of tile from affected  areas; taping all cracked and broken seams; using “air cleaners”; installing carpet over the affected areas; conducting further air samples throughout the building; and taking samples to investigate any possible mold.
During February vacation, the tile in the hallways and affected areas will be removed and replaced.
“We are working at the direction of experts who deal with these types of problems on a regular basis and will make sure that any repair work is done  in full compliance with any state and federal regulations,” according to the press release. “We are grateful for the fast response of Clean Care, OHI and the Trust and their expertise in handling this situation. Please be reassured that we will continue to act pro-actively to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff at Levy.”