Asbestos Courses

Learn How to Recognise, Handle & Remove Asbestos Containing Materials

Asbestos courses are indispensable for individuals working in industries where exposure to asbestos is a risk, such as construction, renovation, and demolition. These courses cover crucial topics including the identification, handling, and removal of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), as well as the health hazards associated with asbestos exposure and relevant regulations and guidelines. Participants learn how to recognise different types of asbestos, assess asbestos risks in the workplace, and implement safe work practices to minimise exposure. Through interactive training sessions, practical exercises, and case studies, asbestos courses provide the knowledge and skills necessary to safely manage asbestos-related tasks and protect workers' health. Whether you're a contractor, supervisor, or safety professional, these courses offer a structured pathway to obtaining the certifications and qualifications required to work safely around asbestos. By investing in asbestos training, individuals and organisations can ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, reduce the risk of asbestos-related illnesses, and create safer work environments for everyone involved.

Asbestos Containing Materials (ACM)

ACMs stands for Asbestos-Containing Materials—products or building materials that include asbestos fibres. In the UK, ACMs are commonly found in buildings constructed or refurbished before the year 2000, when the use of asbestos was finally banned. These materials may include insulation boards, ceiling tiles, pipe lagging, textured coatings, and cement products. While often safe when left undisturbed, ACMs become extremely hazardous if damaged or deteriorated, releasing tiny asbestos fibres into the air that can be inhaled.

From a health and safety perspective, identifying and managing ACMs is a legal requirement under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. Duty holders, such as property managers or employers, must ensure that any asbestos risks are assessed, recorded, and managed appropriately. This often includes asbestos surveys, staff training, and safe removal or encapsulation of the materials where necessary. Ignoring or mishandling ACMs can lead to severe legal consequences and long-term health risks like asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer.

Governed by the Control of Asbestos Regulations 201

The use, management, and removal of asbestos is strictly governed by the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. These regulations place legal duties on employers, building owners, and duty holders to prevent exposure to asbestos fibres, which are known to cause serious health conditions such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. The law applies to all non-domestic premises and any residential property where maintenance or repair work is carried out.

Under the regulations, duty holders must identify and assess asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), maintain an up-to-date asbestos register, and implement an asbestos management plan. They must also ensure that anyone who could disturb ACMs—such as maintenance workers, contractors, or tradespeople—receives proper asbestos awareness training. Any work on asbestos must be carried out by trained, and in many cases licensed, professionals. Non-compliance with asbestos regulations can result in substantial fines, prosecution, and long-term health risks for workers and building occupants.

What is the Duty to Manage Asbestos?

The Duty to Manage Asbestos is a legal requirement under Regulation 4 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. It applies to those who manage non-domestic premises—such as employers, landlords, property managers, or anyone with control over a building. This duty ensures that anyone who might disturb asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) during maintenance, refurbishment, or construction work is protected from exposure to harmful asbestos fibres.

To comply with this duty, the responsible person must identify the location and condition of asbestos, keep an up-to-date asbestos register, and develop a detailed asbestos management plan. Regular monitoring, risk assessments, and clear communication with workers and contractors are also required. Failing to meet this duty can result in legal enforcement, hefty fines, and significant health risks for anyone working on or occupying the premises. Proper asbestos training and awareness are key parts of managing these responsibilities effectively.