Maine schools can’t afford sprinkler systems due to asbestos
Two elementary schools in Portsmouth, Maine have no sprinkler systems, but they have been grandfathered in from modern building codes that would otherwise require the fire suppression systems. Little Harbour and Dondero schools were built in the 1960s when sprinkler systems were not required. They both passed their annual safety inspections, though, as they have exterior exits from just about every room. The deputy fire chief wishes the schools had sprinklers, but admitted that it would be up to the city to make that determination.
A group of parents at Little Harbour discovered that there were no sprinklers when they were advocating for the school budget this past spring. They were concerned because the school is nearing or over capacity in its classrooms.
Sprinkler systems have been considered in the past, but they are an expensive proposition. In order to install sprinklers in Little Harbour, the school would have to replace its asbestos ceiling tiles, provide a separate water source and a pump house. Asbestos is a known carcinogen that was widely used in construction projects until 1980. The asbestos ceiling tiles are not harmful unless they are disrupted, but adding sprinklers would be disruptive. Removal of the ceiling tiles will require a certified asbestos removal contractor to do the work, which will only add to the cost of the project.
Portsmouth has earmarked $10 million for a capital improvement plan to upgrade the elementary schools, although the project would not begin until at least 2015, possibly later.
For the full story, go to SeacoastOnline.com.
