DFE guidance on managing asbestos in schools

Please note the recently updated DfE guidance on managing asbestos in schools:

Gov.UK: Managing asbestos in your school or college

Whilst there are no new legal duties on schools as a result of this, please ensure that your Governing body and all staff managing asbestos on site are aware of its content and the expectations on schools.

National inspections by the HSE over the last 2 years have found that some schools did not fully understand the limitations of the surveys that had been undertaken. In one case the school had failed to recognise that the management survey did not extend to include the void above the ceilings yet they had undertaken work within the ceiling voids.

It must always be ensured that the scope of works are fully understood and that project specific surveys are commissioned prior to any intrusive works in those areas beyond the scope of the management survey, such as above the ceiling and under fitted flooring etc. 

HCC Guidance and resources for managing asbestos is available on the Grid.

Training for asbestos authorised officers can be booked via HFL Education Hub In the event of any queries contact the health and safety team: healthandsafety@hertfordshire.gov.uk