The issue of asbestos in Scottish schools has once again been raised after staff at Nairn Academy had been informed that it was safe to use a woodwork area which was later found to contain asbestos dust, despite other classrooms to be closed.

The pupils and staff had initially been authorised to use the classroom, but it was later closed when concerns were raised over the presence of asbestos dust. Later tests confirmed that fibres had been present.

Over a year ago, experts had warned that asbestos dust could be in scores of public buildings across Scotland.

Large amounts of dust are expected to be contained in public buildings built before 2000; recent tests in England found that over 75% of school buildings contained the substance. Medical professionals, along with teachers and health and safety experts have raised concerns.

Following the incident at Nairn Academy, parents were advised that the health risks had been low, and the school remained closed for a number of days whilst it was cleaned.

Prior to the now known dangers, asbestos was regularly in buildings, on flooring and in ceilings, but its use is now banned in the UK.

If asbestos fibres are breathed into your lungs, it can damage your health leading to diffuse pleural thickening and pleural plaques, scarring of the lung tissue, asbestos-related lung cancer and mesothelioma, which unfortunately, if contracted, is fatal.

Health problems associated with exposure to asbestos can take years to manifest, sometimes even decades so the majority of victims do not discover the effect the exposure has had on their health until sometimes decades later. If you, or anyone you know, has been exposed to asbestos and developed any of the above conditions you can contact a member of our specialist industrial disease team for advice.