Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006

Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom (variant 1, 1952-2022)

== Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006 ==

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006 is a set of regulations enacted in the United Kingdom to control the risks associated with asbestos exposure. These regulations were introduced to protect workers and the general public from the harmful effects of asbestos-containing materials.

Overview

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006 outline the responsibilities of employers, building owners, and contractors in managing asbestos in the workplace. The regulations require the identification of asbestos-containing materials, assessment of the risks posed by these materials, and implementation of control measures to minimize exposure.

Key Provisions

The key provisions of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006 include:

1. Duty to Manage: Employers and building owners have a legal duty to manage asbestos in non-domestic premises, ensuring that the risks are properly assessed and controlled.

2. Asbestos Surveys: The regulations require asbestos surveys to be conducted to identify the presence of asbestos-containing materials in buildings.

3. Risk Assessment: Employers must assess the risks posed by asbestos and develop a plan to manage these risks effectively.

4. Training: Workers who may come into contact with asbestos must receive appropriate training to handle asbestos safely.

5. Notification: Certain work involving asbestos must be notified to the relevant enforcing authority.

6. Prohibition: The regulations prohibit the import, supply, and use of certain types of asbestos-containing materials.

Enforcement

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006 are enforced by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in the UK. The HSE conducts inspections and investigations to ensure compliance with the regulations and takes enforcement action against those who fail to meet their obligations.

Impact

Since the introduction of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006, there has been greater awareness of the risks associated with asbestos exposure and improved management of asbestos in buildings. This has led to a reduction in the number of asbestos-related diseases and improved safety for workers and the public.