The Education Directorate has released updated information on the way hazardous materials are managed in ACT public schools, including which schools contain lead paint and asbestos.
The Directorate said it managed public school buildings of varying ages across the ACT and many of the schools were built at a time when asbestos and lead paint were commonly used in the building industry.
“It’s a significant portfolio with 89 schools located across more than 100 sites, 76 of those schools contain some amount of asbestos and/or lead paint,” the Directorate said.
“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 is committed to ensuring all buildings remain safe for the school community and have the infrastructure to support high-quality education.”
It said significant resources were invested to maintain public schools and, in addition to the school upgrade program, regular repairs and maintenance were 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.
