Management of Asbestos in Schools

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has updated information on managing asbestos in schools.The potential exposure of teachers and children to asbestos remains low but HSE has re-issued guidance to remind those responsible of their duties relating to the management of asbestos.

A government scientific advisory committee examined the potential exposure of teachers to asbestos fibres from pinning or tacking children's work to walls containing asbestos insulating board (AIB). This included a review of research carried out by the Health and Safety Laboratory.

Its conclusion was that the potential level of exposure created by this practice is low, but also concluded that inserting and removing drawing pins into AIB or other asbestos containing material is an avoidable practice.

Comments and Action Required

"Teachers and pupils are not likely to be at risk in the course of their normal activities. Education employers should nevertheless ensure that they are aware of any asbestos in their schools and that they are actively managing it." - Head of HSE's Public Services Sector.

"Pinning work to walls or ceilings containing asbestos may release asbestos fibres. Although the potential exposure is low, such activities are avoidable and must stop. Local authorities and governing bodies will need to notify staff not to damage walls and ceilings in this way if asbestos is present.

"We're not saying teachers can't use drawing pins - but they need to be sure that they do not pin work to asbestos containing materials.

"The committee findings are consistent with the duty to manage asbestos, which requires those responsible for premises to manage the risk from any asbestos present to prevent exposure to fibres." - Head of Asbestos Policy at HSE.

The HSE's guidance to schools has been added to existing guidance on Managing Asbestos in Premises - Annexe 2 to Section 20 of the Health and Safety Manual - Control of Contractors