Asbestos Discovery Causes Disruption For School in the UK Serves as a Warning that Asbestos is still present in Many Buildings in Ireland

9 Jan 2023

Asbestos Discovery Causes Disruption For School in the UK Serves as a Warning that Asbestos is still present in Many Buildings in Ireland

We often bring you blogs like this one that highlights the dangers of asbestos and the need to take the appropriate measures when it's discovered. Today, we bring you a new story about an Essex school that's had to go to great lengths to protect its pupils. 

While tearing down an old building to make way for a new £2m two-storey block at King Edmund School in Rochford, Essex, contractors discovered deadly asbestos. This led to year 11 and 13 pupils being bussed to Gaynes School in Upminster for in-person lessons. 

Taking No Chances 
The 1,570 students that learn at King Edmund school were hit by the closure that happened suddenly on the 15th of November. Head teacher, Jonathan Osborn, said that longer-term, the use of a separate part of nearby Cecil Jones Academy has been offered.

No chances should ever be taken when asbestos is discovered, as it presents a very real risk to life, even in minute quantities. The only issue for many students at the school is that they're preparing for their exams - something that Mr Osborn was keen to address. 

"What we are hoping to do is to make sure the exam boards and Ofqual are fully aware of the uniqueness of this situation and the challenges that students have had, and it is then very much up to them to work out what the right solution is".

Pupils hope to be able to return to their school on January 23rd. 


Never Take Chances When Asbestos is Present 
Stories like this one serve to show just how widespread asbestos is in buildings, not just in the UK , but also in Ireland and the wider world, while in general the perception is that its not around as it was banned quite some time ago. It also highlights the need for us here in Ireland to follow the strict asbestos regulations that exist - something the school did by evacuating and seeking professional assistance.

At OHSS, our asbestos consultancy services help keep you and your employees safe with the training we offer, also raising awareness of how to identify hazards and what to do when you find them. To find out more, visit us today at www.ohss.ie

Alternatively, to speak to us about what we've discussed here or to talk about your occupational health needs, call us on 01 6905907.

 


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