RAAC is a lightweight form of concrete and was used in the construction of schools, colleges, and other buildings from the 1950s until the mid-1990s.
It is very different from traditional concrete and because of the way in which it was made, it is much weaker. The estimated duration of RAAC is around 30 years and so much of the construction that used this material is past its designed life span.
Because of this, it is important to identify which buildings contain RAAC so that work can be done to make sure those buildings are structurally safe. RAAC presents no other health hazards.
This is a national issue that has been identified and which local authorities nationwide are taking action on.
RAAC inspections in Oldham
Property |
Current information |
---|---|
Local authority-controlled schools |
We completed RAAC assessments in June 2023 across all council-maintained schools and no RAAC has been found. |
Other council buildings e.g. town halls, libraries |
We are currently assessing council owned and managed buildings across the borough. We expect to complete the assessments by the end of 2023. |
Other buildings not managed by the council – e.g. Academies, housing |
We are working with our partners to ensure appropriate investigations are being carried out to identify RAAC in their buildings. |
Further guidance
RAAC Government Guidance - GOV.UK website
Health and Safety Executive Guidance - HSE website
For queries relating to RAAC in Oldham, please contact Oldham Council Property Service Desk on 0161 770 8880 or email propertyservicedesk@oldham.gov.uk