The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is urging those in charge of buildings to be aware of the dangers of asbestos.

According to the HSE, whether you’re responsible for maintenance and repair of buildings, or doing the work yourself, you need to know about the risks of asbestos, how to manage, how not to disturb it and when to involve an asbestos specialist.

There is no safe level of asbestos exposure and all work on asbestos-containing materials requires specific training and controls, the HSE says. It is illegal to carry out work without these and asbestos waste must be disposed of in accordance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and other relevant legislation.

If you are responsible for maintenance and repair of non-domestic buildings, you have a legal duty to manage asbestos safely, which means:

• Assessing asbestos-containing materials present (or suspected)
• Keeping an up-to-date record or register of the location and condition
• Assessing the risk of anyone being exposed
• Keeping an asbestos management plan that’s regularly monitored and reviewed
• Making sure you’ve got the right skills and training.

The HSE has warned that workers in skilled construction and building trades are at particular risk of asbestos exposure. If you’re a tradesperson, or manage workers in building, maintenance and allied trades, make sure you know:

• What asbestos-containing materials look like and where they can be found
• How to safely carry out work without disturbing asbestos
• What to do when you come across it
• About asbestos awareness training.

Find out more about the HSE’s Asbestos – Your Duty campaign.