If you work in construction, demolition, refurbishment, maintenance, facilities management, or property services, understanding the different types of asbestos training is essential. From online asbestos training through to non licensed asbestos training and asbestos training for managers, there are several levels and categories available depending on your role and responsibilities.
Discover our UKATA Asbestos Courses here
Why Is Asbestos Training Important?
According to the Health and Safety Executive, asbestos exposure is responsible for thousands of deaths each year in the UK. Disturbing asbestos containing materials can release dangerous fibres into the air which can cause serious illnesses including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 require employers to provide appropriate asbestos training to employees who may encounter asbestos during their work.
You can view official HSE asbestos guidance here:
https://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/
There are generally three recognised categories of asbestos training in the UK:
- Category A Asbestos Training
- Category B Asbestos Training
- Category C Asbestos Training
These different asbestos training categories are designed for different job roles and levels of asbestos exposure risk.
Category A Asbestos Training
Category A asbestos training is also known as asbestos awareness training. This is the most common form of online asbestos training and is designed for workers who may encounter asbestos but will not intentionally work on it.
This training helps workers:
- Identify asbestos containing materials
- Understand where asbestos may be found
- Recognise the dangers of asbestos exposure
- Avoid disturbing asbestos accidentally
- Understand emergency procedures
Category A asbestos training is suitable for:
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- Decorators
- Joiners
- Maintenance workers
- Construction labourers
- Supervisors and managers
Because it does not involve practical asbestos removal work, Category A asbestos training can often be completed fully online.
Category B Asbestos Training
Category B asbestos training is commonly referred to as non licensed asbestos training. This level is designed for workers who intentionally work on asbestos containing materials that do not require a licensed contractor.
Examples of non licensed asbestos work may include:
- Removing asbestos cement sheets
- Drilling textured coatings
- Minor asbestos maintenance tasks
- Encapsulation work
Category B asbestos training includes more detailed practical information covering:
- Safe working methods
- Use of PPE and RPE
- Decontamination procedures
- Waste disposal
- Risk assessments and control measures
Non licensed asbestos training is essential for many tradespeople working on refurbishment and maintenance projects.
Category C Asbestos Training
Category C asbestos training applies to licensed asbestos work. This is the highest level of asbestos training and is intended for those carrying out high risk asbestos removal activities.
Licensed asbestos work may involve:
- Pipe insulation removal
- Sprayed coatings
- Asbestos insulating board (AIB) removal in higher risk conditions
This level of training is significantly more advanced and is usually completed alongside practical assessments, medical requirements, and strict licensing conditions.
Online asbestos training has become increasingly popular due to its flexibility and accessibility. Many workers and businesses choose online asbestos awareness training because it allows delegates to complete the course remotely without travelling to a training centre.
Benefits of online asbestos training include:
- Flexible learning times
- Immediate certification
- Reduced downtime for businesses
- Cost effective compliance training
- Easy refresher training for employees
Online asbestos training is especially useful for businesses managing large teams across multiple sites.
UKATA Training Explained
One of the most recognised standards in the industry is UKATA training. United Kingdom Asbestos Training Association sets standards for asbestos training providers across the UK.
UKATA asbestos training helps ensure courses meet recognised industry requirements and are delivered to a high standard. Employers often specifically request UKATA training when booking asbestos awareness courses for staff.
