UKATA Asbestos Awareness Training
Asbestos remains one of the biggest causes of work-related ill health in the UK, making it essential for workers to understand how to recognise and avoid disturbing asbestos-containing materials. The UKATA Asbestos Awareness course provides delegates with the knowledge required to identify the risks associated with asbestos, understand where it may be found and know what actions to take if asbestos is encountered during work activities. The course supports compliance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations and helps reduce the risk of accidental asbestos exposure.
• Introduction to Asbestos Awareness
An overview of asbestos, why it was widely used in construction and industry, and the health risks associated with exposure to asbestos fibres.
• Types of Asbestos and Their Uses
Understanding the different types of asbestos and where they have historically been used within domestic, commercial and industrial buildings.
• Health Effects of Asbestos Exposure
Learning about asbestos-related diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma, and the long-term consequences of exposure.
• Legal Requirements and Responsibilities
Understanding the legal framework governing asbestos management, including the responsibilities of employers, employees and duty holders.
• Identifying Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACMs)
Learning where asbestos may be present within buildings and recognising materials that could contain asbestos.
• Avoiding the Risks from Asbestos
Understanding how to work safely in environments where asbestos may be present and the precautions that should be taken to prevent exposure.
• What to Do if Asbestos is Discovered
Learning the correct procedures to follow if suspected asbestos-containing materials are encountered, damaged or disturbed.
• Asbestos Management and Control Measures
Understanding asbestos surveys, registers, management plans and the importance of following site-specific asbestos procedures.
• Emergency Procedures and Incident Reporting
Learning the actions to take in the event of accidental asbestos disturbance and the importance of reporting incidents promptly.
• Assessment
Delegates complete an assessment to demonstrate their understanding of asbestos hazards, safe working practices and legal requirements.
Typical course hours are 08:30–12:30 or 13:00–17:00. Exact start and finish times may vary depending on the training centre and course schedule. Training is delivered through a combination of:
- Instructor-led teaching
- Technical presentations
- Visual examples and case studies
- Group discussions
- Interactive learning activities
- Assessment
Delegates are encouraged to actively participate throughout the course to develop their understanding of asbestos hazards, legal responsibilities and safe working practices.
This course is designed for anyone who may come into contact with asbestos-containing materials during their work activities. It is particularly suitable for construction operatives, maintenance personnel, electricians, plumbers, heating engineers, decorators, joiners, surveyors, site managers and other tradespeople who may work in buildings constructed before asbestos was banned.
There are no formal prerequisites for this course.