Worsbrough Bank End Primary will remain closed until after Christmas after flood damage led to the discovery of asbestos.
Over 220 pupils at Worsbrough Bank End Primary had their September holiday extended by more than a week as the school could not reopen due to the asbestos findings. The students then moved into temporary buildings at other schools such as Barnsley Academy and the Sunnybank Children’s Centre.
The total cost of repairs and alternative arrangements for the students are estimated at £300,000, but the council says insurance is covering the bill.
The school was initially going to be closed for at least two months; however the current estimate is that the school will not return to normal until January 5.
The duty to manage’ asbestos
Dutyholders should know whether their premises contain asbestos, where it is and what condition it is in, it is also imperative that they then manage it properly.
The risks from asbestos to employees and others should be assessed and managed. Anyone who is likely to work on, or disturb asbestos should be provided with information about its location and condition.
Responsibilities for the duty holder of a school include:
- keeping an up-to-date record of the location and condition of ACMs in the school
- assessing the risks from any ACMs in the school
- making plans to manage the risks from ACMs in the school
- putting those plans into action