The hidden challenge in our School refurbishments: Asbestos

For many, the word asbestos feels like an issue consigned to the past. But for thousands of schools across the UK, it remains an ongoing challenge. 

The reality is that most school construction or refurbishment projects will uncover some form of asbestos, particularly in buildings constructed before 2000. While well managed asbestos presents minimal risk, any maintenance work, accidental damage, or even routine wear and tear can disturb hidden materials and change that picture quickly. 

That’s why, when we scope a project, asbestos is one of the first things we look for. Our experience in school environments means we know the typical locations where asbestos is likely to be found but also the less obvious ones. Over the years, we’veencountered asbestos in places that might surprise people, including: 

• Behind classroom pinboards and noticeboards 

• Inside window and door frames, including old putty and seals 

• Beneath vinyl flooring, especially within old black bitumen adhesives 

• In ceiling voids, concealed on pipe lagging or debris 

• Inside older fire doors, reinforced with asbestos board 

• Behind radiators or heaters on heat‑resistant wall panels 

• Around boilers, gaskets, rope seals, and flue insulation 

• Under science lab benches or sink pads 

• Within textured decorative coatings such as Artex 

• Inside electrical equipment, including fuse boards and heater units 

Because asbestos can be present in such varied and sometimes unexpected locations, we put robust plans in place for refurbishment and demolition surveys from the outset. This ensures any asbestos present is identified, handled safely, and managed in line with best practice so works can be undertaken safely and schools can continue operating while essential building work takes place.