Gas masks and asbestos - advice to schools

​​​The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has previously advised that it was not appropriate for children or teachers to wear or handle a Second World War gas mask unless it can be clearly demonstrated that the particular mask does not contain asbestos. ​

Since issuing this advice, HSE has analysed a number of vintage masks for the presence of asbestos. This work has confirmed that no gas masks should be worn or handled by children or teachers.​