Why Do I Need Asbestos Awareness Training?
Asbestos awareness training is a vital requirement for anyone who may come into contact with asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in their work environment. Workers and their supervisors must be able to recognise ACMs and know exactly what to do if they encounter them. This is particularly crucial in industries where disturbing asbestos during routine tasks is a real possibility.
The best way to protect workers from the harmful effects of asbestos exposure is through comprehensive asbestos awareness training. It is not just a formality—it could genuinely save lives. Courses offered by the Asbestos Awareness Certificate Company equip those at risk with the knowledge and understanding needed to avoid exposure to asbestos. This is essential for safeguarding their health and that of others in the workplace.
Asbestos awareness training doesn't just teach workers how to avoid ACMs; it gives them the tools to recognise potential hazards and act accordingly, following proper safety protocols to minimise risk. This knowledge is crucial, as asbestos is often hidden in plain sight, especially in older buildings. The course also covers what actions to take in the event of an accidental disturbance of ACMs, which can mean the difference between a safe workplace and a dangerous one.
Why is Asbestos Dangerous?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous material that was once widely used in construction due to its fire-resistant properties. However, its use has been banned in many countries, including the UK, after it was discovered that inhalation of asbestos fibres can cause several serious diseases, most of which affect the lungs or their lining.
Exposure to asbestos can lead to conditions like mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, as well as lung cancer and other chronic conditions like asbestosis and pleural thickening. What makes asbestos particularly dangerous is that asbestos-related diseases often take years or even decades to develop. This means that many individuals who have been exposed to asbestos in the past may not show symptoms until many years later.
The death rate from asbestos-related diseases increased steadily for most of the past half-century. According to figures published by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), over 5,000 people died from an asbestos-related disease in 2019 alone. Nearly half of those deaths were caused by mesothelioma, a disease that is almost exclusively linked to asbestos exposure.
The irreversible and often deadly nature of asbestos-related diseases makes it clear why asbestos awareness training is so important. Knowing how to identify potential risks and avoid exposure could prevent these life-threatening conditions from developing.
Is Asbestos Awareness Training a Legal Requirement?
Yes, asbestos awareness training is a legal requirement in the UK. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (Regulation 10) mandates that employers must arrange training for workers who are likely to be exposed to asbestos as part of their job. This requirement also applies to managers and supervisors who oversee workers in asbestos-risk environments.
The regulation exists because many people are unaware of what asbestos looks like, let alone the risks it poses. Our asbestos awareness courses, whether conducted on-site or through e-learning, are designed to provide workers with the information and instruction they need to work safely. This training is essential for reducing the risk of accidental exposure and ensuring that workplaces comply with legal requirements.
Failure to provide asbestos awareness training not only puts employees at risk but can also result in severe legal consequences for employers. As a result, businesses must take their duty of care seriously and provide adequate asbestos training for all relevant staff members.
Who Needs Asbestos Awareness Training?
Asbestos awareness training is necessary for any worker who may encounter asbestos but does not actively work with it on a day-to-day basis. For instance, many tradespeople, such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters, may unintentionally disturb asbestos while performing their regular tasks. Even though they do not handle asbestos directly, their work can inadvertently expose them to dangerous fibres if they lack the proper knowledge and precautions.
Our courses, approved by the Independent Asbestos Training Providers (IATP) and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), are tailored specifically for these workers. They are designed to ensure that anyone at risk of coming into contact with ACMs can identify the material and follow the correct procedures to avoid exposure.
Job roles that require asbestos awareness training include:
- General maintenance workers
- Electricians, plumbers, and gas fitters
- Roofers, painters, and decorators
- Plasterers, joiners, and shop fitters
- Telecommunications engineers
- Heating and ventilation engineers
- Architects and building surveyors
A more comprehensive list of roles requiring asbestos awareness training can be found here. It is important to note that self-employed workers are equally responsible for ensuring they receive the correct level of training to protect themselves and others from the risks associated with asbestos exposure.
Conclusion
Asbestos awareness training is not just about meeting legal requirements; it’s about ensuring that workers are educated, informed, and prepared to handle the dangers associated with asbestos. The training empowers employees to recognise asbestos, understand the associated risks, and take appropriate action to ensure safety.
By investing in asbestos awareness training through trusted providers like the Asbestos Awareness Certificate Company, employers can protect their workforce, reduce the risk of asbestos-related diseases, and ensure full compliance with UK regulations. To learn more about our courses or to book your training, visit our website today.
