Asbestos Exposure

The presence of asbestos in schools is a major cause for concern. Recent estimates suggest that five teachers a year in the UK die from asbestos related illnesses. The NUT is urging members to keep a record of any possible exposure to asbestos that they may experience during their career. In the unfortunate event of a member developing
mesothelioma (the form of lung cancer caused by asbestos), the more historical information available, the greater the chance of holding a particular employer accountable and the better the chance of being able to claim compensation.

Further information about asbestos and a copy of a form to record exposure to asbestos can be downloaded at Asbestos in Schools [updated link].

If you wish to know about the presence of asbestos in your school you should ask your H&S or NUT representative to inspect your school's asbestos management record.