The Value of Asbestos Training
Asbestos training is extremely important, as it ensures that this dangerous material is dealt with in the safest and most secure way. Asbestos is a building material that can cause a lot of harm and is responsible for more than 4500 deaths every year. It was a material that was used very widely within commercial buildings until the year 1999, when it was banned because of the danger. This means that asbestos is common within many buildings built before 1999. When asbestos fibres enter the lungs, they can result in diseases including mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis – which can be very serious and almost always fatal. Those who work closely with asbestos, such as builders, renovators and demolition teams have higher risks of being exposed to airborne asbestos – much higher than the normal environmental risk.Asbestos Training is a Legal Responsibility
According to the current regulations, asbestos training is a legal responsibility that all employers need to enforce. All employees who are likely to be exposed to asbestos as part of their work should have the appropriate asbestos training, so that they will be safe. This training includes asbestos awareness, training for any work involving asbestos and guidelines on how to correctly remove asbestos and dispose of this material. With the right training, you will be able to significantly reduce the unnecessary exposure to the asbestos risks. There are many different courses available, which are tailored to the specific needs of the client so that learning can be maximised.What Do Asbestos Training Courses Include?
Any employee who might potentially be exposed to asbestos during their normal workday should undergo training, so that they can recognise the materials and know how to deal with them. This training needs to be adapted to the specific type of work that the employer is doing and the role that they have undertaken. There are many different asbestos training courses out there, so take the time to compare your options and find the course that is best suited to your particular needs. Asbestos training courses will often include the following:- An introduction to what asbestos is – the common types that are found and the fibre groups.
- Information about the history of asbestos and when it was banned.
- An explanation of the health risks of asbestos and information about the diseases that can be potentially caused by this material.
- Knowledge of the increased risk of lung cancer from asbestos experienced by those who smoke.
- A guide to where to find asbestos and what to look for when performing an inspection on a home.
- How to make an assessment of the risk of exposure to asbestos.
- The different types of asbestos, what they are used for and where they are likely to occur.
- An in depth explanation of the current legislation regarding dealing with asbestos, so that you can be aware and up to date in your knowledge.
- An introduction to the responsibilities of the duty holder and the legal obligations of following safe practices in the workplace.
- Tips for avoiding the risk of exposure to asbestos. An explanation of the safe work practices and safety control measures, including work methods and protective equipment.
- How to deal with an emergency and what to do if asbestos dust was accidentally released into the workplace.
Who Is Asbestos Training For?
Asbestos training is relevant to a number of different employees in a range of industries. For example, this includes electricians, joiners, general maintenance workers, plumbers, plasterers, roofers, construction workers, painters and decorators, gas fitters, heating and ventilation engineers, architects, demolition workers, fire/burglar alarm installers, telecommunication engineers, building surveyors, computer installers and much more. Of course, these are just a few examples and there are many other occupations who are liable to disturb asbestos, as well as the ones that are listed above. It is the responsibility of the employer to ensure that your employees have the right training, experience and knowledge so that they can carry out the work – without risking any harm to themselves. Also, it is crucial that the managers and supervisors in your workplace are also training and aware of the responsibilities that they hold.How to Choose an Asbestos Training Provider
It is essential for your company to have the correct asbestos training, but with so many different courses out there to choose from – how do you select the right one? Here are some tips to keep in mind when you are choosing an asbestos training provider:- Do you want the trainer to come to your place of business, or would you prefer to travel to another location for the course? Both options are available, it depends on whether you have the appropriate classroom space within your workplace or not.
- If you are travelling to the classroom to attend the course, does the provider have convenient locations that are easy for you to access?
- Look for an asbestos training provider who specialises in your particular industry, so that they will be aware of the subtle details that come up in a typical workday.
- Also, look for a course that is targeted toward the right level of employee. For example, there are some courses that are designed for managers and others that are for workers.
- Check to make sure that the course provider is up to date with the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations.
- Consider your budget and find out what the fee is for the course. However, don’t always go for the cheapest course because you will get what you pay for. It is best to choose the provider who offers you good value.