Asbestos is still a silent killer in homes and workplaces across the UK. Many people believe this danger is a problem of the past, but it remains a real and present danger. That’s why the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has launched the "Asbestos and You" Work Right campaign to raise awareness and provide essential information to protect tradespeople and workers.
What Is the "Asbestos and You" Campaign?
The "Asbestos and You" campaign is designed to inform and educate those most at risk from exposure—tradespeople, construction workers, licensed contractors, and anyone working in buildings built before the year 2000 about safe asbestos work practices. Through this campaign, the HSE aims to provide adequate information to workers about the dangers associated with ACMs (asbestos-containing materials).
- Raise awareness about the continued presence of ACMs in millions of buildings.
- Provide practical advice on how to identify and handle ACMs safely.
- Support tradespeople with resources, training recommendations, and step-by-step guidance.
Visit the Asbestos and You campaign website to access further information, essential tools, and resources.
Asbestos Essentials: Understanding the Basics
ACMs were banned in the UK years ago, but it can still be found in many buildings built before 2000. This is a concern, especially in workplaces where renovations, repairs, or tearing down structures might happen.
The UK established The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 to set out the legal requirements when dealing with any type of asbestos. The regulations apply to all buildings and set out the obligations of employers, building owners, and those carrying out any type of work on a building.
It's important to know that ACMs that are not disturbed usually don't create much risk. However, if these materials are damaged or moved, high levels of asbestos fibres can get into the air. Therefore, proper disposal of asbestos waste is critical, as inhaling these fibres can cause serious health problems.
What is Asbestos and Why is it Hazardous?
Asbestos is a term for a group of natural minerals that have strong, heat-resistant, and insulating qualities. These features make it useful, but they also pose serious risks to human health. When ACMs get damaged or disturbed, tiny fibres can become airborne.
If people breathe in these fibres for a long time, the duration of exposure can lead to serious lung problems. This includes asbestosis, mesothelioma (a cancer that affects the lining of the lungs), and cancer of the lung.
Historical Use of Asbestos in the UK
Asbestos was used a lot in construction materials in the UK until the late 1900s because of its good qualities. This historical use means there is now a presence of asbestos in many buildings like homes, schools, hospitals, and offices.
Some common ACMs found in these buildings are insulation, roofing felt, floor tiles, textured coatings, and cement products. The strong and long-lasting properties of asbestos make it hard to completely remove it from the old structures.
HSE: Why Is This Campaign Important?
Despite the UK’s ban in 1999, ACMs remain in homes, public buildings, and workplaces across the country. Undamaged asbestos materials can be harmless when undisturbed, but even small tasks like drilling or sanding can release tiny fibres into the air. The dangers of asbestos occur when these fibres are inhaled.
The release of asbestos can lead to life-threatening illnesses, including:
- Mesothelioma
- Asbestosis
- Lung cancer
Every year, around 5,000 people in the UK die from asbestos-related diseases, making it one of the leading occupational health risks.
Who Is Most at Risk?
The campaign targets anyone who might disturb asbestos during their work activities, including:
- Builders and contractors.
- Plumbers and electricians.
- Carpenters and decorators.
- Property renovators and maintenance workers.
If you work in a building constructed or refurbished before 2000, you’re likely to encounter ACMs at some point in your career.
How the Campaign Helps You Stay Safe
The "Asbestos and You" campaign provides practical guidance and safety updates to help tradespeople recognise and safely manage the risks. Key resources include:
- Step-by-step guidance: Learn how to assess the risk of exposure and act appropriately.
- Training recommendations: Understand the types of work that require non-licensed or licensed training.
- Information about ACMs: Get detailed information about where asbestos might be hiding in your workplace.
Find out more on the HSE Asbestos and You website.
Protect Yourself and Others
The "Asbestos and You" campaign emphasises one key takeaway: There is no safe level of asbestos exposure. Whether you’re working on a residential property or an industrial site, here’s what you can do to implement control measures and stay safe:
- Check the asbestos register: Always review the building’s asbestos register before starting a plan of work.
- Know where ACMs hide: Familiarise yourself with common ACMs, such as pipe lagging, cement, or textured coatings.
- Stop work if in doubt: If you suspect an ACM, stop immediately and inform your employer or the building owner. Asbestos removal should only be attempted by those who have taken the proper asbestos training.
Get Involved in the Asbestos Awareness HSE Campaign
Help spread the word and improve people's knowledge of asbestos. Share the campaign with your colleagues, employees, and networks.
For more information and resources, visit the Asbestos and You campaign website.
Final Thoughts
The "Asbestos and You" campaign is more than an awareness effort—it’s a call to action to prevent ACM-related deaths. Stay informed and take the proper precautions. You can protect yourself and those around you from this hidden danger.
If you or your team require asbestos awareness training, check out the online course below:
