The Environmental Protection Agency is readying plans to inspect K-12 schools in New York to determine which ones do not comply with regulations for safe storage and handling of chemicals and other toxic materials.

All schools should be on alert, since there is no advance schedule.

"Our compliance inspections are conducted unannounced," said Leonard Voo of EPA's Region 2. "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 an enforcement action with penalties."

"EPA knows there are significant problems in hundreds of K-12 schools," said Wendy Hord, health and safety specialist for New York State United Teachers.

The plan to inspect K-12 schools follows the EPA's ongoing investigation of colleges in the state. To date, more than 50 colleges and universities have been inspected, resulting in the EPA levying fines and mandating corrective action (see accompanying article).

EPA is asking education organizations to partner with them in developing K-12 Compliance and Best Management Practices manuals. It is planning free seminars to be held next year. NYSUT staffers will work with science committee members to evaluate EPA manuals, said Hord.

Dangers include chemicals stored in back rooms and closets and then forgotten. Picric acid (used for organic reactions and analytical chemistry of metals), sodium and ether can explode if allowed to deteriorate or subjected to friction. Old batteries can cause fires. Improperly stored chemicals, such as ammonia and bleach together, can cause a gas cloud. Mercury, found in gas regulators, thermostats, batteries and barometers, can cause havoc with improper disposal and cleanup.

Voo said the EPA will be looking at K-12 schools for violations including improper use, storage or disposal of:

• Chemicals, computer and electronic equipment;

• Fluorescent lamps and other mercury-containing equipment;

• Picric acid, ethers and sodium metals.

— Liza Frenette