HSE Construction Initiative: What Inspectors Are Looking For

It’s not exactly cloak-and-dagger or Agatha Christie’s latest murder mystery... but the presence of a Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspector on site can sometimes be the difference between life and death. Curious? Read on.

This is the second article in our blog series exploring everything you need to know about the Health & Safety Executive and their role in construction site safety.

This Year’s Focus: Health as Well as Safety

The message for this year’s Construction Initiative is clear: it’s about health as well as safety. Poor standards and unsafe practices on Britain’s building sites are being targeted in a nationwide campaign aimed at reducing ill health, injury, and death across the industry.

Throughout October, HSE construction inspectors will be carrying out unannounced site visits to locations where refurbishment or repair works are underway. This is the ninth annual initiative, and it builds on the outcomes of previous campaigns by focusing on real improvement and risk prevention.

What Does the Initiative Aim to Achieve?

The core aims of the Construction Initiative are to:

• Improve industry standards — particularly on small sites


• Raise awareness of HSE expectations across the sector


• Demonstrate that enforcement action will be taken when needed

What Will Inspectors Be Looking For?

During inspections, HSE officers will assess whether the following areas are being properly managed:

• Risks to health from exposure to dust such as silica


• Worker awareness of asbestos — including where it may be found and how to respond


• Other health risks such as noise, vibration, manual handling and hazardous substances


• Jobs involving work at height — ensuring appropriate planning and structural support


• Safe use and maintenance of equipment and machinery


• General site organisation — including obstruction-free walkways, safe stairways, and adequate welfare facilities

Ultimately, the initiative is a way for the HSE to reinforce its message: poor standards won’t be tolerated, and non-compliant sites may face immediate enforcement action.

A Final Word on Intervention Fees

If an inspector does find significant issues on your site, action can be taken — and that could include intervention fees. These are charges introduced by the HSE for time spent dealing with material breaches of the law. If you’re not familiar with how intervention fees work, be sure to read our previous blog.

What Happens After You Pass an Asbestos Awareness Course?

You’ve completed your training, passed the test, and received your asbestos awareness certificate — but what now? Many people aren’t sure what the next steps are or what their responsibilities include after becoming certified.

Here’s what to expect once you've passed your course.

You’ll Receive Your Certificate

As soon as you pass your asbestos awareness course with UKASL, your certificate is made available for immediate download. Most employers, contractors and site managers will accept digital copies, though some may prefer a printed version for on-site files.

Your certificate will clearly state the approval body — RoSPA or IATP — and the date of issue. Keep a copy saved somewhere secure and send one to your employer if required.

Your Certification Is Valid for 12 Months

Asbestos awareness certificates are typically valid for one year. After that, the HSE recommends refresher training to ensure you remain up to date with regulations, procedures, and best practice.

You do not need to retake the full course unless your work practices have changed significantly or you’ve had a long gap in asbestos-related work.

You’re Not Qualified to Handle Asbestos

Category A training — asbestos awareness — does not qualify you to remove or handle asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). It’s important to understand this distinction, especially if you’re new to the industry.

The course equips you to recognise asbestos, understand the risks, and take steps to avoid disturbing it. If your work involves actually disturbing or removing asbestos, you will need Category B or Category C training from a licensed provider.

You Should Inform Employers and Clients

Once certified, make sure your employer or site manager is aware — especially if you’re working on multiple projects. It’s often a mandatory requirement for gaining site access, bidding for contracts, or completing health and safety files.

Consider Adding It to Your CV or CSCS Card

If you’re self-employed or looking for work, having asbestos awareness training on your CV can help open doors — particularly in construction, facilities management, and maintenance roles.

Some industry schemes (like CSCS or similar site access programmes) allow you to link training records to your profile or card application. Check with your scheme provider for options.

Ready for Your Next Course?

If you’ve passed Category A and are moving into work that might involve direct contact with asbestos, consider your next step. Category B (non-licensed work) and Category C (licensed removal) require face-to-face training and are often role-specific.

Not sure what you need? Contact us and we’ll help guide you.

Explore our asbestos training courses or speak to a member of our team.

Can I Take Asbestos Awareness Training Online?

In a word — yes. Asbestos awareness training can be completed entirely online, and it’s fully valid as long as the course meets legal standards. In fact, online training is now the most common way for professionals to get certified quickly and affordably.

Is Online Asbestos Training Legally Recognised?

Yes, provided it meets the requirements of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) does not mandate face-to-face training for awareness-level courses. As long as the provider is competent and the course covers the necessary content, an online certificate is legally acceptable.

UKASL’s online asbestos awareness courses are approved by both IATP and RoSPA, making them widely recognised across all industries in the UK.

What’s Included in the Online Course?

Online asbestos awareness training typically includes modules on:

• The properties of asbestos and its health effects


• The different types of asbestos and where they are found


• How to avoid disturbing asbestos-containing materials


• Emergency procedures if asbestos is accidentally disturbed

The course usually takes less than two hours to complete. Most providers, including UKASL, offer 24/7 access, so you can take the training at your own pace — even from a mobile device.

Who Can Take It?

Anyone who may come into contact with asbestos during their work needs this training. That includes:

• Electricians


• Plumbers


• Joiners and decorators


• Maintenance staff and caretakers


• Contractors and labourers

Many employers also use online training to bring new hires up to speed during induction.

How Do I Choose a Reputable Online Provider?

Not all courses are created equal. Look for:

• Certification from RoSPA or IATP


• Immediate downloadable certificates


• Content that matches HSE guidelines


• Clear user reviews and UK-based customer support

Get Started with UKASL

At UKASL, our online asbestos awareness courses are approved by both RoSPA and IATP, ensuring full compliance. With instant certification, multi-user options for businesses, and user-friendly modules, we make it easy to stay safe and legal — wherever you’re working from.

Click here to enrol and get certified online today.

5 Things Employers Need to Know About Asbestos Compliance in 2025

Even in 2025, asbestos remains one of the biggest occupational health risks in the UK. If you're an employer, landlord, or facilities manager, you have a legal duty to protect anyone who may come into contact with asbestos in your premises or on your sites.

Here are five critical things you need to know to ensure you're meeting your responsibilities under current asbestos regulations.

1. Asbestos Is Still Present in Thousands of UK Buildings

Any building constructed before the year 2000 could contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). This includes schools, offices, hospitals, factories, and homes. Just because the building looks modern doesn’t mean it’s asbestos-free.

Employers have a duty to identify these materials and manage the risk appropriately — ignoring it won’t make it go away, and the HSE takes non-compliance seriously.

2. You Must Have an Up-to-Date Asbestos Management Plan

If you're responsible for non-domestic premises, you must have an asbestos management plan in place. This includes identifying ACMs, assessing their condition, recording the findings, and making sure anyone who might work on or disturb them knows where they are.

This isn’t a one-and-done exercise — the plan must be kept up to date and reviewed regularly.

3. Asbestos Awareness Training Is a Legal Requirement

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, any worker who may disturb asbestos during their normal work must receive asbestos awareness training. This applies to tradespeople, maintenance teams, and contractors — even if they’re only doing minor jobs like drilling into a wall or lifting ceiling tiles.

Failure to provide training can result in prosecution and heavy fines.

4. You’re Responsible for Contractors Too

If you bring contractors onto your site, you’re still responsible for their health and safety. That includes making sure they’re informed about the presence of asbestos and that they’ve completed relevant training before starting work.

Supplying them with an asbestos register and confirming training certificates should be standard practice.

5. Online Training Is Fully Recognised (If Done Right)

Online asbestos awareness training is a fully legitimate way to meet your obligations — provided it’s delivered by an accredited provider. UKASL offers IATP and RoSPA approved courses, which are widely accepted across the UK construction and facilities management sectors.

Certificates are issued instantly, and training can be completed in under two hours — making it easy to roll out across your team or supply chain.

Protect Your Team and Stay Compliant

Asbestos compliance is not just a legal box to tick — it's about protecting lives. UKASL makes it simple for employers to fulfil their responsibilities with fully accredited online training that’s fast, affordable, and easy to manage at scale.

View our asbestos training options to get started.

What Is Category A Asbestos Training and Who Needs It?

If you're working in construction, maintenance, or building management, you’ve likely heard the term “Category A asbestos training”. But what exactly does it mean — and do you really need it?

What Is Category A Asbestos Training?

Category A asbestos training, also known as Asbestos Awareness Training, is the most basic level of asbestos training required under UK law. It is designed for workers who may encounter asbestos in the course of their normal duties but do not intentionally disturb it.

The purpose of this training is to help individuals recognise asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), understand the associated health risks, and know what steps to take to avoid exposure. It does not qualify you to remove or disturb asbestos — that requires Category B or C training.

What Does the Course Cover?

Category A asbestos awareness training typically includes:

• The properties and health effects of asbestos


• The types, uses and likely locations of asbestos in buildings


• How to avoid the risk of exposure


• The procedures to follow in the event of accidental disturbance

The training is usually delivered online and can be completed in under two hours, making it convenient for both individuals and businesses to stay compliant.

Who Needs Category A Asbestos Training?

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 require employers to ensure that any worker who is likely to be exposed to asbestos receives suitable information, instruction and training. This includes:

• Electricians


• Plumbers


• Joiners and carpenters


• Builders and roofers


• Maintenance workers and caretakers


• Painters and decorators


• Gas engineers


• Telecoms and cable installers

If your job might bring you into contact with older materials — especially in buildings constructed before the year 2000 — this training is essential.

Is It a Legal Requirement?

Yes. Under Regulation 10 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations, asbestos awareness training is a legal obligation for anyone who might come into contact with asbestos but does not disturb it. Employers who fail to provide this training can face enforcement action and prosecution.

Get Certified Online Today

UKASL offers fully accredited Category A asbestos awareness training online, approved by both RoSPA and IATP. It’s fast, affordable, and recognised across the UK construction and maintenance industries.

Book your asbestos awareness training here.

RoSPA vs IATP – Which Asbestos Course Should You Choose?

If you're looking for a recognised asbestos awareness course, you've likely come across two common options: RoSPA and IATP. But what's the difference, and does it actually matter which one you choose?

What Are RoSPA and IATP?

RoSPA stands for the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents. It’s a well-known UK charity that promotes safety standards across various industries. A RoSPA-approved asbestos course means that the training has been independently assessed for quality and safety compliance.

IATP stands for the Independent Asbestos Training Providers. This is a membership organisation made up of asbestos training providers who meet the standards set by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Courses listed under the IATP are delivered by providers who are regularly audited for quality.

Key Differences Between RoSPA and IATP Courses

• Approval Body: RoSPA is a safety charity; IATP is an industry network.


• HSE Recognition: Both course types align with HSE guidance and legal standards.


• Employer Acceptance: Most employers and contractors will accept either certificate.


• Delivery: Both RoSPA and IATP courses are typically available online and can be completed in under 2 hours.

Which Should You Choose?

The truth is, both are solid choices if the course is provided by a reputable training organisation. Here’s when you might choose one over the other:

• Choose RoSPA if your employer specifically requests a RoSPA-approved certificate or if you're working in a safety-critical role and want that added layer of recognised authority.


• Choose IATP if you prefer to train with an HSE-linked provider and want confidence that the course meets asbestos-specific standards set by the industry.

If you’re unsure, check with your employer or principal contractor — or go for a provider that offers both. At UKASL, we provide both RoSPA and IATP certified courses, so you’re covered either way.

Need a Recognised Certificate Fast?

All our courses are available online, come with immediate access, and provide an instant downloadable certificate upon successful completion. Whichever route you choose, we make compliance quick and simple.

Explore our asbestos awareness courses here.

Do I Need Asbestos Awareness Training?

If you work in construction, maintenance, or any role that could disturb materials in older buildings, the short answer is: yes, you probably do. Asbestos awareness training isn’t just a formality — it’s a legal requirement under UK health and safety law in many roles.

Who Needs Asbestos Awareness Training?

According to the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, asbestos awareness training is required for anyone who may come into contact with asbestos during their work. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Electricians


• Plumbers


• Carpenters and joiners


• Builders and demolition workers


• Maintenance workers and caretakers


• Gas fitters


• Decorators and painters


• Cable installers

If your role involves drilling, cutting, sanding, or disturbing walls, ceilings, or pipework — especially in buildings built before 2000 — asbestos training is not optional.

Is Asbestos Training a Legal Requirement?

Yes. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requires that employers provide suitable information, instruction, and training to employees who may be exposed to asbestos. Failing to comply can result in serious legal and financial consequences.

The most common type is Category A Asbestos Awareness Training, which is aimed at people whose work could foreseeably expose them to asbestos but who do not intentionally disturb it. This course is often required as part of site induction or compliance checks.

What Are the Benefits of Being Certified?

There’s more to it than ticking a box. Benefits include:

• Protecting your own health and that of others


• Being eligible for more jobs and contracts


• Meeting client or contractor requirements


• Reducing liability for your employer or business

Training usually takes under 2 hours and can be done online with instant certification upon passing. For many professionals, it’s one of the easiest and most important ways to stay compliant and safe.

Not Sure If You Need It?

If you're working in a role where you even might disturb building materials — especially in structures built before the year 2000 — it's safest to assume you need it. When in doubt, err on the side of caution. Asbestos exposure isn’t something to take lightly.

Get Certified Online Today

At UKASL, we provide fully recognised online asbestos awareness training that meets all UK regulatory requirements. Quick, affordable and available 24/7 — start your course today and protect yourself and your team.

Click here to get started.

What Does an On-Site Asbestos Awareness Training Session Involve?

If you're responsible for organising health and safety training in your workplace, you’ve likely considered bringing in an expert to deliver on-site asbestos awareness training. But what actually happens during one of these sessions, and how can you ensure your team gets the most out of it?

Why Choose On-Site Asbestos Training?

While online asbestos awareness courses offer convenience and flexibility, on-site group training has several distinct advantages—especially for larger teams or workplaces with specific risks and responsibilities.

On-site training allows for personalised, face-to-face delivery tailored to your premises and work activities. It’s an efficient, team-based solution that ensures everyone receives consistent, compliant asbestos awareness education.

What Happens During a Typical Session?

1. The Arrival and Setup

A UKASL-qualified instructor will arrive at your site at the agreed time—whether that’s early morning, midday, or after hours. They’ll bring all necessary materials, including presentation equipment if needed, and will require only a quiet space with seating for attendees.

2. Course Introduction

The session begins with a brief overview of asbestos: what it is, why it was used, and the dangers associated with disturbing asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). The trainer will introduce the legal context, including the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and employers’ responsibilities.

3. Main Learning Content

Next, the instructor walks participants through core asbestos awareness topics:

• Types and properties of asbestos


• Common uses and locations of ACMs in UK buildings


• Health risks associated with asbestos exposure


• Emergency procedures in the event of asbestos disturbance


• Personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe working practices

Sessions are interactive and may include real-life case studies, visual aids, and opportunities for questions.

4. Assessment and Certification

To ensure the training is understood and retained, attendees complete a short assessment—usually multiple choice. Those who pass receive UKATA-approved certificates (or alternative certification upon request), valid across the UK.

5. Flexibility and Group Benefits

UKASL offers flexibility to suit your operation. We can deliver up to two sessions in one day to accommodate multiple shifts or larger teams—without disrupting your workflow. On-site training also reduces costs by removing travel and accommodation requirements for your team.

Who Should Attend?

This training is essential for anyone who might disturb ACMs during the course of their work. Typical attendees include:

• Maintenance staff


• Joiners, plumbers, electricians


• Builders and construction crews


• Site supervisors and managers


• Facilities teams and caretakers

How Long Does It Take?

Sessions typically last between 90 minutes and two hours, depending on the number of participants and the pace of discussion. Because of the structured delivery, on-site training is one of the most time-efficient ways to train your team to a high standard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a separate session for each location?

Not necessarily. If you have multiple nearby sites, we can group them into one or deliver sessions across locations as needed. Speak to our team to arrange the best option.

Can you deliver training on weekends?

Yes! UKASL offers weekend sessions and can work around your schedule to minimise business disruption.

How many people can attend one session?

Our fixed-rate sessions are designed for groups of up to 20. For larger teams, we can deliver multiple sessions in one day at no extra charge.

Book Your On-Site Asbestos Awareness Training

Ready to organise team training that’s clear, compliant, and convenient? At UKASL, our on-site asbestos awareness sessions are led by industry experts and tailored to meet your operational needs.

Contact us today to get a quote or book a training date. We’ll help your team stay informed, protected, and legally compliant.

Asbestos Training for Self-Employed Contractors: What Are Your Legal Duties?

Whether you're an independent tradesperson, a sole trader, or a freelancer taking on your own jobs, you may be wondering: “Do I really need asbestos training?” The short answer is yes.

Asbestos is still present in many UK homes and commercial buildings. If your work involves drilling, cutting, or refurbishing properties built before the year 2000, there’s a real risk of disturbing asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). And that puts both your health and your legal standing on the line.

Your Legal Responsibilities Under UK Law

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 apply to all workers—including the self-employed—who may disturb asbestos during the course of their work. You are legally required to ensure you have the proper training, even if you don’t have a boss, team, or employees.

As stated in Regulation 10, “Every employer shall ensure that any employee is given adequate information, instruction and training.” This includes self-employed persons as defined in Regulation 3.

What Kind of Training Do You Need?

Asbestos Awareness Training

This is the minimum legal requirement for most self-employed contractors. Asbestos awareness training is essential if your job could disturb the fabric of a building—common in roles such as:

• Electricians


• Plumbers


• Carpenters


• Gas/heating engineers


• Joiners


• Painters & decorators


• Roofers and tilers


• Telecom and data cabling installers

Non-Licensed Asbestos Training

If you plan to carry out minor asbestos removal or repair work, such as removing floor tiles or asbestos cement sheets, you’ll also need training in non-licensed work with asbestos. UKASL offers both categories of training online and onsite.

Why Asbestos Training Is Critical for the Self-Employed

Aside from the legal requirements, completing asbestos awareness training gives you confidence to identify risks, make informed decisions, and protect both yourself and others on-site. It can also help you:

• Win contracts with larger firms who require proof of training


• Demonstrate competence to clients and main contractors


• Comply with CDM (Construction Design & Management) regulations


• Avoid costly mistakes or legal liability

How UKASL Supports Self-Employed Contractors

At UKASL, we understand the challenges of being self-employed. That’s why we offer:

• Instant certification upon passing our online course


• UKATA-approved training to ensure full legal compliance


• Flexible learning – complete your course anytime, anywhere


• Refresher options to keep your training valid and recognised

Our online asbestos awareness training takes around 60–90 minutes to complete and is compatible with mobile, tablet, and desktop devices.

FAQs

Do self-employed workers need asbestos training?

Yes. If you may disturb asbestos during your work, training is a legal requirement—even if you’re self-employed.

Is a certificate required?

While the law does not specifically require a certificate, you must be able to demonstrate that you’ve received proper training. UKASL provides an instant downloadable certificate valid across the UK.

How often do I need to renew my asbestos training?

The HSE recommends refresher training as needed—typically every 12 months or when work roles or risks change. UKASL offers quick refresher options online.

Get Certified with UKASL Today

Whether you’re a sole trader or part of a small team, asbestos awareness is your responsibility. Don’t leave your health—or your compliance—to chance.

Enrol in our online asbestos training now and get certified in under two hours.

How to Stay Compliant with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 in 2025

More than a decade after they came into force, the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 remain the legal backbone of asbestos management across the UK. As we move through 2025, compliance is still non-negotiable—and failure to meet your responsibilities can result in heavy fines, enforcement notices, and serious health risks for workers.

In this guide, UKASL breaks down what the regulations mean for you in 2025, who they apply to, and how our accredited asbestos training keeps you compliant and audit-ready.

What Are the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012?

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012) set out the legal duties for managing asbestos in all non-domestic premises and work environments. They consolidate previous asbestos laws and align UK legislation with the European Union Directive 2009/148/EC on the protection of workers from asbestos exposure.

Key Legal Duties Under CAR 2012

• Identify the presence and location of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs)


• Assess the condition and risk of identified ACMs


• Prepare and implement a written asbestos management plan


• Ensure that anyone liable to disturb asbestos is trained


• Review and monitor the management plan regularly

Who Do the Regulations Apply to in 2025?

The asbestos regulations apply to a wide range of individuals and organisations, including:

• Employers: Must assess risks and train staff who may be exposed


• Duty Holders: Responsible for managing asbestos in non-domestic premises


• Contractors: Required to check for ACMs and follow safe working practices


• Schools, hospitals, and commercial landlords: Must comply with regulations across communal areas and workspaces

How Can You Stay Compliant?

1. Conduct a Survey and Keep an Asbestos Register

Identify all ACMs in the building using a management or refurbishment survey. Maintain an accurate asbestos register and ensure it's accessible to anyone working on-site.

2. Create an Asbestos Management Plan

This must outline how you intend to manage the risk, including routine inspections, responsibilities, and emergency procedures.

3. Train Your Staff

Training is a cornerstone of compliance. As per Regulation 10, anyone who may come into contact with asbestos in their work must receive adequate information, instruction, and training. This includes builders, maintenance teams, electricians, and site supervisors.

UKASL provides UKATA-approved asbestos awareness training and refresher courses to meet these legal requirements.

4. Update Your Training Regularly

Although annual training is not a strict legal requirement, the HSE recommends refresher training “as necessary”. This might be annually, after a role change, or following a safety incident. UKASL's refresher training options ensure your records remain up to date and inspection-ready.

How UKASL Supports Your Legal Compliance

At UKASL, we make it easy for employers and duty holders to fulfil their responsibilities under CAR 2012. Our training options include:

• Online asbestos awareness training – available 24/7, fully compliant


• Onsite asbestos training – tailored to your team and premises


• Refresher training and certificates – valid and recognised across the UK


• Support and advice – helping you navigate complex compliance needs

FAQs

What are the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012?

They are the legal framework for managing asbestos in the UK. They place a duty on employers and duty holders to identify and manage asbestos risks in non-domestic buildings.

Is asbestos training required by law?

Yes. Regulation 10 of the CAR 2012 requires all staff who may disturb asbestos to receive asbestos awareness training.

How often do I need to update my asbestos training?

Refresher training is recommended at least annually or when work practices change. UKASL offers fast and affordable options to keep your certificates current.

Stay Ahead of Compliance in 2025

Asbestos regulations may not have changed, but enforcement is getting stricter, and expectations are rising. Stay compliant, stay safe, and stay informed with UKASL.

Contact us today to schedule your training or download our free asbestos compliance checklist.