Mesothelioma

But John Ross, from Suffolk County Council, said strict guidelines were in place to protect pupils.He said: “Any school building pre-1970 is likely to contain some asbestos, but pupils and teachers are not at any risk at all.“There are regulations which have been in place since 1983 that ensure any building work is carried out in a safe and satisfactory way.“The regulations are in place and we adhere strictly to them.”The government is in the process of implementing a £45billion programme to refurbish every secondary school and half of England's primary schools, although there is no guarantee asbestos will be eliminated from buildings.Asbestos is believed only to be a risk if it is disturbed or damaged, which can cause fibres to be released into the air.

If asbestos containing materials are in good condition and in a position where they are not going to be disturbed or damaged, it is safer to leave them where they are.

Electricians, plumbers, building maintenance workers and carpenters may still be at risk when carrying out refurbishment and repairs on buildings which contain asbestos.

But it is now thought that repeated low level exposures may also lead to asbestos induced cancers.

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