Asbestos remains an important consideration for schools across the UK, particularly in buildings constructed or refurbished before asbestos was banned in 1999.
When asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are in good condition and left undisturbed, they may present a low risk. However, if they are damaged, deteriorate or are disturbed during maintenance or refurbishment work, asbestos fibres can be released into the air.
For those responsible for managing school premises, understanding where asbestos may be present and how it should be managed is essential.
Who is the dutyholder in a school?
Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, the duty to manage asbestos in non-domestic premises applies to the person or organisation responsible for the maintenance or repair of the building.
Within education, who holds this responsibility can vary depending on how the school is managed. It could include the local authority, academy trust or another organisation responsible for the premises.
Dutyholders must take reasonable steps to determine whether asbestos is present, assess its condition and manage the potential risk.
Where can asbestos be found in schools?
Asbestos was historically used in many different building materials. Within older school buildings, ACMs may potentially be found in areas including insulation, ceiling tiles, pipework, textured coatings, roofing products, floor tiles and asbestos insulating board.
This makes having accurate, up-to-date information particularly important before maintenance, installation or refurbishment work begins.
Managing asbestos safely
An asbestos management plan should clearly record known or presumed ACMs, their location and condition, and how the associated risks will be managed.
This information also needs to be available to contractors and anyone else who may carry out work that could disturb these materials.
Regular monitoring is important too. The condition of ACMs can change over time, particularly in busy environments where areas of a building may be frequently accessed, maintained or altered.
Taking a proactive approach
Effective asbestos management isn’t simply about reacting when a problem is discovered. Schools and those responsible for their estates should understand their buildings, maintain accurate asbestos information and ensure appropriate procedures are followed before work takes place.
Shield Services Group provides specialist asbestos services to organisations across the UK, helping dutyholders identify, manage and safely address asbestos risks within their premises.
Need support managing asbestos within your premises? Contact Shield Services Group to discuss your requirements.
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