Which regulatory body is primarily responsible for asbestos management in schools?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is primarily responsible for asbestos management in schools due to its regulatory authority under the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA). This act mandates that schools must be inspected for asbestos, develop management plans to address asbestos-containing materials, and ensure that appropriate actions are taken to protect the health of students and staff. The EPA's guidelines provide a framework for schools to manage any risks associated with asbestos effectively, which includes training staff, conducting inspections, and carrying out necessary remediation activities.

In contrast, while OSHA is focused on worker safety and health regulations, its jurisdiction mainly applies to workplaces rather than schools specifically. NIOSH is involved in research and recommendations related to occupational safety, and the Department of Health and Human Services has a broader focus on health policies. Therefore, the EPA’s specialized role in environmental hazards, particularly regarding asbestos in educational facilities, makes it the correct answer for this question.