Vast Majority’ Of British Universities Still Have Buildings Containing Asbestos

1. ‘Vast Majority’ Of British Universities Still Have Buildings Containing Asbestos The Asbestos Removal Contractors that we work with here at Trident Asbestos Solutions are continually reminded of what persistent danger asbestos can pose to health – even many years after it was banned in the UK in 1999 – due to its lingering presence in buildings across the country. Sure enough, a freedom of information (FOI) request sent to 106 universities around the UK has received 91 replies, with the vast majority (86%) of institutions that did respond confirming the potentially lethal fibres were still present in the fabric of their buildings. Some of the country’s most prestigious establishments affected Institutions in such parts of England as Oxford, Nottingham and Coventry were among those to reveal that asbestos remained in parts of their premises. However, they also urged students, staff and the public not to be concerned, with the University of Warwick saying that the once widely-used construction material was “sealed and safe” where it existed across its estate.

2. Meanwhile, a University of Oxford spokesperson said that the institution complied with “national best practices and the requirements of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 to manage asbestos materials.” They added: “We regularly monitor and survey for asbestos in buildings and, if any risk is detected, we take immediate action to ensure users are safe.” Mesothelioma charity boss expresses concern The results of the FOI request are perhaps unsurprising, given the large proportion of university buildings in the UK that date from between the 1940s and 1970s, when the use of asbestos across the country was at its height. While the material is generally considered safe unless it is disturbed, any release of such fibres – as could occur if, for example, a roof sustains damage or ceiling tiles are broken – could pose a grievous risk to health. For more information visit our website: www.tridentsurveying.co.uk