No Isle of Wight schools are affected by the current reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) controversy hitting the news today (Thursday 31st August).
More than 100 schools across the country were informed today that they would not be able to use school buildings that were built during the 1950s-1990s using RAAC, with immediate effect, until safety work is undertaken.
What is RAAC?
This “bubbly form of concrete” looks like normal concrete but is weaker and less durable. It is typically used on roofs, but also can be found in walls and floors.
Experts say this form of concrete is “susceptible to sudden failure”, hence the need for immediate action.
However, readers may remember news about RAAC as far back as 2018, when, 24 hours after signs of structural stress began to appear, the roof of a primary school in Kent collapsed.
Thankfully the Isle of Wight council say that no school buildings they are responsible for on the Island are affected.
Image: southbeachcars under CC BY 2.0
