Scottish teachers yesterday called for violent pupils to be given formal risk assessments before being allowed back into class.

The move came as teachers called for a crackdown on internet sites that used footage of bullying in classrooms.

It follows fears that levels of indiscipline are rising in schools, with teachers more likely than ever to be attacked in school. It is of particular concern to teachers that pupils who are expelled for violent behaviour are often returned to class after just a few days' absence.

In a bid to cut classroom violence, delegates at the annual conference of the Scottish Secondary Teachers Association (SSTA) in Aviemore voted unanimously in favour of a motion to force local authorities to introduce risk assessments.

Gordon West, from the SSTA's Aberdeenshire branch, who proposed the motion, said: "We believe the risk of being a victim of violent behaviour is one that should be taken seriously.

"Parents expect their children to be protected from violence as much as we believe staff should be protected from violence. Schools should be safe places and we believe risk assessments and subsequent measures to counter identified risks would go some way to making that a reality."

Elaine Henderson, also from Aberdeenshire, seconded the motion, adding: "One of the biggest dangers to pupils is other pupils and we must take steps to control this in a measured and reflective way."

Teachers also voted unanimously to back a motion calling for tighter regulation of internet sites using footage of bullying.

The call follows cases where pupils have used camera phones to record staff or other pupils being bullied before posting it on the web.

Ann Ballinger, from the East Dunbartonshire branch, proposed the motion. She said: "At its worst, the internet provides a vehicle for exhibiting an excess of anonymous bullying and harassment, malicious accusations and the destruction of reputations - even physical violence.

"The operators of the sites where these images are displayed show no responsibility for any material and this has to change."

Later, the SSTA also called for an urgent review of local authority schools to ensure no dangerous asbestos remains in walls and ceilings.

There are still significant numbers of older buildings in use which were constructed when the danger of asbestos was not fully known.

Councils have argued that all local authorities are conducting or have carried out risk assessments following regulations published by the Health and Safety Executive last year but the SSTA wants to see all asbestos removed.

Donald MacDougall, from the SSTA's health and safety advisory panel, who proposed the motion, demanded an "intensive" audit by the Scottish Executive to ensure no asbestos remained in schools.