Asbestos in system buildings

Schools system buildings checklist

A step in the right direction

Certain school buildings are called "system buildings" and have their structural columns fire-proofed with asbestos materials, which in turn are enclosed by metal casings or cladding. In 2006, HSE identified that asbestos fibres could escape from these metal casings if:

  • there was damaged asbestos beneath the casing; and
  • the column casing was vibrated in some way, e.g. by an adjacent door being slammed; and
  • there were gaps or other openings in the casings.

When these gaps and openings are sealed - asbestos fibres cannot escape into classrooms.

If you have responsibility for the maintenance and/or repair of non-domestic premises such as schools, then you have duties as a dutyholder under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006.

Learn more > Asbestos system building checklist

Source and reference - Health and safety executive

Return to News Bulletin List