The Department of Education and Training has recently completed a survey of its school and college sites in order to establish an Asbestos Register. The Register identifies the existence and location of any known or presumed asbestos-containing materials on our sites.

The Director-General of the Department of Education and Training, Michael Coutts-Trotter, said the Department’s highest priority is the health, safety and wellbeing of our students and staff.

“For this reason the Department has implemented processes to ensure that potential asbestos is identified and appropriately controlled,” Mr Coutts-Trotter added.

“Some of our schools, like many buildings throughout the country, were constructed decades ago using asbestos-containing materials in the roof, floors and walls, or with asbestos in insulation and ceilings.

“In the vast majority of cases, asbestos-containing materials are safe.  If these products are left undisturbed and are in sound condition, studies show that it does not pose an immediate health risk.”

Mr Coutts-Trotter said the Asbestos Register identifies the existence and location of any known or presumed asbestos-containing materials on our sites. 

“The register will ensure that contractors working on our sites will know where they are likely to encounter asbestos-containing materials and can therefore take necessary precautions,” he said.

“Asbestos-containing materials that have deteriorated, and therefore may represent a health hazard, are immediately treated or removed from schools and TAFEs. 

“When fragments are found on a school site, the site is immediately investigated and action is quickly taken by licensed contractors, including Occupational Hygienists to rectify the issue. 

“Once work is completed, a further assessment is carried out to confirm that the work has been conducted in accordance with WorkCover requirements and that the area is safe for school use. When appropriate, work is conducted on weekends and during school holidays.

“Where our survey has found material that has been disturbed or is not in sound condition, we have identified an appropriate project and timeframe to address this. 

“We have already completed the majority of priority works in some locations, such as replacing pipe lagging that contained asbestos.  Some larger projects will be completed during this year’s vacation periods.

“We are starting a number of other jobs, such as replacing broken or unsealed material inside electrical distribution board cupboards.

"The Department will distribute registers to school Principals in mid-October and will follow up with each Principal to talk through any concerns they may have.Each school and college will be sent two copies of their asbestos register. One copy must remain with the schools hazardous materials register - the other copy will be available for students, staff or parents to view if they would like to read it.

"In the meantime, the Department’s, "What You Need to Know About Asbestos-Containing Materials" guide, can also be found on our intranet site.

"This guide is designed for Principals, staff and school communities to provide an overview of asbestos and the Department’s asbestos management policy."