Asbestos was once a go-to material in construction. Fire-resistant, strong and cheap—builders loved it. But there’s a dark side. When disturbed, asbestos releases tiny fibres. Breathe them in and they can cause serious health issues.
Asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma are the big threats. These diseases take years to develop, making early exposure even more dangerous. The worst part? Asbestos is still lurking in older buildings across the UK. Any construction work on these buildings poses a risk.
So, how can workers stay safe? Awareness, training and strict safety measures are key. Let’s break it down.
Identifying Asbestos Risk in Construction Sites
Types of Asbestos Materials
Asbestos hides in plain sight. It was widely used in homes, offices and industrial sites before its ban. Some common asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) include:
- Insulation – Found around pipes, boilers and walls.
- Roofing and Siding – Corrugated sheets and tiles often contain asbestos.
- Ceiling Tiles – Many older drop ceilings have asbestos fibres.
- Flooring – Old vinyl tiles and adhesives may have asbestos.
- Textured Coatings – Think Artex ceilings—popular in the 70s and 80s.
- Cement Products – Gutters, downpipes and cladding.
Signs of Asbestos
Spotting asbestos isn’t easy. It doesn’t have a smell and it looks like regular building materials. However, there are some telltale signs:
- Age of the Building – If built before 2000, it may contain asbestos.
- Crumbly, Worn-out Materials – Older insulation or damaged ceiling tiles could be suspicious.
- White, Blue or Brown Fibres – The three asbestos types—chrysotile (white), amosite (brown) and crocidolite (blue).
Guesswork isn’t enough. UKATA training on asbestos awareness teaches workers to minimise the risk of exposure. Proper training can be the difference between safety and exposure.
Legal Requirements for Handling Asbestos
UK Regulations on Asbestos
The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 lays down the law. It applies to all workplaces, ensuring asbestos is managed properly. Key points include:
- Duty to Manage – Building owners must identify and control asbestos risks.
- Asbestos Surveys – Required before refurbishments or demolitions.
- Licensing – High-risk work needs a licence.
- Training – Any worker likely to disturb asbestos must be trained.
Ignoring these laws can lead to heavy fines—or worse, serious health risks.
Responsibilities of Employers
Employers have a legal duty to protect workers from asbestos exposure. This includes:
- Carrying Out Risk Assessments – Identify potential exposure.
- Providing Training – Ensure workers know how to handle asbestos.
- Supplying Protective Gear – PPE must meet asbestos safety standards.
- Ensuring Safe Work Practices – Follow control measures to prevent fibre release.
A careless approach puts lives at risk. Proper planning and compliance are non-negotiable.
Pre-Construction Asbestos Assessment
Conducting Asbestos Surveys
Before any work begins, a survey is a must. It identifies asbestos and assesses its condition. There are two main types:
- Management Survey – For buildings in use. Helps maintain safety.
- Refurbishment/Demolition Survey – Required before major work. Finds hidden asbestos.
Skipping this step is a disaster waiting to happen.
Asbestos Register
An asbestos register is a legal requirement for buildings with asbestos. It records:
- Where asbestos is located.
- Its condition.
- Who is responsible for managing it.
A well-maintained register keeps workers informed and reduces risks.
Protective Measures for Workers
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
The right PPE is crucial when dealing with asbestos. Standard gear includes:
- Disposable Coveralls – Type 5 (sealed at cuffs and ankles).
- Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) – P3-rated masks to filter fibres.
- Gloves and Footwear – Non-laced boots and single-use gloves.
Wearing PPE properly makes all the difference. Contaminated gear can spread asbestos beyond the worksite.
Decontamination Procedures
After handling asbestos, decontamination is essential. Steps include:
- Remove PPE Carefully – Avoid shaking fibres loose.
- Wipe Down Tools and Equipment – Use damp cloths or HEPA vacuums.
- Shower Before Leaving – No exceptions.
- Dispose of PPE Correctly – Double-bag and label as hazardous waste.
No shortcuts. Even a tiny amount of asbestos dust can be deadly.
Training and Awareness
Training Requirements
Anyone working near asbestos needs proper training. UK regulations require:
- Awareness Training – Such as IATP asbestos awareness training for workers who may come across asbestos.
- Non-Licensed Work Training – For those handling low-risk asbestos.
- Licensed Work Training – For high-risk removal jobs.
Training saves lives. It’s that simple.
Ongoing Awareness and Education
Asbestos risks don’t go away. Workers should stay updated with:
- Refresher Courses – Regulations and best practices change.
- Toolbox Talks – Regular discussions on asbestos safety.
- On-Site Signage – Clear warnings in asbestos zones.
A well-informed workforce is a safer workforce.
Emergency Procedures for Accidental Exposure
Steps to Take After Exposure
Accidents happen. If someone is exposed to asbestos, quick action is needed:
- Stop Work Immediately – Prevent further contamination.
- Inform a Supervisor – Report the incident.
- Leave the Area – Minimise exposure.
- Change Clothes and Shower – Remove all traces of asbestos.
- Seal Off the Area – Prevent others from entering.
Reporting and Medical Surveillance
Exposure must be recorded and reported. Workers should:
- Log the Incident – Keep detailed records.
- Undergo Medical Checks – Regular lung function tests can detect early signs of illness.
- Monitor Long-Term Health – Asbestos-related diseases take years to develop.
Employers should support affected workers with medical surveillance and compensation if needed.
The Takeaway
Asbestos is a hidden killer in the construction industry. It’s still present in many buildings, posing serious health risks. But with the right precautions, exposure can be avoided.
- Know where asbestos is found – Awareness is the first line of defence.
- Follow legal requirements – Compliance isn’t optional.
- Use PPE and decontamination procedures – Protect workers and prevent contamination.
- Stay trained and informed – Regular education keeps workers safe.
- Have emergency plans in place – Accidents need swift action.
Every construction site must prioritise asbestos safety. A careless approach isn’t just illegal—it’s deadly.
