BRADFORD University has confirmed that some of its buildings still contain asbestos, but that the presence of the material is being managed.

The extent of the substance's presence was revealed after a freedom of information request was sent to universities across the country.

A total of 85 per cent of those institutions who replied said the harmful fibres were to be found on their premises.

A spokesman for Bradford University told the Telegraph & Argus that a number of its buildings were built in the 1960s, a period during which asbestos was widely used, but they have "robust management plans" in place to deal with it.

He added: "The University maintains a register identifying all areas with asbestos-containing materials. This is managed in accordance with the Health and Safety Executive legislative requirements.

"The University was recently inspected by the HSE as part of their educational establishment monitoring programme, and was found to be compliant with the required management procedures."

A total of 106 universities across England were asked about the presence of asbestos in their buildings. Of the 91 who replied, 77 confirmed they did indeed have asbestos in their buildings.

Other universities in Yorkshire and the Humber found to have the substance in their properties included Sheffield Hallam, Leeds Beckett and the University of Huddersfield.

Asbestos was used in buildings for roof and floor insulation before it was banned in the UK in 1999. According to the HSE, it can be present today in any building built or refurbished before the year 2000.

When materials that contain asbestos are disturbed or damaged, fibres are released into the air.

If these fibres are inhaled they can cause serious diseases, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis.

As a result it often takes a long time to develop, meaning diagnosis occurs many years after the original contact with the material.

If the asbestos is located where it cannot easily be damaged, it should not present a risk, the HSE adds.

Stephensons Solicitors LLP, which submitted the information request, is calling for students and staff to be better informed about the potential dangers of asbestos on campus or in student accommodation.

Kate Sweeney, from Stephensons, said it was not surprising that so many higher education institutions reported having asbestos, given the age of many buildings on their estates.

“As thousands of new students start uni and undergraduates return to their studies, we are calling on universities to better inform students and staff if there is asbestos present on campus and the measures being taken to manage it,” she said.

“A consistent and clear message needs to be added to websites, student newspapers and department notice boards.”

Liz Darlison, head of services at Mesothelioma UK, said: “The prevalence of mesothelioma in the UK does not appear to be slowing down, and concern about the effect of low levels of exposure to asbestos is increasing.

“As a new academic year starts for students, the presence of asbestos in educational buildings – from schools, colleges to universities – is an issue we need to address as a national priority.”