The Education Directorate is to host drop-in sessions to give the public an opportunity to learn more about how it manages hazardous materials in ACT public schools.
The Directorate said sessions would be held from 6pm to 8pm at Dickson College on 10 May; Canberra College on 11 May; Lake Tuggeranong College on 12 May; and UCSS Lake Ginninderra on 13 May.
“Information about hazardous materials and schools in your region will be available at these drop-in sessions,” the Directorate said.
“Members of the Directorate’s Hazardous Materials Taskforce will be available to answer questions, as will lead paint expert Professor Mark Taylor,” it said.
“He is one of the specialists guiding hazardous materials work in ACT public schools ensuring our management is informed by international best practice.”
The Directorate said people could attend any session, and would need to sign in at the school when they arrived.
Earlier this month, the Directorate released updated information on the way hazardous materials were managed in public schools, including which schools contained lead paint and asbestos.
“We conduct regular reviews of all school buildings to check the condition of hazardous materials so we can respond quickly to any emerging issue,” it said.
The Directorate said significant resources were allocated to maintain public schools and, in addition to the school upgrade program, regular repairs and maintenance work was carried out.
“This work creates an opportunity to address hazardous materials,” the Directorate said.
“For example, upgrading school windows to improve comfort for students may include the removal of windows with lead paint,” it said.
Further information about hazardous materials in schools, including a list of schools which contain asbestos and/or lead paint, can be accessed at this PS News link.
