Following the recent press coverage regarding asbestos within schools, please find below a statement from KCC.  It is normal to find asbestos in old buildings, but we can assure you that it is safely sealed and no risk to children, and that regular inspections are carried out.

 

“The health and safety of all children in our schools is our top priority and we are confident there is no risk to children arising as a result of the issues raised in this article. The majority of schools in the UK have some degree of asbestos in their buildings and the presence of asbestos in itself does not present a risk to health providing it is not disturbed and is maintained in a safe condition. In most instances where asbestos exists in schools it has been used to insulate parts of buildings that are out of sight and not accessible for example boiler rooms, pipes, chimneys and roofs. Through KCC’s Asbestos Management System (which includes regular surveys of all premises) it is known where asbestos risk is present and its location in all KCC buildings including schools.  The process of managing asbestos in schools is governed through strict controls, checks and training set by KCC in accordance with current HSE legislation and regulations in order to protect all site users including staff, pupils, contractors and visitors. In the event that asbestos is required to be removed (for example during building and refurbishment works) KCC always uses fully qualified and HSE licenced asbestos surveyors and removal specialists and such works are carried out under controlled conditions as per HSE guidelines without risk to building users”.