HOW TO CHECK YOUR SCHOOLS ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT

Summary

Most schools have excellent systems for making sure that no one is exposed to asbestos. However a few are not as conscientious, and their lack of planning and implementing a workable asbestos management plan means that asbestos can be damaged and the dangerous fibres can be released. As parents, teachers and ancillary staff you have a vested interest in making sure that your school has a good asbestos management plan and that the school authorities take the necessary measures to ensure that it works. The guidance in this paper is not meant to be the “Complete Guide to Managing Asbestos” however if these measure are implemented then the school will have a workable plan. Look at your school’s plan, ask questions and decide for yourselves whether the school are doing their best to assure your safety and that of your children.

Further Reading

If you want to know more then read the HSE publication “A Comprehensive Guide to Managing Asbestos In Premises.” This is a well written book with some very good practical guidance, however when you are reading it, do bear in mind the reservations that have been raised in this paper over the present laws and guidance when applied to schools. This book can be bought from HSE Publications details of which are on the HSE web site. Other guidance is given in HSE publication "Asbestos Essentials". It can be downloaded from the web htttp://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/essentials/ . This gives practcal guidance on simple tasks that the school's maintenace staff and caretakers might be expected to carry out. It is worth reading as it precisely lays out the precautions that should be taken when asbestos materials are involved, for instnce when changing a light bulb or painting a ceiling.

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Checking asbestos management

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Campaign for change and contacts

This campaign is organised by Richard Lees. It is based on research by Michael Lees. Although Michael Lees totally agrees with the objecctives and with the campaign, the campaign is not run by him. Statements made by the campaign, whether on this web site or elsewhere, should not be quoted as being from Michael Lees, or, necessarily approved by him.

Michael Lees authoritative research can be seen at www.asbestosexposureschools.co.uk and that is approved by him, closely referenced and can be quoted,