HSE warning: WW1 steel helmets should not be worn or handled.
In the centenary year of WW1 schools could use steel helmets in lessons. The Imperial War Museum has found that the majority of WW1 helmets tested contain asbestsos in the inner padding. HSE has issued a warning that they should not be worn or handled unless clearly certified as safe to do so.
ASBESTOS RISK – WORLD WAR II & VINTAGE GAS MASKS
In July 2013 JUAC issued a warning to all schools about asbestos risk from World War II gas masks.
Following a series of tests the HSE have now issued a strong warning having found that the majority of the gas mask tested did contain asbestos.
The HSE warn that “No gas masks should be worn or handled by children or teachers.”
Despite these warnings hundreds of gas masks continue to appear for sale every day on online web sites. Trading Standards are taking steps to address this but in the meantime the JUAC urges all schools and members of the public not to purchase, wear or handle any gas masks.
JUAC warning:
http://juac.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Gas-Masks-Warning.pdf
HSE warning:
http://www.asbestosexposureschools.co.uk/pdfnewslinks/Gas%20Masks%20-%20Letter%20with%20Advice.pdf
12.05.14
After intensive lobbying by the JUAC and Asbestos in Schools campaign we are pleased to announce that the HSE have issued guidance on the dangers of asbestos in gas masks to the three Education Departments in Great Britain