Asbestos remains a significant health threat worldwide, causing approximately 237,000 deaths each year, 5,000 annually in the UK. With the aim of reducing its risk, the country has gradually implemented strict regulations.
With phased bans beginning in 1985 and culminating in a total ban in 1999, the core strategy is outlined in the Control of Asbestos Regulations (2006), which categorizes asbestos work into three categories:
- non-licensed
- notifiable non-licensed
- licensed work
Each category mandates specific safety measures and training based on the exposure risk. Additionally, property owners of non-domestic premises are required to manage asbestos to protect workers and visitors.
Global collaboration
Bearing that in mind, the country focuses on promoting educational programs through the UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA), where an international syllabus for asbestos awareness training has been developed. Visit their website here.
Global collaboration in education and awareness is crucial to reducing the risks associated with asbestos exposure and that is the reason why it is specially designed to transcend international boundaries. Don’t miss the EDI Special Publication 2024, our publication with all the details about this topic.