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
