[dateline] -- A Central Ohio middle school was closed all week after the building's new heating system blew a black soot around the building.
Crews continued to clean the building of Circleville's Evert Middle School on Friday. Air quality tests showed the material was not toxic, but NBC 4 learned the soot was asbestos.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, asbestos is comprised of microscopic bundles of fibers that, when disturbed or damaged, can get into the air and into your lungs. Once inside the body, the fibers can cause significant health problems.
Undisturbed asbestos -- used in insulation -- generally is not a risk.
Circleville schools said their challenge is finding the time to make up the missed school days.
"There are a few waiver days that we might be able to make … up, so students get more time before testing this spring," said Circleville Superintendent Sam Lucas.
The middle school has now used eight calamity days -- which is more than the district is allowed. Officials have not yet determined when the three extra days will be added.
Stay with NBC 4 and refresh nbc4i.com for additional information.
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