News
Compliance inspections in schools: Are you prepared?
Jun. 10 2020
Schools have faced unprecedented disruption this year, with the majority of pupils unable to attend lessons for months due to COVID-19.
Working closely with those in the education sector, we understand the challenges being faced. That’s why Bureau Veritas is working with clients in the education sector to help them to meet their compliance obligations over the summer holiday period and reduce the risk of any further disruption.
All schools have a duty to keep students, employees and visitors safe. This includes effective management and reporting of any asbestos on-site, as well as routine inspections of fixed electrical installations:
Non-compliance can put your school or organisation at risk of large fines, not to mention risking the health and safety of staff, pupils and visitors.
Asbestos is believed to be present in around 90% of school buildings and more than 200 teachers have died in the last ten years from the effects of being exposed to asbestos.
It is also important to highlight that appointing an electrical contractor to undertake electrical inspections does not dissolve your obligations as a Duty Holder.
To support schools in meeting their obligations and reducing risk, Bureau Veritas offers a range of services, particularly when it comes to the key safety concerns of asbestos and electrical safety.
Michael Kenyon, Electrical Technical Lead for Bureau Veritas said: “We have a long history of working with schools and colleges, which means we understand the regulations and how best to meet your requirements more than most. We’re also one of few compliance partners in the UK that can support both fixed electrical testing and asbestos management and reporting, without having to book multiple providers.
“More than that, because we know the sector so well, we understand the importance of minimising disruption. Booking your inspections now will ensure our engineers can visit over the summer holidays when schools are closed to pupils. After the disruption already faced in 2020, it’s more important than ever that statutory maintenance, which includes testing and inspection, is done without impacting lessons.”