UKATA Asbestos Awareness

Asbestos awareness training is required to be given to employees whose work could foreseeably expose them to asbestos. In particular, it should be given to all demolition workers and those workers in the refurbishment, maintenance and allied trades where it is foreseeable that their work will disturb the fabric of the building because ACMs may become exposed during their work.

Exemption from this requirement would apply only where the employer can demonstrate that work will only be carried out in or on buildings free of ACMs.

Course Objective:

To provide an awareness and develop the knowledge amongst employees as regards the hazards and risks posed by asbestos containing materials (ACMs). The course further gives an overview of the legislative measures in place to permit employees to safeguard themselves and others affected by work activities.

Who should attend?

Supervisors and trades personnel, including trainees such as but not limited to: demolition workers, construction workers, general maintenance staff, electricians, plumbers, gas fitters, painters and decorators, joiners, plasterers, roofers, heating and ventilation engineers, telecommunication engineers, fire and burglar alarm installers, computer installers, architects, building surveyors, shopfitters and other such professionals.

Architects, building surveyors and other such professionals may require a more developed course which includes the core syllabus in this course, however with an additional module which includes the interaction between the various duties under the Construction Design and Management Regulations and those within CAR.

Learning Objectives:

On successful completion of this course, delegates should be able to:

• Have an increased awareness of the nature and properties of asbestos and its effects on health, including the increased risk of lung cancer for asbestos workers who smoke;
•  Be familiar with the types, uses and likely occurrences of asbestos in buildings and where appropriate items
• of plant;

Know how to avoid the risks from asbestos by understanding;

• Where to obtain information on asbestos in premises prior to commencing work;

• What to do if suspicious materials are found

• How to use appropriate workplace precautions, including the risk assessment process, or seek advice on workplace precautions, in respect of the risks of asbestos

• Undertake work activities in a safe manner and without risk to themselves or others.

• Have an awareness of the key aspects of the asbestos regulations and how they fit into the broader context of health and safety legislation.