The Asbestos Awareness course caters to all workers, including Managers, supervisors, and operatives stationed on-site, who may encounter Asbestos in their workplace. This comprehensive training covers the hazards associated with asbestos exposure and the locations where Asbestos Containing Materials (ACM) are commonly found, aligning with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
Workforce Skills Support holds accreditation as an approved provider of IATP Asbestos training for Cat A training.
WHY IS ASBESTOS AWARENESS TRAINING IMPORTANT?
According to legal requirements, employers must ensure that their employees receive appropriate information, instruction, and training if there’s a likelihood they’ll encounter asbestos during their work. This training is essential for ensuring the safety and confidence of all employees working near asbestos, thereby minimising the risk of harm to themselves and others.
Asbestos refers to a group of six naturally occurring silicate minerals, historically mined and extensively used in construction and manufacturing due to their diverse properties.
Tragically, every week sees 20 tradesmen succumb to asbestos-related illnesses. If you work on a building constructed or refurbished before 2000, you might have been exposed to asbestos unknowingly.
WHAT TYPES OF ASBESTOS ARE COMMONLY FOUND?
The three primary types of asbestos are crocidolite, amosite, and chrysotile, although other forms like fibrous actinolite, fibrous anthophyllite, and fibrous tremolite can also be present in buildings.
Crocidolite, amosite, and chrysotile are respectively known as blue, brown, and white asbestos, although colour isn’t always indicative of their identification.
While chrysotile belongs to the serpentine group (resembling fine threads of cotton), the other five types belong to the amphibole group (akin to fine needles).
DOES THIS COURSE PROVIDE FULL COMPETENCY?
In short, no. This course offers fundamental knowledge to mitigate risks, but full competency is attained over time through further training, instructions, and assessments. The course includes a timed, invigilated, closed-book written examination to ensure learners achieve the required understanding. Although there’s no legal mandate for a full formal awareness refresher every 12 months, periodic refreshers are recommended to maintain asbestos awareness.
WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM ASBESTOS AWARENESS TRAINING?
This course is designed to equip anyone whose work may potentially expose them to asbestos with adequate knowledge to prevent risks to themselves and others, adhering to the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
Affected trades include but are not limited to:
Construction Workers
Plasterers
Shop Fitters
Roofers
Gas Fitters
Demolition Workers
Electricians
And various others.