Peter Ward discusses the unseen dangers of hidden asbestos fibres
In an effort to reduce the current economic deficit, the new coalition government has recently scrapped the outgoing Labour government’s Building Schools for the Future scheme. While financial savings may be made, a worrying consequence that hasn’t been discussed is the hidden cost to the health of those working in and attending our schools.
Asbestos is rife in old school buildings and over recent years there have been an increasing number of claims for damages by those who allege exposure to asbestos fibres in schools.
Inherent danger
Most of the existing schools in England were built after the Second World War. Any schools built up until the early 1980s could have used asbestos or so-called “Asbestos Containing Materials” (ACMs) in their construction. Similarly any repairs carried out during that time could have made use of asbestos. ACMs were used widely in many schools – most commonly for heat insulation, fireproofing, ceiling tiles and wall panels. As long as ACMs are undamaged, undisturbed and maintained they pose minimal risk to health. However, as more schools age, the
