Asbestos
This information is about asbestos in Queensland state schools and those Early Childhood Education and Care centres owned by the Department of Education (DoE).
It is for parents and caregivers, parent and citizens' associations (P&Cs) and service providers.
- What is asbestos?
- Asbestos in schools and department facilities
- Information for parents and caregivers
- Information for P&Cs
- Information for service providers and contractors
- Contacts
- Further information
What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral previously used in building and other products throughout the world. Simply working or studying in a building containing asbestos is not dangerous as long as the asbestos is in good condition (i.e. undamaged).
People who regularly do repairs, renovations and other work that can release asbestos fibres into the air are most at risk of future asbestos disease. Asbestos is only a risk to health when asbestos fibres become airborne and are breathed into the lungs.
Asbestos in schools and department-owned facilities
The department manages asbestos in schools through registers to identify where asbestos is present, progressive removal of asbestos, and safe work procedures.
Read more about asbestos management in department facilities.
Information for parents and caregivers
The management of asbestos-containing material in schools is an issue we take very seriously. Our highest priority is the health, safety and wellbeing of students and staff.
You can visit the Department of Health website to:
- view the registers of asbestos materials in schools and Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) centres
- view videos about asbestos in schools and health effects
- view historical testing results for asbestos-contaminated dust following past asbestos incidents.
Information for P&Cs
School P&C members and visitors must obtain a Work Area Access Permit (WAAP) before commencement of any maintenance, installation, refurbishment and construction related works of any description.
For more information about P&C responsibilities, contact your school Principal or Early Childhood Education and Care centre Director.
Information for service providers and contractors
Service providers and contractors for building works, maintenance and other services can read about working at department facilities.
Contacts
Contact us for enquiries about departmental policy, media issues or specific asbestos-related incidents in schools.