Asbestos can be dangerous if not handled properly. To keep everyone safe, it’s important that the right people have the right training. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Asbestos Removal Training?
Asbestos removal training is a course that teaches people how to safely work with asbestos materials. The goal is to make sure workers understand how to carry out jobs without putting their own health or anyone else’s at risk.
The training includes information about what asbestos is, why it is harmful, and how to handle it safely. It also teaches proper use of personal protective equipment, safe work methods, and how to clean up after carrying out asbestos work.
People who complete the course gain skills to deal with asbestos safely and reduce the chance of making mistakes that could lead to exposure. This type of training is important for anyone who may need to remove or work near asbestos during their job.
Why Is Training Important?
Asbestos is harmful because its tiny fibres can be breathed in without noticing. Over time, this can lead to serious health problems such as lung cancer, asbestosis, or mesothelioma. These diseases often do not show signs until many years later.
Training helps protect both workers and the public by teaching safe working practices. It also helps employers follow health and safety laws, which require them to keep their employees safe.
By learning how to spot asbestos and handle it properly, workers can avoid making errors that may harm them or others. Without training, people may not realise the risks or how to deal with asbestos correctly.
Workers Who May Be at Risk
Many jobs carry a risk of asbestos exposure, especially in older buildings. Builders, electricians, plumbers, joiners, and roofers are some of the most common trades affected.
Other workers, like decorators, heating engineers, caretakers, or shopfitters, might also come into contact with asbestos materials. Even office staff working in buildings with damaged insulation could be at risk.
If there is any chance that someone’s work might disturb asbestos, they need to be properly trained. Employers have a legal duty to make sure workers are trained and safe before they begin any work that might involve asbestos.
Difference Between Awareness and Removal Training
There are different types of asbestos training, depending on the job. Asbestos awareness training is for people who do not directly work with asbestos but might come across it. This course explains what asbestos looks like, where it can be found, and how to avoid disturbing it.
Removal training is needed for people who plan to carry out work involving asbestos materials. This includes removing old floor tiles, pipe insulation, ceiling panels or other contaminated items.
Removal courses include both theory and practical training. Workers learn how to use personal protective equipment, set up safe work areas, and follow proper decontamination steps. Knowing the difference between these courses helps employers choose the right one for their team.
When Is Licensed Training Required?
Not all asbestos work needs a licence, but some jobs do. Licensed asbestos work includes tasks where the risk of fibre release is high. For example, removing sprayed coatings or insulation boards.
This kind of work must be done by trained workers under strict rules. A licensed course is longer and more detailed, including health and safety planning, emergency steps, and full use of safety gear.
For lower-risk jobs, like drilling into certain materials or removing asbestos cement, non-licensed training may be enough. Even if a task seems simple, it is important to check the rules and get the right training. This helps avoid mistakes that could lead to serious health problems later on.
Looking for asbestos removal training in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire? Whether you need licensed, non-licensed or refresher training, follow the link below to learn more about our fully accredited training options: