COURSE OVERVIEW:
The Asbestos Awareness Level 1 (VTQ) course is designed for anyone who may come into contact with asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) during their work. Asbestos was widely used in UK buildings between the 1950s and 1980s, and any property built before 2000 — including homes, schools, offices and hospitals — may still contain it. While asbestos in good condition is generally safe, it becomes extremely dangerous when fibres are released into the air through damage or disturbance. This course explains the risks, how to identify potential ACMs, and what to do if you encounter them. Accredited and endorsed by TQUK, it is also independently certified for CPD compliance, providing learners with a nationally recognised certificate on completion.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:
- Understand what asbestos is and why it is dangerous
- Identify the types of asbestos and where they are commonly found
- Recognise materials that may contain asbestos in the workplace
- Know what to do if you discover or suspect asbestos-containing materials
- Understand your legal duties and responsibilities regarding asbestos
- Know how to protect yourself and your colleagues from asbestos exposure
KEY TOPICS COVERED:
- What is Asbestos and Why is it Dangerous?
- Types of Asbestos and Where They are Found
- Health Risks and Diseases Caused by Asbestos
- Legal Duties Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012
- Identifying Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACMs)
- What to Do if You Encounter Asbestos
COURSE CURRICULUM:
UNIT 1 Understanding Asbestos & the Risks Objective: Give learners a clear understanding of what asbestos is, the health risks it poses and where it is commonly found.
What is Asbestos? The history of asbestos use in UK buildings Why asbestos was used and when its use was banned The three main types — chrysotile, amosite and crocidolite
Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure How asbestos fibres enter the body and cause harm Diseases caused by asbestos — mesothelioma, asbestosis, lung cancer Why symptoms can take 20–40 years to develop
Where is Asbestos Found? Common locations in residential and commercial buildings Materials likely to contain asbestos — insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, pipe lagging How to recognise potentially dangerous materials
UNIT 2 Legal Duties, Identification & Safe Working Objective: Ensure learners understand their legal responsibilities and know exactly what to do if they encounter asbestos-containing materials.
Legal Framework The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 Duties of employers and employees The duty to manage asbestos in non-domestic premises
Identifying Asbestos-Containing Materials The importance of asbestos surveys and registers How to read and use an asbestos register Why you should never assume a material is asbestos-free
What to Do if You Find Asbestos Stop work immediately — the golden rule How to report suspected ACMs When licensed contractors must be used Emergency procedures if accidental disturbance occurs
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