HSE launch a new asbestos awareness campaign

Despite the use of asbestos being prohibited since 2000, the material is likely to remain in any building constructed or renovated prior to this period.  

Currently, 5000 people a year die from past exposure to asbestos, and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) aim to reduce this figure to zero in years to come. The HSE fear young people, and particularly millennials and gen Z workers, may overlook this risk and have launched a campaign to raise awareness of asbestos. 

The risk from asbestos is high for those working in the landscape industry, due to the material historically being used for products including:

• gutters and downpipes 
• soffits
• cement panels 
• roofing material 

The HSE provides the following guidance for all workers. 

Before you get started:

● Consider doing some basic asbestos awareness training.
● Ask if a survey has been done or if a plan or an asbestos
register is available.
● Check if the building was built or refurbished before the
year 2000.
● If possible, plan the job to avoid disturbing any asbestos.

On the job:
● Be aware that hidden asbestos could still be found even if a
survey has been done.
● Be aware of what to watch for and where it hides
● If you suspect asbestos, assume it is until proven otherwise.
● If you’re not trained to work with asbestos and/or you are not
prepared - STOP WORK.

The HSE has developed a suite of guidance for all workers regardless of whether they are site or office-based; use the links in the further reading section of this document to download them.

Further reading

HSE Asbestos and You: Quick guide for trades 
HSE guide: Introduction to asbestos essentials