By Mark Smith 01/04/2026

Under: PPE and Workwear / News and Events / Health and Safety News

Global Asbestos Awareness Week 2026: Protecting Construction Workers from Risks

Global Asbestos Awareness Week (1–7 April 2026) highlights the importance of understanding and managing asbestos risks, particularly in the construction industry where exposure is still a serious concern.

Although asbestos was widely used in buildings across the UK for decades, it is now known to pose severe health risks when disturbed. Many buildings constructed before the year 2000 may still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).

At Enfield Safety, we are committed to improving asbestos awareness in construction and helping businesses meet their legal responsibilities while protecting workers from potentially life-threatening exposure.

What is asbestos? 

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction due to its heat resistance, durability, and insulation properties.

Historically, asbestos was commonly used in:

• Ceiling tiles
• Pipe insulation
• Boilers and heating systems
• Spray coatings
• Roofing materials
• Flooring and wall insulation

When asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed, microscopic fibres can become airborne. These fibres can be inhaled and remain in the lungs, potentially causing serious diseases many years later.

Because asbestos was so widely used, any building built before 2000 should be assumed to contain asbestos unless proven otherwise through a professional asbestos survey.

Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure

Exposure to asbestos fibres can lead to several serious and often fatal diseases, including:

Asbestosis

A chronic lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibres, leading to lung scarring and breathing difficulties.

Lung Cancer

Long-term exposure to asbestos significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer, especially among construction workers.

Mesothelioma

A rare but aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs or abdomen, almost exclusively linked to asbestos exposure.

One of the biggest dangers is the long latency period. Symptoms may take 20–40 years to develop, making prevention and proper asbestos management essential.

UK Asbestos Regulations and Legal Responsibilities

Asbestos was fully banned in the UK in 1999, but millions of buildings still contain asbestos materials.

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, those responsible for non-domestic properties have a legal duty to manage asbestos risks.

This duty includes:

• Identifying asbestos-containing materials (ACMs)
• Assessing the condition of asbestos
• Maintaining an asbestos management plan
• Preventing workers from being exposed to asbestos fibres

Failing to manage asbestos properly can result in serious health consequences and legal penalties.

What To Do If Asbestos Is Discovered On Site

If asbestos is suspected or discovered during construction or maintenance work, it is vital to act immediately:

1. Stop Work Immediately
Any activity that may disturb asbestos must stop right away.

2. Restrict Access
Seal off the area to prevent additional exposure.

3. Contact Licensed Asbestos Professionals
Qualified asbestos specialists should assess the material and determine the next steps.

4. Implement Safe Control Measures
Depending on the situation, asbestos may need to be encapsulated, managed in place, or safely removed by licensed contractors.

Why an Asbestos Survey Is Essential

An asbestos survey is the most effective way to identify asbestos risks in a building.

Professional surveys inspect a property to locate asbestos-containing materials and assess their condition.

Types of Asbestos Surveys

Management Survey

A standard survey designed to locate ACMs during normal building occupation and maintenance.

Refurbishment and Demolition Survey

A more intrusive inspection is required before renovation or demolition work begins.

The findings are documented in an asbestos report, which outlines:

• Locations of asbestos materials
• Risk assessments
• Recommended control measures

This report is essential before any construction, refurbishment, or maintenance work in older buildings.

PPE for Working Around Asbestos

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) plays a critical role in reducing asbestos exposure risks.

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, employers must provide appropriate PPE to protect employees.
Recommended PPE when working near asbestos includes:

• Disposable coveralls to prevent fibres from contaminating clothing
• Disposable gloves to protect hands and prevent fibre contamination
• Disposable shoe covers to stop fibres from spreading beyond the site
• Full-face respirators with suitable filters to prevent inhalation of asbestos fibres

Workers should also shower after completing work to remove any fibres that may have settled on the skin.

Working Safely in Buildings That Contain Asbestos

It is possible to work in buildings that contain asbestos if the materials are in good condition and remain undisturbed.
However, any task that could disturb asbestos must be:

• Carefully planned
• Risk assessed
• Conducted by trained professionals

All areas where asbestos is present should be clearly marked with asbestos warning signage to alert workers and prevent accidental disturbance.

What To Do After Possible Asbestos Exposure

If a worker believes they have been exposed to asbestos, the following steps should be taken:

1. Record the Exposure
Document how the exposure occurred, including the location and duration.

2. Seek Medical Advice
A healthcare professional can assess the risk and recommend monitoring.

3. Review Workplace Safety Procedures
Investigate the incident and improve safety measures to prevent future exposure.

Raising Asbestos Awareness in Construction

Global Asbestos Awareness Week is an important reminder of the ongoing risks asbestos poses in the construction industry.

By improving asbestos awareness, carrying out proper surveys, using correct PPE, and following UK asbestos regulations, businesses can protect workers and maintain safer construction environments.

At Enfield Safety, we are dedicated to supporting organisations with the knowledge, training, and resources needed to manage asbestos safely.

Need expert advice on asbestos safety or surveys?
Speak to one of our asbestos specialists today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Asbestos

Is asbestos still found in UK buildings?
Yes. Many buildings constructed before 2000 still contain asbestos materials.

Do I need an asbestos survey before renovation?
Yes. A refurbishment or demolition survey is legally required before major building work.

What PPE protects against asbestos?
Disposable coveralls, gloves, shoe covers and respirators with filters are typically required, all of which can be supplied by Enfield Safety.