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Asbestos remains one of the most serious long-term health risks on UK construction sites. Even though asbestos use was banned in 1999, many older buildings still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Cutting, drilling or refurbishing can disturb these materials and release dangerous fibres. Asbestos awareness training ensures workers and supervisors know how to identify asbestos and prevent exposure, protecting both health and legal compliance.
Target Zero delivers fully recognised asbestos awareness training designed to meet UK regulations and industry best practice.
What is asbestos awareness training?
Asbestos awareness training is a concise health and safety course that teaches workers how to:
- Identify materials likely to contain asbestos
- Understand the health effects of asbestos exposure
- Follow correct emergency procedures if asbestos is found
- Comply with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012
The course provides knowledge and awareness, not a licence to remove asbestos, which requires specialist training.
Why asbestos awareness remains essential
Many properties built or refurbished before 2000 still have asbestos in insulation, ceiling tiles, pipe lagging, floor coverings and roofing. When these materials are damaged or disturbed, they can release invisible fibres that cause:
- Mesothelioma (a cancer of the lung lining)
- Asbestosis (scarring of the lungs)
- Lung cancer and other respiratory illnesses
Because asbestos-related diseases can take decades to develop, prevention is the only reliable protection.
Who needs asbestos awareness training?
The law requires asbestos awareness training for anyone who may come across asbestos during their work. This includes:
- Construction workers and site managers
- Electricians, plumbers and heating engineers
- Painters, decorators and plasterers
- Joiners, shopfitters and flooring installers
- Building maintenance and caretaking staff
Employers are legally responsible for ensuring staff complete this training before starting work in potentially affected areas.
Course content and learning outcomes
A high-quality asbestos awareness course typically covers:
Understanding asbestos
Types of asbestos (chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite), where it was used and how it affects health.
Identifying asbestos-containing materials
Spotting potential ACMs in older buildings and recognising risks during maintenance or refurbishment.
Emergency actions
Steps to take if asbestos is accidentally disturbed, including evacuation and reporting procedures.
Legal duties
How the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 apply to everyday construction and maintenance work.
Flexible training delivery
Target Zero offers asbestos awareness training in two convenient formats:
Online training
- Complete the course anywhere with an internet connection
- Interactive modules with a short online assessment
- Instant downloadable certificate on successful completion
Classroom training
- Face-to-face delivery by experienced health and safety trainers
- Practical examples and group discussions
- Ideal for team bookings and large projects
Both options issue the same recognised certificate, valid across the UK.
Duration and renewal
- Course length: approximately two hours online or half a day in a classroom
- Certificate validity: 12 months (annual refresher recommended)
Refreshing knowledge yearly keeps teams compliant and prepared for changing guidance.
Staying compliant with UK asbestos law
The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 require employers to:
- Provide adequate asbestos training and information
- Keep up-to-date asbestos surveys and management plans
- Put clear emergency procedures in place
Failing to meet these obligations can lead to significant fines, legal action and serious health consequences. For detailed legal guidance, see the Health and Safety Executive asbestos pages.
Why choose Target Zero
- Recognised asbestos awareness training trusted across the UK
- Flexible online or classroom formats
- Instant certification to demonstrate compliance
- Competitive pricing and group booking discounts
- Expert trainers with real construction and safety experience
Frequently asked questions
How long does asbestos awareness training take?
Around two hours online or half a day in person.
How often should training be renewed?
Best practice is every year to stay up to date and compliant.
Does this course allow me to remove asbestos?
No. Specialised removal training is required for any work that directly disturbs asbestos.
Is the certificate recognised across the UK?
Yes. It is accepted by employers, main contractors and industry bodies nationwide.
Final call to action
Protect your workforce, meet your legal obligations and keep every site safe. Asbestos awareness training from Target Zero is quick, affordable and fully recognised.
Equip yourself and your team with the knowledge to avoid exposure and maintain a safe working environment.
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