HSG 53 Respiratory Protective Equipment at Work-compressed

The focus of asbestos regulation changed in 2002 when the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations

(CAWR) 2002 were introduced. For the first time a duty to manage asbestos material was introduced

which is now often referred to as Regulation 4 or ‘The Duty to Manage’.

It was recognised that this was a big change for industry and as a result a grace period of 18 months

was given before this new regulation came into effect.

Within this time frame Colette became the asbestos manager for what was the largest NHS Trust in

the country. It soon became apparent that managing asbestos was not a simple task. To say this role

was challenging would be an understatement!

Training within the asbestos industry has, until now, focused on those how work within it. Licensed

removal contractors have specific training as do surveyors and analysts. So, what about the people

who allow these professionals to work on and within their premises?

The introduction of the duty to manage made business owners explicitly responsible for the asbestos

within their buildings. This means that they are the ones who are prosecuted if this management

isn’t to the required standard even if they have relied upon advice of professionals from within the

asbestos industry.

The D suite of qualifications have been devised to provide individuals with the knowledge of what is

required to successfully manage asbestos. This knowledge will then be invaluable in the

development of your own asbestos management procedures. This suite of qualifications covers a

range of levels to acknowledge the different roles and responsibilities within an organisation. The

qualifications cover a basic grounding and understanding of asbestos management, the requirements

and practicalities of compliance for those managing and instructing works right through to those who

act as the active Duty Holder or their Appointed Person. As such there will be a qualification to suit

your needs and can also act as a development pathway.