Mesothelioma-causing asbestos still an issue in UK schools
In the United Kingdom, Rochdale MP Paul Rowen is working tirelessly to improve the way the government is handling the complex issue of managing asbestos in schools across the nation. Rowen recently met with School’s Minister Diana Johnson to discuss options for tackling the asbestos menace. It has been estimated that perhaps as many as 75% of schools in Britain contain asbestos, a potentially deadly substance linked to the rare cancer mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is just one of many asbestos-related illnesses a person may contract if they accidentally inhale or ingest airborne asbestos particles. Mesothelioma affects thousands of patients worldwide each year.
Rowen said: “This meeting is the most recent step in our campaign to highlight and tackle the problem of asbestos in schools. The current system to control asbestos is failing our pupils and teachers, who are being exposed to the incurable disease of mesothelioma in later life.
"The meeting covered a wide range of issues such as the recent work that has been done on surveying asbestos levels in schools and the guidance and training that must be implemented to ensure that asbestos is dealt with correctly. I also made it clear that the Government must ensure that they moderate closely the management of asbestos in schools to ensure that up to date information is held, surveys are routinely carried out, and management plans are written and followed up.
"The meeting was very positive and I am confident that Diana Johnson and the Government are committed to working with us to tackle these problems. The Government needs to make sure that there are people in place at the Department for Children, Schools and families who are sufficiently qualified to deal with this problem. This is something that the Minister accepted and agreed to look into.”
