PHOTO: (Submitted Photos)

By Marla Jones, Reporter • marla@southerntorch.com

SYLVANIA, Ala. — Sylvania parents are voicing concerns regarding asbestos being found in the floor after a leak occurred a few weeks ago at Sylvania High School.

Asbestos, if disturbed, is hazardous to human health and could cause illnesses like cancer.

When Southern Torch contacted DeKalb County Superintendent Dr. Jason Barnett, he had this to say:

“First, thank you for your concern and support of Sylvania High School. I appreciate you taking the time to personally reach out to me. As you are aware, there was a leak at Sylvania High School causing us to replace a portion of the flooring in the main entrance. In a desire to upgrade the appearance of the entrance, we chose to re-tile the hallway. That of course, led us to your concerns.To share a little bit about the process we are undertaking to replace the tiles, Mr. Ricky Butts, Director of Maintenance, has been in regular communication with Mr. Stan Eller, a state licensed and authorized environmental engineer at Raincrow Environmental. Mr. Eller manages environmental issues including asbestos management for many state agencies and organizations. Mr. Eller has provided support and guidance as to how best proceed with replacing the flooring and carry it out in the safest and most productive manner. To add to this communication and support, Mr. Eller and his company will provide airborne testing immediately upon completion of this project to ensure that the environment is safe for all occupants.

Once again, I appreciate your concern, interest and support of Sylvania High School. I also want to affirm that we are certainly committed to the safety of the faculty and students at Sylvania.”

Dr. Barnett also said that he believes work should be done with replacing the floor by next week.

The Southern Torch will continue to update on this story as more details come in.