Asbestos in Schools and the Workplace

So what is asbestos really all about? The following report includes some fascinating information about asbestos--info you can use, not just the old stuff they used to tell you.

Asbestos is a special kind of material that was used in building construction and other industries up to the 1980s. At that time, this material was found to be the cause of many health problems suffered by people working in asbestos mines and in the production of asbestos-containing products.

In spite of this, the Western Australian Advisory Committee on Hazardous Substances carried out research and reached to the conclusion that the hazardous effects of asbestos are due to human negligence. Evidence shows that if the asbestos is left untouched, it does not pose any risk to health. It is not necessary to remove asbestos materials to prevent health problems.

There are many schools and workplaces that have been built at the time when asbestos was very popular. Contrary to what has been said, there are some occasions when asbestos material needs to be disturbed. For example, if the material is not in good condition due to weather conditions, or if there are modifications in the buildings, asbestos should be removed. 

Now that we've covered those aspects of asbestos, let's turn to some of the other factors that need to be considered.

There are some procedures to follow when removal of asbestos material is pursued.

The asbestos removal must be directed by Contract Management Services and performed in agreement with the Occupational Safety and Health Regulations. Before asbestos removal works starts, meetings must be held between the project manager, school directives and stakeholders.

Removal tasks must not be performed while students and employees are at the school. Prior to the return of employees and students to school supervision of the work must be carried out.

I hope that reading the above information was both enjoyable and educational for you. Your learning process should be ongoing--the more you understand about any subject, the more you will be able to share with others.