A HEALTH and Safety investigation has been launched after it was revealed asbestos was found at a Rossendale high school.

The discovery was made during refurbishment work on the science laboratories at Haslingden High.

The substance, an insulation material, which elsewhere has been blamed for a variety of illnesses, some of which have led to death as a result of breathing in its fibres, was found in the ceiling of the reprographics room.

Lancashire County Council immediately informed the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and an investigation has been launched.

Letters have been sent to parents and staff to let them know about the incident and the action taken to reassure them that the school is safe.

The room where the asbestos was found is not a classroom used by pupils and has been sealed since the discovery during the summer holidays.

Work has been carried out by a specialist firm to remove the substance before the start of the autumn term.

Tests completed by the principal scientist from the County Analyst's laboratory after the discovery found that there was "no measurable trace" of asbestos in the adjoining rooms or corridors.

As a double-check, further tests have been carried out this week in every room and area in the Greens Lane building which have confirmed that there is no trace of asbestos.

The Health Protection Agency is aware of the situation and their advice is that any risk to health is very low.

Lancashire County Council's Cabinet Member for Education County Councillor Alan Whittaker, said: "We appreciate that the whole school community will be concerned about this incident and we are doing everything possible to make sure staff, pupils, parents and school governors are fully informed of the situation.

"We would not allow pupils to return to school if we thought the building was dangerous."

The school has declined to comment.