What is RAAC and why could it present a potential asbestos risk?

A growing number of schools in England are facing a critical situation involving reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC), which has raised concerns about potential asbestos exposure.

Currently, more than 150 schools constructed with RAAC have surpassed their recommended 30-year lifespan and are now classified as hazardous. This has forced many institutions to temporarily close their doors due to safety apprehensions. Of particular concern is the fact that the period during which RAAC was extensively used (from the 1950s to the 1990s) coincides with widespread asbestos utilization in construction, prior to its eventual prohibition due to severe health hazards.

This overlapping timeline suggests a potential risk of asbestos exposure during the process of remediating the concrete. Such exposure could lead to prolonged remediation efforts, resulting in extended school closures lasting several months.

The Hidden Danger

Despite the ban on asbestos use over two decades ago, it still remains present in an estimated 300,000 non-domestic buildings across the UK. Interestingly, not all buildings affected by RAAC deterioration are suspected to contain asbestos.

Nonetheless, data from the Department for Education in 2019 reveals that approximately 81% of schools in England are known to have asbestos. This alarming statistic has prompted various campaigns and unions to issue repeated warnings over the years. In 2019 alone, there were more than 5,000 asbestos-related incidents, highlighting the severity of the issue.

The primary concern is that the process of evaluating and replacing deteriorating concrete panels may potentially disturb asbestos materials. Such disturbance poses a significant risk, as asbestos, when undisturbed, is relatively benign. However, when agitated, it releases tiny fibers that, if inhaled or ingested, can lead to deadly diseases such as mesothelioma.

Regulations in Place, but Oversight Lapses

Despite the existence of stringent management regulations designed to keep buildings afflicted by asbestos closed until safe removal, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has pointed out that some schools have failed to maintain up-to-date asbestos registers.

In April 2022, a parliamentary select committee report on work and pensions called on the government to establish a 40-year deadline for asbestos removal from non-residential structures, with a focus on high-risk areas like schools. However, this proposal was rejected by the government, citing concerns that it might increase the risk of exposure and potentially lead to inadequate removal practices.

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