Were Schools Required To Remove Asbestos In Devon?

Asbestos is a mineral that was once commonly used for building construction materials due to its fire-resistant properties. However, it has been found to cause serious health issues, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. The UK government banned the use of asbestos in construction in 1999, but many buildings, including schools, still contain it. In this article, we will explore whether schools in Devon were required to remove asbestos and what steps they have taken to ensure the safety of their students and staff.

Who Are We?

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a leading asbestos removal company in Devon. Our experienced team has been helping clients in the South West of England for many years. We understand the risks associated with asbestos and take all necessary precautions to ensure its safe removal. If you have any concerns about asbestos in your property, don't hesitate to contact us.

The History of Asbestos Use in Schools

Asbestos was used extensively in the construction of schools in the UK from the 1950s until the 1980s. It was mainly used to provide insulation, fire protection, and soundproofing. When asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are damaged or disturbed, they release microscopic fibres that can be inhaled. This can lead to serious health issues, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

In 1985, the UK government introduced legislation to regulate the use of asbestos in schools. This made it illegal to use most types of asbestos and required schools to monitor and manage any existing asbestos-containing materials. Schools were required to carry out a risk assessment and take appropriate action to reduce the risk of exposure to asbestos.

Are Schools Required to Remove Asbestos?

The presence of asbestos in schools does not necessarily mean that it needs to be removed. Asbestos that is in good condition and not likely to be disturbed can be managed safely in place. However, if ACMs are damaged or deteriorating, they should be removed or repaired immediately to prevent fibres from being released into the air.

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, schools have a legal duty to manage asbestos safely. This includes maintaining a record of the location and condition of ACMs, carrying out regular inspections, and training staff on how to deal with asbestos.

Asbestos Management in Devon Schools

Devon County Council is responsible for the management of asbestos in all of its schools. The council has a comprehensive asbestos management plan in place, which includes regular inspections of buildings and ACMs. If any ACMs are found to be damaged or deteriorating, the council will arrange for them to be removed or repaired.

All schools in Devon are required to have an asbestos management plan, which outlines the location and condition of ACMs and sets out procedures for managing them. School staff are trained on how to identify, manage, and dispose of asbestos safely.

The Role of the Health and Safety Executive

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is responsible for enforcing asbestos regulations in the UK. The HSE carries out regular inspections of schools and other buildings to ensure that asbestos is being managed safely. If a school is found to be in breach of the regulations, the HSE may issue an improvement notice or prosecute the school.

In recent years, the HSE has stepped up its enforcement activities in relation to asbestos in schools. In 2018, the HSE issued a safety alert, which highlighted the risks associated with asbestos in schools and called for more stringent management of ACMs.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Asbestos in your School?

If you suspect that there is asbestos in your school, you should report it to the school management immediately. The school should have an asbestos management plan in place, which outlines the procedures for dealing with asbestos.

Never attempt to remove or disturb asbestos-containing materials yourself, as this can release fibres into the air. Always seek professional help from an accredited asbestos removal company, such as Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon.

Contact Us

If you have any concerns about asbestos in your school or any other property, don't hesitate to contact us. Our experienced team can help you to identify and manage asbestos safely.

Contact us today on 01962 458066, send us an email at [email protected] or visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-devon.co.uk.

Conclusion

The presence of asbestos in schools is a serious concern, and schools have a legal duty to manage it safely. Devon County Council has a comprehensive asbestos management plan in place, and all schools in Devon are required to have an asbestos management plan. The HSE carries out regular inspections to ensure that asbestos is being managed safely. If you suspect that there is asbestos in your school, you should report it to the school management immediately and seek professional help from an accredited asbestos removal company.