Following HSE’s consultation on proposed changes to the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 we have published our response.
Our response confirms plans to:
- introduce a legal requirement to strengthen the independence and impartiality of analysts carrying out the four-stage clearance process following licensed asbestos removal work
- continue promoting the use of accredited asbestos survey organisations and develop interventions to help dutyholders understand the critical role a quality survey plays in managing asbestos risk safely
- develop clearer guidance on Notifiable Non-Licensed Work (NNLW) to support compliance
To help dutyholders, contractors and analysts understand the changes and what they mean in practice, we will be updating guidance, including our publications:
In addition, we will be creating new web guidance to help dutyholders appoint third-party service providers with confidence.
These will reflect the new requirements and expectations for the 4-stage clearance process.
Businesses will have 12 months to prepare before the regulatory change comes into force.
Find out more by reading our full press release: HSE takes action to strengthen asbestos safety standards following consultation.
Supporting the next generation of workers.
In his conference speech, the Prime Minister set out plans to give technical education and apprenticeships equal standing with traditional academic routes.
As the UK invests in the next generation of skilled tradespeople, it is equally important that apprentices begin their careers with a strong understanding of workplace health risks, including asbestos.
Most tradespeople are likely to work in a building containing asbestos at some point during their career. Although asbestos was banned in 1999, it remains in millions of UK premises built or refurbished before 2000.
For apprentices and those early in their careers, understanding asbestos risks is an essential part of working safely and professionally. Workers can encounter asbestos during routine tasks such as drilling, installing cables, replacing boilers, fitting kitchens, or carrying out maintenance work.
Employers, colleges, training providers and mentors all have a role in ensuring new entrants understand asbestos risks and know how to work safely.
HSE's free resources can help support apprentices and early career workers, including:
If you work with apprentices, trainees or those new to the industry, please share these resources across your networks and incorporate them into inductions and training programmes where appropriate.
Building good asbestos awareness from the start of a career can help prevent exposure and protect workers throughout their working lives.
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