If you are familiar with the HSE Asbestos Awareness requirements but unsure where to look for a training provider, a good place to start is with an approved association.
HSE Asbestos Awareness guidelines state that training providers should have, “adequate practical experience in the asbestos sector and a theoretical knowledge of all relevant aspects of the work being carried out by the employee.”
The UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA) is approved by the Health and Safety Executive and audits its members to ensure ongoing high standards of training. Training providers listed by UKATA undergo regular reviews to ensure that course content stays up-to-date.
UKATA’s website contains a comprehensive directory of training providers. Their Find A Member section has a useful search facility where inputting a postcode or town will return a list of local providers, plus links to their website.
Classroom or online?
HSE Asbestos Awareness courses can be delivered in a classroom format, or online. Some people prefer to attend classroom courses because they learn better in this type of environment – they benefit from interaction with other students and are able to ask questions of the tutor directly.
Having said that, there are significant benefits to undertaking an e-learning course:
- Flexibility of being able to fit in learning during a busy day
- The ability to learn at your own pace
- Not being restricted by geographical location – online courses are not location-specific which widens the choice of suitable providers.
Taking an HSE Asbestos Awareness course is a legal requirement if you think you might come into contact with the substance during your working day. Whether you choose the classroom training environment or online option, this course will bring awareness about how to avoid asbestos so that you don’t endanger your own or anyone else’s health.