August 22nd, 2007

The New South Wales government has announced plans to undertake mass asbestos testing in schools in the area, with over one hundred thousand classrooms to be tested just in Sydney alone. The initiative has been put forward by the New South Wales Education Department.

According to the government thousands of classrooms and school buildings throughout the area contain asbestos, although the substance does not pose a danger unless broken or disturbed. However, if disturbed it can release dust and fibers into the air, which can cause a range of problems including respiratory problems and even a form of cancer known as mesothelioma.

One official stated: "What we're doing is looking for those materials that contain the asbestos so we know where they are. We're getting on to it now, I understand your impatience, but it is a huge task. Parents are going to know exactly where asbestos is in school buildings."

Parents and Citizens Federation spokeswoman Sharon Briggs said, "There's always an element of fear and unknown around asbestos. The P and C Federation has long held concerns that schools have gone unchecked, so the number does not shock us."