Apprentice Asbestos Training: Why Early Awareness Matters

Last Updated on 12 November 2025

Introduction – Apprentice Asbestos Training

Although banned in the UK back in November 1999, asbestos still lurks in millions of homes, schools, and workplaces. Without proper apprentice asbestos awareness training, new entrants to the construction industry and trades may be exposed to something that could harm or kill them decades down the line.

When these young people initially step into a trade apprenticeship, they expect to learn the tools of their trade: wiring, plumbing, plastering, carpentry. But what most of them don’t realise is that one of the biggest risks they face isn’t about sharp tools or heavy machinery – it’s infact asbestos! Therefore, it’s absolutely vital that they receive the right training at the outset.

The Hidden Risks for Apprentices

Asbestos isn’t just history, it’s a present-day threat. Every year, more than 5,000 people in the UK die from asbestos-related illnesses such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and asbestos-related lung cancer.

Apprentices are especially at risk when working on older buildings, where asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) might be hidden in walls, ceilings, floor tiles, or insulation. Tasks as simple as drilling a hole or removing old fittings can disturb asbestos fibres.

The problem? Many apprentices start work without the asbestos awareness training they need in order to:-

1. Spot possible asbestos-containing materials.
2. Read asbestos surveys.
3. Understand what to do if they encounter them.
4. Follow HSE asbestos guidance and health and safety regulations.

 

Why Apprentice Asbestos Training Is Under the Spotlight

There’s a growing debate in the industry about whether apprentices are being given the right training at the right time. Critics point out that:-

• Training isn’t consistent – Some apprenticeships cover asbestos awareness early on, while others delay it or miss it altogether.
• Employers sometimes fall short – Particularly in smaller firms, apprentices may be expected to “learn on the job” rather than receive proper asbestos training.
• Regulations demand better – The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is clear: anyone who might disturb asbestos through the curse of their work (and those that supervise them) must be trained before setting foot on site.

This patchy approach has put apprentice asbestos training under scrutiny, and for good reason.

Why Early Asbestos Training For Apprentice’s Matters

Health and safety experts argue that asbestos awareness should be introduced from day one of every apprenticeship. Making asbestos training mandatory at the start for every apprentice could:-

• Encourage a safety-first mindset from the beginning.
• Prevent apprentices from unknowingly exposing themselves or others.
• Ensure employers meet asbestos management regulations. Particularly Regulation 10.
• Give young workers the confidence to stop work if something looks suspicious.

Trades like plumbing, electrics, carpentry, and heating installation often involve tasks that can easily disturb ACMs. Therefore, training apprentices before they pick up a drill or hammer is critical.

Raising the Bar for Apprentice Asbestos Training

So how can the industry fix this gap? A few steps could make a big difference:-

1. Standardising asbestos awareness requirements across all UK apprenticeship programmes.
2. Requiring yearly refresher training for the first 5 years.
3. Using real-life case studies and digital asbestos registers to make learning more practical.
4. Holding employers accountable for providing thorough asbestos safety training.

Types of Asbestos Training for Apprentices

It’s important to note that not all asbestos training is the same. There are different levels of training available. For apprentices, the most common starting point is Asbestos Awareness Training, but depending on their trade and tasks, they may require more advanced training. Ultimately, asbestos training isn’t optional – it’s a legal requirement under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (Regulation 10), making it an essential step in any apprentice’s career journey.

Here are the different types of asbestos training available, depending on the level of exposure that an apprentice might face in their trade:-

1. Asbestos Awareness Training – This is the most common course for apprentices. It provides basic knowledge about asbestos, where it might be found, and what to do if encountered. It does not qualify someone to work directly with asbestos but ensures they can recognise the danger.
2. Non-Licensed Asbestos Training – This is for workers who may carry out tasks that involve disturbing lower-risk asbestos materials, such as working with asbestos-containing floor tiles or removing small amounts of asbestos ‘Artex’. Apprentices in certain trades might need this as they progress in their careers.
3. Licensed Asbestos Removal Training – This is the highest level of asbestos training, required for anyone working directly with high-risk asbestos removal.  Specifically in the HSE licensed asbestos removal sphere.  While apprentices rarely start here, those aiming to specialise in asbestos removal companies may eventually pursue this.

Each type of training equips apprentices with different levels of knowledge and skills, ensuring they stay safe in real-world work environments. Choosing the right level of asbestos training depends on the nature of their apprenticeship program and the kind of work the apprentice will be exposed to.

Conclusion

The reality is simple: asbestos hasn’t gone away. It remains in the fabric of many of the buildings we live and work in, and apprentices are on the frontline of exposure risks.

Consequently, the UK cannot afford to overlook the dangers of asbestos for new generations entering the trades.

By making apprentice asbestos training mandatory and consistent across the UK, the industry can protect young workers and raise the standard of health and safety. Apprentices should never have to learn about asbestos dangers through trial and error – they should be protected by knowledge from day one.

Need professional advice?

We hope that you found our latest blog article on Apprentice Asbestos Training both interesting and informative.  If you have apprentices that need asbestos training, then please get in touch to arrange this.  Likewise, If you need any help or advice in regards to asbestos in your property then we’ll be very happy to assist you.  Give us a call and our experts will give you some advice and guidance on whatever if is you’re concerned about.

Please contact us on 0800 141 2676, email us at info@rbasbestos.co.uk or fill in the form below.

Our professional surveyors conduct asbestos inspections and surveys every day across the UK on all types of properties, both residential and commercial, for private home owners and commercial property Managers and owners.  So when it comes to managing ACMs in your property, you’re in very safe hands with RB!!

Check out our customer reviews on Google.