School could find issues with asbestos when fixing issues related to Reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC).
That’s according to John Wallace, managing director of construction and real estate law firm Ridgemont.
He said: “The prevalence of asbestos in schools presents a significant complicating factor in remediating issues relating to RAAC.
“The construction sector is used to dealing with the presence of asbestos in buildings, particularly those that were built around the same time as the proliferation of RAAC.
“Legislation and industry practice ensures that processes are in place that enable asbestos to be removed, where necessary, in a calm, meticulous way.”
He went on to say that the liability for unsafe buildings falls at the feet of developers, building owners and other participants in the construction sector.
Wallace added: “Those responsible will need to ensure that they meet the requirements of the substantive legislation in this area, identify any RAAC and taking particular care in removing the same where asbestos is identified in its vicinity.
“Where RAAC panels may contain asbestos, considerable care will need to be taken in any invasive testing of the RAAC. Asbestos, once disturbed, is a serious hazard.
“The need to remove RAAC, and any asbestos, across schools and other buildings provides an opportunity for schools to be made safer places and improved.
“However, those responsible for such buildings and those engaged to undertake the work carry a heavy burden.
“Serious consequences follow for those that do not meet their obligations under the relevant legislation.”
The government has ordered a number school closures after evidence emerged that buildings using RAAC are prone to collapse.