Protecting Our Pupils and Staff: The Critical Role of Asbestos Surveys in Schools
Many of our schools, while centres of learning and community, were built at a time when asbestos was a common construction material. Hidden within walls, ceilings, and floors, this legacy material poses a significant risk if disturbed. For any school planning refurbishment or maintenance, an asbestos survey isn’t just a preliminary step; it’s a fundamental duty of care.
The Challenge: Refurbishment in Older School Buildings
Undertaking upgradesโwhether installing new energy-efficient windows, modernising fire alarm systems, or reconfiguring classroomsโis essential for providing a 21st-century education. However, these well-intentioned projects can unintentionally release dangerous asbestos fibres if the risks aren’t professionally managed from the outset. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 places a clear legal duty on schools to manage this risk, protecting pupils, staff, and contractors from exposure.
Case Study: A Proactive Approach at a Sutton School
We recently had the privilege of assisting a school in Sutton, Surrey, that was planning a significant refurbishment project. The scope included the replacement of windows and doors and the installation of a new, comprehensive fire alarm system.
Before a single tool was lifted for the main project, our team was brought in to conduct a full Asbestos Refurbishment Survey. Our intrusive investigation identified several asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that would have been disturbed by the planned works. By identifying these materials early, we provided the school with a clear, actionable plan for their safe removal and management.
This proactive approach ensured:
- Safety: The risk of asbestos fibre release was eliminated before the main contractors arrived on site.
- Compliance: The school met all its legal health and safety obligations.
- Efficiency: The project avoided unexpected and costly delays that would have occurred if asbestos had been discovered midway through the refurbishment.
Why Choose Us for Your School’s Asbestos Survey?
Working within an educational environment requires a specific skill set and a deep understanding of the sector’s unique challenges.
- Experience in Sensitive Environments: We have extensive experience working in live school environments. We understand the importance of safeguarding, working around term times to minimise disruption, and maintaining clear communication with facilities managers and headteachers.
- Thorough and Compliant: Our surveys are conducted in strict accordance with HSE guidelines, providing you with a robust, legally compliant asbestos register and management plan.
- Clear, Actionable Advice: We don’t just identify problems; we provide solutions. Our reports are written in plain English, outlining clear, prioritised recommendations to help you manage any identified asbestos safely and cost-effectively.
The safety of your pupils and staff is non-negotiable. If you are a school governor, business manager, or part of a multi-academy trust planning any building work, contact us today to ensure your project is safe, compliant, and successful from the start.