The Hidden Risk That Hasn't Gone Away
Asbestos awareness training remains essential for UK workplaces, with thousands of buildings still containing asbestos-containing materials.
When people hear the word “asbestos”, many assume it is a problem that disappeared decades ago because asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999.
Unfortunately, that is not the case.
According to the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), around 5,000 people continue to die every year in Great Britain from asbestos-related diseases. Asbestos remains one of the biggest workplace health risks in the UK, despite its use being prohibited for over 25 years.
The reason? Thousands of buildings built or refurbished before the year 2000 still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). This means that workers, contractors and anyone responsible for building maintenance could still encounter asbestos as part of their everyday work.
Why Is Asbestos Still a Problem After the Ban?
Asbestos is made up of tiny fibres that are invisible to the naked eye. When asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed, these fibres can become airborne and may be inhaled or carried on clothing.
If asbestos is in good condition and left undisturbed, it may not present an immediate risk. However, problems can occur during activities such as:
• Drilling into walls or ceilings
• Cutting or sanding materials
• Carrying out repairs or maintenance work
• Refurbishing older buildings
• Removing or replacing building materials
Once inhaled, asbestos fibres can remain in the body for many years and may eventually lead to serious health conditions, including mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer and asbestosis.
The effects of asbestos exposure often do not appear until decades later, which is why preventing exposure remains so important.
Where Could Asbestos Still Be Found?
Many workplaces across the UK may still contain asbestos, particularly buildings constructed before 2000.
This could include:
• Offices
• Schools and educational buildings
• Warehouses
• Industrial premises
• Public buildings
• Commercial properties
• Residential properties
From offices and schools to warehouses and industrial buildings, asbestos could still be hidden within the fabric of older properties - often in places you would not expect.
Why Is Asbestos Awareness Training Important?
Asbestos awareness training is not about making employees asbestos removal specialists. Instead, it provides the knowledge needed to recognise potential asbestos-containing materials, understand the risks and know what action to take if asbestos is suspected.
Effective asbestos awareness training helps workers:
✓ Understand the dangers of asbestos exposure
✓ Identify common asbestos-containing materials
✓ Avoid accidentally disturbing asbestos
✓ Know what to do if asbestos is discovered
✓ Support compliance with UK health and safety legislation
For employers, providing asbestos awareness training helps protect employees, contractors and anyone who may be affected by workplace activities.
Who Needs Asbestos Awareness Training?
Many people believe asbestos training is only required for specialist asbestos removal contractors. However, asbestos awareness training is recommended for anyone who could disturb asbestos during their work. This includes:
• Electricians
• Plumbers
• Builders
• Joiners
• Painters and decorators
• Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) engineers
• Facilities teams
• Property managers
• Maintenance workers
• Site supervisors
If your role involves working in or around older buildings, asbestos awareness training could help you identify potential risks before they become a serious problem.
Looking for Asbestos Awareness Training in Essex and Suffolk?
Safetymen are experienced Health & Safety Trainers, Consultants and HR Advisors based in Clacton-on-Sea, Essex. As a family-run business with over 20 years of experience, we provide practical, industry-focused training designed to help businesses keep their workforce safe and meet their legal responsibilities.
Our asbestos training courses include:
Asbestos Awareness Training: https://www.safetymen.co.uk/courses/asbestos-awareness-training/
Duty to Manage Asbestos in Buildings Training: https://www.safetymen.co.uk/courses/duty-to-manage-asbestos-in-buildings/
Asbestos Non-Licensed Works Training:
https://www.safetymen.co.uk/courses/asbestos-non-licensed-works-training/
Our IATP Approved Online Options: Browse our online Asbestos courses, or click here for more information: IATP Approved Online Awareness Course
Contact Us For Guidance & Advice
Our asbestos training courses can be completed in just half a day, giving your team essential knowledge about asbestos risks and workplace compliance while minimising disruption to your working day.
To find out more about asbestos awareness training or any of our health and safety courses, please contact Safetymen today on 01255 863125 or click on the button below to get in touch.