Unexpected Collapse of Beam in School Building Triggers Urgent Review of Aerated Concrete Safety

A recent incident involving the collapse of a beam at a school, which had previously been deemed safe, has led to new safety warnings regarding aerated concrete in school buildings across England. The schools minister, Nick Gibb, confirmed that this collapse occurred during the summer at a school that was believed to be at no risk from reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC).

Gibb explained that, based on the collapse and subsequent findings, the government was compelled to take swift action and issue a warning. He noted that RAAC, which had been considered low-risk in several buildings, turned out to pose a serious safety hazard. As a result, more than 50 schools across England are now facing potential closures or urgent safety evaluations to prevent future incidents.

While the beam collapse had no initial signs of risk, it has brought to light the dangerous instability of buildings with this type of concrete. The government is now advising schools to conduct thorough checks and take preventive actions to protect students and staff from potential danger.