The majority of Gloucestershire's primary and secondary schools contain asbestos.

But the news shouldn't alarm parents, say county council chiefs, because the substance is only considered a danger when disturbed.

Asbestos is a mineral fibre which, when exposed to humans, can increase the risk of cancer.

Allan Foulds, headteacher of Bournside School in Cheltenham, said: "I am well aware of the fact that we've got asbestos in some of our buildings, but it should not be a cause for undue concern.

"We adhere to an asbestos register and it's an issue of strict compliance.

"Whenever any contractors come to work at the school, or if ever the possibility arises that asbestos might be disturbed – it is a major consideration so that we can ensure the health and safety of our pupils.

"It's about having a clean, safe environment and being fully aware of what the score is so that nothing untoward can happen."

Up until 1998, asbestos was used in the construction of buildings and can be found in most schools built before that time.

Used mainly for heat and fire insulation, the fibrous material can still be found in many building components from pipe insulation through to wallboards, sheet roofing material, and even vinyl floor tiles.

A spokesman for Gloucestershire County Council said: "Asbestos is not dangerous when sealed and in a stable condition but if disturbed it can release fibres into the air and these can cause serious health problems.

"Legislation now requires landlords to undertake formal risk assessments of their properties.

"They must also establish and maintain a register of the location and condition of asbestos and manage or remove the substance.

"All Gloucestershire County Council- controlled schools have been inspected by specialist asbestos-surveying companies and reports compiled.

"Where a survey has been carried out, an asbestos register is kept on site. This provides information on what asbestos is present and is suitable for most day-to-day works.

"Before any intrusive works on any buildings is begun a further survey must have already been carried out."

The county council has already spent in the region of £1.5 million removing asbestos from around 90 primary and secondary schools in the past eight years.

A Government programme to modernise the oldest secondary school in the country, thereby eliminating all risks of contamination, is under way.

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