Are you wondering whether to offer your employees IATP or UKATA asbestos awareness training? Here we discuss what asbestos awareness training covers, legal requirements and the similarities and differences between IATP and UKATA to help you decide.
With asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) responsible for 5,000 deaths each year in the UK, employers are legally required to provide staff with appropriate asbestos awareness training if they may come into contact with ACMs at work.
What is asbestos awareness training?
Asbestos awareness training helps managers, supervisors and workers understand the risks from asbestos containing materials (ACMs) in premises, plant and equipment. This training minimises the risk of exposure and reduces potential harm.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommend that asbestos awareness courses cover the following syllabus:
Asbestos properties and health effects
The characteristics of asbestos and the serious health risks linked to exposure, including diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma, ranging from lung scarring to life-threatening cancers.
Types, uses and occurrence of asbestos
The different types of asbestos, where it was commonly used, and where ACMs are likely to be found in buildings, plant and equipment.
Emergency procedures for asbestos incidents
What to do in situations such as the accidental disturbance of asbestos or the uncontrolled release of asbestos dust, helping to reduce further risk and ensure appropriate action is taken.
Preventing exposure to asbestos
Practical steps to avoid disturbing ACMs, including safe working practices and recognising situations where additional precautions are required.
Is asbestos awareness training a legal requirement?
Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, employers have a legal duty to ensure that anyone liable to be exposed to asbestos receives adequate information, instruction and training.
Regulation 10 requires that employees are given appropriate asbestos awareness training, while Regulation 4 (duty to manage asbestos) places responsibility on those in control of premises to identify and manage asbestos risks.
This means employers must ensure that employees and those working on their behalf, such as contractors, are competent and have the knowledge needed to work safely in environments where asbestos may be present.
While asbestos awareness training follows a recognised syllabus, the regulations do not prescribe exactly how training should be delivered. Employers are expected to choose a suitable format, such as eLearning, virtual or face-to-face training.
How often should asbestos awareness training be refreshed?
There is no fixed legal interval for refresher training under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
However, under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, Regulation 13, employers must ensure that training is provided and updated where appropriate, particularly if risks change or employees’ roles develop.
What does UKATA stand for?
UKATA stands for the United Kingdom Asbestos Training Association.
So, what is UKATA? It is a leading UK body that sets standards for asbestos training and approves training providers to deliver courses that meet its requirements. UKATA is widely recognised across industries such as construction and facilities management.
UKATA offers a structured framework covering different levels of asbestos training, including asbestos awareness.
What does IATP stand for?
IATP stands for the Independent Asbestos Training Providers.
IATP is an association of approved training providers that maintains high standards in asbestos training delivery, particularly for asbestos awareness. This professional body ensures that training is consistent, compliant with legislation and accessible.
Should you choose IATP or UKATA training?
IATP and UKATA asbestos awareness courses are recognised and accepted across the UK. Both courses support compliance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and follow the HSE syllabus.
IATP asbestos awareness training is aimed at employees who may come across asbestos during their work but are at relatively low risk of doing so. This includes maintenance staff, supervisors and office-based staff.
UKATA asbestos awareness training is suitable for those who are more likely to encounter asbestos during their work, such as tradespeople. In some industries, such as construction, UKATA-approved training may be a specific requirement.
UKATA asbestos awareness training is often the preferred choice where learners may need to work directly with ACMs in future, as UKATA offers a clear pathway into more advanced training.
Is there a difference in cost between IATP and UKATA courses?
IATP asbestos awareness courses are usually lower priced than UKATA and are cost-effective for training large numbers of employees.
UKATA courses are normally more expensive, reflecting their wider use in contractor environments and alignment with broader asbestos training pathways.
Pricing varies depending on the provider, delivery method (eLearning, virtual or face-to-face), and the level of support included. The most important consideration must always be whether the training is appropriate for your employees’ roles.
Why choose Praxis42 asbestos awareness courses?
With Praxis42 you can choose between IATP or UKATA asbestos awareness courses. Both courses can be delivered via eLearning, virtually or face-to-face, and bespoke options are available.
Developed by our in-house chartered safety practitioners and eLearning experts, our courses are engaging and exceed the recommended HSE syllabus and requirements of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
To find out more, please talk to our friendly team on 0203 011 4242 or info@praxis42.com
Tom Escobar
Director of Services & Training
