Do I Need Asbestos Awareness Training? | UKASL
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.