A Comprehensive Evaluation of PIP Inventory Is Completing

(WASHINGTON, DC) – The Department of General Services (DGS) recognizes recent public concerns with elevated levels of lead in Poured-in-Place (PIP) play surfaces at District public schools and has engaged an independent Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) to carry out an assessment of the material at these sites. In partnership with DC Public Schools, the Department of Energy and the Environment, and District health officials, DGS is evaluating the results of this assessment and any remediation recommendations as they are provided.

While this work is on-going, these remedial activities have been completed or are underway:

Aiton Elementary School

The Aiton Elementary School PIP surface was previously slated for a full replacement. The new installation was completed on August 25 and the playground has been returned to full operation.

Cardozo Education Campus

This weekend remediation activities will be conducted on the PIP surface. Upon completion of this repair, the playground will be returned to full operation.

Janney Elementary School

Initial results from Janney Elementary School in May 2019 demonstrated no elevated lead levels in the surface materials. However, additional testing found elevated lead levels on the surfaces of both playgrounds caused by peeling paint on an exterior window overlooking the playgrounds. The playgrounds will be closed from August 30 to September 3 for lead paint remediation.

Thomson Elementary School

The Thomson Elementary School fourth floor outdoor surface remains closed to undergo further evaluation with a timeline being developed for repair.

Turner Elementary School

This weekend, remediation activities will be conducted on the two northernmost PIP surfaces. Upon completion of this repair, the playground will be returned to full operation.

DGS will continue to keep the public informed about the findings of this evaluation.

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