Schools need better protection from asbestos, union says

The NASUWT union is marking Workers’ Memorial Day by remembering those that have died because of asbestos exposure in schools.

The NASUWT has consistently called for greater action to be taken to protect the education workforce and pupils from exposure to asbestos, to which the group has dubbed “the hidden killer in our schools”.

In light of this, the union has stated that “in too many schools, statutory and good practice provisions relating to the management of asbestos is being flouted”, and that it is “vital” that the government focus on health and safety for all workers, which includes the education workforce.

Chris Keates, general secretary of the NASUWT, said: “It is scandalous that over 300 teachers in the UK have died from entirely avoidable asbestos-related disease.

“There are still significant numbers of schools ignoring health and safety provisions and who are not managing their asbestos effectively, putting pupils and staff at risk.

“Research undertaken by the NASUWT reveals that more than 75 per cent of schools today are riddled with asbestos, putting at risk the lives of teachers and pupils.”

He added: “Any future government after June 8 must demonstrate that it will champion the right to a healthy life for all workers, including teachers.”