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There are over 5,000 asbestos-related deaths each year in the UK, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Despite being banned, asbestos remains one of the most significant workplace health risks—and most exposures are preventable. As Asbestos Awareness Week comes to a close, the key message is clear: recognition and prevention save lives.

Why prevention is critical

Asbestos is dangerous when disturbed. Once fibres are released into the air and inhaled, they can cause irreversible lung damage. Did you know? Asbestos fibres can be 700 times smaller, or even thinner, than a human hair— completely invisible to the naked eye, and impossible to detect without testing.

Diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma often take decades to develop, meaning many people are unaware they’ve been exposed until it’s too late. Even minimal exposure can have serious long-term consequences. The only safe approach is to avoid exposure altogether.

Where asbestos may be found

Any building constructed before 2000 may contain asbestos. It is commonly found in:

• Roofing sheets
• Pipe lagging and insulation
• Floor tiles and adhesives
• Textured coatings (walls and ceilings)
• Asbestos Insulation Boards (AIB)

If you’re unsure, stop work immediately and arrange for an assessment. Never assume a material is safe; many asbestos-containing materials look harmless.

Types of asbestos

There are three main types:

• Chrysotile (white): Common in roofing, tiles, and coatings
• Amosite (brown): Often found in insulation boards
• Crocidolite (blue): Typically used in sprayed coatings and lagging

All types are hazardous, and identification should only be carried out by trained professionals.

Essential precautions

Taking the right precautions can prevent exposure:

• Do not disturb suspected asbestos (cutting, drilling, sanding releases fibres)
• Never attempt removal yourself unless trained, competent, and licensed where required
• Always carry out an asbestos survey before refurbishment or demolition
• Stop work immediately if unexpected materials are discovered
• Use licensed contractors for high-risk materials such as AIB, lagging, and sprayed coatings

Safe disposal

Asbestos must be handled and disposed of correctly:

• Materials must be securely wrapped and labelled
• Disposal is only permitted at authorised facilities
• Local council requirements must be followed

Where possible, leave removal and disposal to specialists.

Training and awareness

Training is essential for preventing accidental exposure:

• Category A (Awareness): For those who may encounter asbestos
• Category B (Non-licensed work): For lower-risk work involving asbestos. e.g. minor disturbance of Artex, small amounts of asbestos cement sheeting. 
• Category C (Licensed work): For high-risk removal activities. e.g. sprayed coatings, pipe lagging, large-scale insulating board removal.

Awareness training alone does not qualify anyone to remove asbestos.

Creating a safer workplace

Preventing asbestos exposure requires ongoing awareness:

• Clearly communicate asbestos risks on-site
• Educate workers on how to recognise potential materials
• Carry out regular risk assessments
• Monitor the health of workers exposed to airborne contaminants

When it comes to asbestos, the safest decision is often to stop and reassess. HazardCo’s Advisory Team can help with any asbestos questions or other health and safety matters. Get in touch.