The UK’s crumbling concrete crisis highlighted asbestos exposure risks in educational facilities like schools and colleges, which often have older buildings on site. Many educational facility managers may be planning asbestos removal over a time period while closely monitoring its condition.
Want to know more about asbestos removal in colleges and school grounds? Read our handy guide.
Is asbestos still present in educational buildings?
Asbestos was commonly used in building construction in Britain, peaking between 1945 and 1975 until its complete ban in the late nineties. Based on the age of the school or college estate, asbestos is usually still present in most educational facilities with structures built or renovated during that key time. It could be anywhere from outbuildings and sheds to roofing, boiler rooms and insulation. If the asbestos remains undisturbed and undamaged, it shouldn’t pose a significant risk, but it will require close monitoring.
How often do schools need asbestos surveys?
The biggest risk for schools and colleges when it comes to asbestos dangers is ineffective asbestos management. As outlined in the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, the school or college’s duty holder is responsible for asbestos management, as building maintenance and repairs usually come under their remit. Do you need a new school asbestos survey? This should be part of your asbestos management plan, asking a professional contractor to help you with inspections and testing. Surveys are needed regularly, whether annually, whenever work is planned or more often.
What is phased asbestos removal in schools?
There has been a lot of campaigning in recent years for better funding for the phased removal of asbestos from schools in Britain. While many schools may not have the resources to dedicate to good asbestos management, even those with well-planned strategies can have exposure risks. The controls required for doing any sort of work around asbestos-containing materials can be expensive and time-consuming. There is government funding available for work like asbestos encapsulation and removal from schools and colleges. Many institutions need asbestos surveys to help identify the costs of asbestos remediation work.
How does asbestos removal work?
The removal of asbestos from school and college buildings is complex, which is why you must get licensed asbestos professionals involved to ensure project safety. Phases include the planning and risk assessment of all asbestos-containing materials in the building to work out which removals are a priority. During the asbestos removal process, containment will be necessary, sealing off any area where fibres could be released. Specialist equipment, clothing and techniques will be used to remove asbestos from its location before being secured, sealed and transported to a licensed transfer station for treatment. Continuous air monitoring is completed, and the area will be thoroughly cleaned.
Plan your asbestos removal with Goodbye Asbestos
Goodbye Asbestos works with schools and colleges across the Home Counties, including asbestos removal in Isleworth, Islington and beyond. For a free quote, get in touch.
