Asbestos in Schools: A Guide for Parents and Staff

Asbestos in schools is a concerning issue that requires attention from parents, teachers, and administrators. While the use of asbestos in construction has been banned in the UK since 1999, many older school buildings still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Understanding the risks and management strategies is crucial for ensuring a safe learning environment for children and a safe working environment for staff. This article provides essential information about asbestos in schools, empowering you to advocate for the health and well-being of your school community.

The History of Asbestos Use in Schools

Asbestos was widely used in school construction from the 1940s through the 1980s due to its fire-resistant, insulating, and durable properties. It can be found in various materials, including:

• Ceiling tiles
• Vinyl floor tiles and linoleum
• Pipe insulation
• Boiler insulation
• Cement sheets
• Textured paint and “popcorn” ceilings

Because of its widespread use in the past, the EPA estimates that asbestos-containing materials are in most of the nation’s primary, secondary, and charter schools.

Understanding the Risks of Asbestos Exposure

When ACMs are intact and undisturbed, they generally don’t pose a significant health risk. However, when these materials are damaged, deteriorate, or are disturbed during maintenance or renovation work, asbestos fibers can be released into the air. Inhaling these fibers can lead to serious health problems, including:

• Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease caused by scarring from inhaled asbestos fibers
• Lung cancer
• Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer that primarily affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart

Children are considered more vulnerable to asbestos exposure than adults. Research suggests that children are more susceptible to developing mesothelioma later in life compared to adults exposed to the same levels of asbestos.

The Current Approach: Managing Asbestos In-Situ

The current UK policy for managing asbestos in schools is “in-situ management”. This approach assumes that asbestos poses little risk if it is in good condition and remains undisturbed. However, concerns exist about the effectiveness of this approach, especially in schools where ACMs may be subject to damage from daily activity or accidental releases.

One-third of schools were found to be in material breach of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 following a 2023 HSE inspection program. 7% of schools inspected had serious enough issues to warrant an enforcement notice.

Legal Duties and Responsibilities

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 places specific duties on those responsible for managing asbestos in schools. These “duty holders” typically include school leaders, governors, local authorities, and academy trusts.

Key responsibilities include:

• Surveying the building to identify ACMs
• Creating and maintaining a register of ACMs
• Developing and implementing an asbestos management plan
• Providing information, instruction, and training to staff who may disturb asbestos
• Ensuring contractors are aware of the location of asbestos before starting work

What to Do If You Suspect Asbestos

If you suspect the presence of asbestos in your school, here’s what you should do:

• Do not disturb the material: Avoid touching, drilling, or otherwise disturbing any suspected ACMs.
• Report your concerns: Immediately notify the school administration, headteacher, or designated asbestos contact person.
• Request information: Ask for the school’s asbestos management plan and register of ACMs. Schools are legally required to provide this information.
• Seek professional advice: If you have serious concerns or believe the school is not adequately managing asbestos risks, contact a certified asbestos surveyor or the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Empowering Parents and Staff

Parents and teachers play a crucial role in ensuring safer schools. Here are some steps you can take:

• Stay informed: Familiarise yourself with the risks of asbestos exposure and the school’s asbestos management plan.
• Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask school administrators about asbestos testing results, management strategies, and ongoing abatement projects.
• Monitor the situation: Pay attention to the condition of building materials in your school. Report any signs of damage or deterioration to the appropriate authorities.
• Collaborate and advocate: Work with other parents and teachers to advocate for improved asbestos management practices and phased removal of asbestos in schools.

Investing in a Safe Future

Managing asbestos in schools requires a proactive and vigilant approach. While the current policy of in-situ management relies on ACMs remaining undisturbed, it’s crucial to recognise that accidents can happen, and materials can deteriorate over time.

A phased removal of asbestos, prioritising schools where the asbestos is considered the most dangerous, is the most effective way to ensure the safety of students and staff. The APPG recommended that the Government should set a programme for the phased removal of asbestos from all schools, with priority being given to those schools where the asbestos is considered to be in the most dangerous or damaged condition.

If you’re based in Chessington, our local licensed surveyors and removal team can help — see our Chessington asbestos removal service for details.

If you’re based in Whyteleafe, our local licensed surveyors and removal team can help — see our Whyteleafe asbestos removal service for details.

By staying informed, asking questions, and advocating for proactive measures, parents and staff can help create a safer and healthier learning environment for all.