We all understand the enormous importance of health and safety in schools. However, how much focus is put on managing risks related to asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) within school buildings? Asbestos, if disturbed or improperly managed, can pose serious health risks, making it vital that schools take proactive steps.
With many school buildings being built long before the asbestos ban in 1999, research shows that 81%contain asbestos. With that in mind, the Easter break presents a great opportunity for schools to review their asbestos management practices. Whether you're a head teacher, school administrator, or maintenance staff member, the below checklist can help ensure you're meeting your obligations and maintaining a safe environment.
Asbestos checklist for school buildings
This checklist is based on common issues related to asbestos management that have been flagged during HSE inspections. It helps schools assess their adherence to regulations and check if suitable precautions are in place.
While the checklist isn’t extensive, it serves as a starting point for identifying key areas of focus and can guide schools on the actions needed to mitigate the risks of asbestos exposure.
- Has your school carried out an asbestos survey? A thorough survey should identify where asbestos-containing materials are located within the building and assess their condition.
- Is there an asbestos management plan in place? A management plan should outline how asbestos risks will be monitored, maintained and controlled to prevent exposure. The plan should be easy to understand and be specific to each area of the school.
- Has the plan been reviewed in the last 12 months?
- Have staff been trained on asbestos awareness? Staff, especially those involved in maintenance and repairs, must be aware of the risks and know how to safely manage asbestos-containing materials.
- Are regular inspections of asbestos materials being conducted? Asbestos-containing materials can deteriorate over time. Regular inspections help identify potential hazards before they become serious risks.
Who is this checklist for?
This checklist is designed for the duty holder—the person responsible for the maintenance and repair of school buildings. It will assist in reviewing your school's asbestos management arrangements and ensure that sensible precautions are in place. While using this checklist isn't mandatory, it can provide valuable peace of mind and help demonstrate that the school has taken appropriate actions.
Why should you use it?
It’s a practical tool for schools to assess their current asbestos management processes. It focuses on key areas identified during Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspections, ensuring that duty holders meet their responsibilities under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
By using this checklist, schools can spot any gaps in their current approach and plan further actions if needed.
What to do next?
As the Easter break approaches, it is a perfect time to take a proactive approach and complete the checklist. By doing so, you will not only be ensuring that the necessary precautions are in place to protect the health and safety of everyone who spends time in the building but also demonstrating your commitment to following legal guidelines and providing a safe learning environment.
You can get further guidance on how to manage asbestos in your school or college through these resources:
- Asbestos duty to manage
- Working and managing asbestos
- A comprehensive guide to managing asbestos
- A survey guide for those responsible of over-seeing asbestos control
If you’re unsure about any of the procedures or need help with asbestos management, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help, to give you the peace of mind that your school is safe.
