Asbestos is a naturally produced mineral known for its heat-resistant properties. It was once widely used in construction and other industries. However, its adverse health effects have led to stringent regulations and efforts to manage its presence, particularly in schools. Comprehending the risks of asbestos, its locations and proper management is crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of students and staff. This blog delves into the intricacies of asbestos in schools, focusing on its types, dangers, locations, legal regulations and management strategies.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos refers to six naturally occurring silicate minerals composed of long, thin, fibrous crystals. These fibres are resistant to heat, electricity and chemical damage, making asbestos ideal for various industrial applications, especially insulation and fireproofing. Asbestos has been used in numerous products, including building materials, automotive parts and household items.

The primary types of asbestos include:

  • Chrysotile (White Asbestos): The most widely used form found in the roofs, ceilings, walls and floors of buildings.
  • Amosite (Brown Asbestos): Typically found in cement sheets and pipe insulation.
  • Crocidolite (Blue Asbestos): Known for its high heat resistance, used in steam engine insulation.
  • Tremolite, Actinolite and Anthophyllite: Less common but can be found in certain products and contamination scenarios.

Why Is Asbestos So Dangerous?

Inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibres poses serious health risks. These tiny fibres can become embedded in the lungs and other bodily tissues after inhaling, potentially leading to serious health complications.

Health risks include:

  • Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease causing scarring of lung tissue, leading to long-term breathing complications.
  • Lung Cancer: Asbestos exposure substantially increases the chances of developing lung cancer, particularly for individuals who smoke.
  • Mesothelioma: A rare and highly assertive type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, chest, abdomen and heart.
  • Other Cancers: Some studies suggest a link between asbestos exposure and other cancers, such as those of the larynx and ovaries.

Where is Asbestos Found in Schools?

Asbestos was extensively used in buildings constructed before the 1980s, including school buildings. It can be found in various areas and materials, including:

  • Insulation: Pipes, boilers and ducts often use asbestos for insulation.
  • Flooring: Vinyl floor tiles and their adhesives.
  • Ceiling Tiles: Acoustic tiles used for soundproofing.
  • Roofing Materials: Shingles and felt.
  • Cement Products: Walls and panels.
  • Textiles: Fire blankets and curtains.
  • Laboratory Equipment: Bunsen burner pads and fume hood linings.

Asbestos and the Law

Asbestos regulations are stringent in the UK due to the severe health risks associated with exposure. 

Asbestos Regulations of 2012

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 is the primary legislation governing asbestos management. It mandates strict guidelines for identifying, handling and disposing of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Employers and duty holders must conduct thorough asbestos surveys, maintain up-to-date registers and implement robust asbestos management plans to prevent exposure. 

Under these regulations, schools must develop and execute asbestos management plans to monitor the condition of ACMs and ensure they are safely maintained or removed.

Health and Safety at Work Act of 1974

The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (HSWA) imposes a general responsibility on employers to safeguard the health, safety and well-being of employees and others affected by their operations. Employers should conduct risk assessments to identify potential hazards, including asbestos, provide sufficient training and information to employees about asbestos-related risks and control measures and implement strategies to prevent or minimise asbestos exposure.

Managing Asbestos in Schools

Effective asbestos management in schools involves a comprehensive approach that includes identification, monitoring, maintenance and removal when necessary. Adherence to asbestos regulations is crucial for ensuring a safe learning environment.

Identification and Risk Assessment

The initial step in managing asbestos is to identify its presence through an asbestos survey carried out by qualified professionals. These surveys involve visual inspections of the building for ACMs, sampling and testing suspected materials in a laboratory and performing risk assessments to evaluate the condition of ACMs and the likelihood of fibre release.

Development of an Asbestos Management Plan

An asbestos management plan outlines procedures for managing identified ACMs. This plan involves regular monitoring to inspect ACMs for signs of damage or deterioration, maintenance protocols to ensure that any work involving ACMs is performed by trained personnel using appropriate safety measures and communication to inform staff, students and visitors about the presence of asbestos and the precautions in place, as mandated by asbestos regulations.

Training and Awareness

Asbestos awareness training is essential for all staff members, particularly those involved in maintenance and construction activities. Training programmes cover the health risks associated with asbestos exposure, practices for staying safe around ACMs and actions to take in the event of accidental asbestos disturbance.

Safe Removal and Disposal

In some cases, it may be necessary to remove ACMs to eliminate the risk of exposure. This process, governed by asbestos regulations, should be conducted by licensed asbestos removal contractors following strict safety protocols. The removal process includes preparation, such as sealing the work area and setting up decontamination units, carefully removing ACMs while minimising fibre release and properly transporting asbestos waste to a licensed disposal facility.

Conclusion

Asbestos in schools poses a significant health risk if not managed properly. Understanding what asbestos is, its dangers, likely locations and the legal regulations governing its management are essential for maintaining a safe environment. By adhering to asbestos regulations, conducting regular risk assessments and providing asbestos awareness training to maintenance staff and facility managers, schools can effectively minimise the risk of asbestos exposure and protect the health of students and all the staff. The dedication to implementing robust asbestos management practices ensures that schools remain safe environments for learning and growth, free from the risks associated with asbestos exposure.