Asbestos -we all know, and are all aware, of the hazards of the silicate that has been removed from countless places over the last few decades since its dangers were discovered. And there can’t be much worse than asbestos worries in schools really, can there…
According to sources form the BBC (source), a snapshot survey of 16 schools has indicated that some British schools continue to fail in meeting the legal requirements to protect children from the dangers of asbestos. The report of 16 schools showed that none of them complied with safety standards in place for managing the harmful substance – which is a concerning fact!
Teaching Unions have since called for a full audit to be carried out on the dangers of the potentially cancer-causing silicate, since government policy in place is for the management of the substance, not its removal. Reportedly however, many schools lack the resources to effectively manage asbestos, leaving them open to serious potential dangers, according to Atac (Asbestos Training and Consultancy Association). Association of Teachers and Lecturers general secretary Dr Mary Bousted has called for an independent body to be set up, to monitor and advise on the management and removal of the substance.
According to the report, Atac has advised that in more than half of schools visited, asbestos was damaged – and it is when asbestos is damaged or disturbed that the potentially serious hazards occur from the particles that can be released. Although the report is small, it is the start of a much larger study which if we take the results so far in to account, could lead to disturbing conclusions.
Sources form the BBC state that it is thought around 75% of British schools contain asbestos, and 178 teachers have so far known to have died from asbestos related diseases.
Atac chairman John O’Sullivan has said that “Numerous incidents have taken place where asbestos fibres have been released, the schools contaminated and teachers, support staff and pupils have been exposed. The increasing numbers of mesothelioma deaths amongst teachers and support staff is testament that the policy of management has failed.”
Schools Minister Iain Wright stated “The health and welfare of pupils and staff is absolutely paramount. By law, tough, robust processes must be in place in schools to carefully monitor asbestos. All local authorities and school employers must fully comply – no ifs or buts.” He added “The HSE will not hesitate to take action in areas which are not coming up to scratch.”
The local authorities and schools must comply with stringent legislation to prevent the dangers of asbestos affecting anyone at all. In failing to meet the requirement in place, they are labile for any person’s suffering as a result of exposure to asbestos.
For advice and help on asbestos related diseases, we strongly suggest that you speak to an expert independent personal injury solicitor and get the right advice and the proper representation for pursuing a claim.
