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<p>The Property Data Survey gathers high-level condition data across the state-funded
educational estate in England only. The surveyors employed on the programme are general
building surveyors and they perform a visual, non-intrusive survey. In comparison,
considerably more detailed surveys are required to assess asbestos and that is why
asbestos is not included as part of the Property Data Survey.</p><p>The Department
for Education does not have a programme for the phased removal of all asbestos from
schools in England. Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations, the employer - either
the school or local authority - has clear responsibilities to manage asbestos containing
materials in schools safely. The advice from the Health and Safety Executive is that
it is safer to leave undisturbed or undamaged asbestos in place and to carefully manage
it rather than to risk disturbing or damaging asbestos unnecessarily. If asbestos
is managed effectively, as required by the regulations, the safest and most effective
way to plan for its removal is when existing buildings are refurbished or replaced.</p>
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