Asbestos Management: Understanding the Difference Between a Management Survey and a Management Plan
Introduction
Asbestos is a mineral that was commonly used in construction until it was discovered that exposure to it can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. As a result, the use of asbestos has been banned in the UK since 1999. However, many buildings, including schools, built before this time may still contain asbestos. Asbestos in schools poses a significant risk to the health of pupils and staff, and therefore it is important that schools have an effective asbestos management plan in place.
Asbestos Management Survey
The first step in developing an asbestos management plan is to carry out an asbestos management survey. This involves a qualified asbestos surveyor inspecting the school building to identify any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that are present. The survey will also assess the condition of the ACMs and identify any risks they pose.
The asbestos survey will provide a report that outlines the location, type and condition of any asbestos within the school building. It will also provide a risk assessment of the asbestos, which will be used to determine the level of risk posed by each ACM. The survey will also outline the measures that need to be taken to manage the risks associated with the asbestos.
Asbestos Management Plan
Once the asbestos survey has been completed, the next step is to develop an asbestos management plan. This is a document that outlines how the risks associated with the asbestos will be managed. The plan will include information on who is responsible for managing the asbestos, how the risks will be monitored, and how any necessary remedial work will be carried out.
The asbestos management plan will also include details on how the school will communicate the risks associated with the asbestos to staff, pupils and parents. It is important that all stakeholders are aware of the risks and understand how the school is managing them.
The asbestos management plan should be regularly reviewed and updated as necessary. This will ensure that the plan remains effective and that any changes to the school building or the risks associated with the asbestos are taken into account.
Below is the HSE Template for an Asbestos Management Plan, feel free to download it and click here for a step by step guide to completing it.
Conclusion
Asbestos management in Schools is an important issue and it is essential that schools have an effective asbestos management plan in place to protect the health and safety of pupils and staff. The first step in developing an asbestos management plan is to carry out an asbestos management survey. This will provide information on the location, type and condition of any asbestos within the school building, as well as a risk assessment of the asbestos. The asbestos management plan will then outline how the risks associated with the asbestos will be managed, including who is responsible for managing the asbestos, how the risks will be monitored, and how any necessary remedial work will be carried out. Regular reviews and updates to the asbestos management plan will ensure that the plan remains effective and that any changes to the risks associated with the asbestos are taken into account.
Want to know more? Click Here for access to the HSE’s guidance on asbestos management.
