As we begin the new year, it's the perfect time to ensure your asbestos management fundamentals are in good shape.
If you manage non-domestic buildings or multi-occupancy domestic premises, you have a legal duty to manage asbestos which requires that you:
- assess if there are asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) present, the amount, where they are and their condition
- presume materials contain asbestos unless there is strong evidence that they do not
- make, and keep up to date, a record or register of the location and condition of the ACMs or presumed ACMs
- assess the risk of anyone being exposed to airborne fibres from the ACMs
- write an asbestos management plan to manage the risk, put the plan into action, monitor it and review it every 12 months or sooner if necessary
- monitor the condition of any ACMs or suspected ACMs
- provide information on the location and condition of the ACMs to anyone who may work on or disturb them, including the emergency services
January is a good time to review your asbestos risk register and asbestos management plan. These aren't just paperwork – they're vital tools that protect everyone who works in or visits your building.
For free resources to help you manage asbestos effectively, visit our Asbestos – Your Duty campaign webpages.
The new year is a popular time for home improvements and tradespeople must plan work safely.
Before any work starts, it's essential that tradespeople check for asbestos and assess whether it could be present and whether their work might disturb it.
Asbestos can still be found in older properties. Examples include:
- fireplaces and surroundings
- roof eaves and gable ends
- textured coatings
- electric and boiler cupboards
- flooring
- garage roofs
HSE’s Asbestos and You campaign webpages provide information for trades to plan work safely, with examples of what to watch for. Resources you can access here include our:
- downloadable 'Quick guide for trades'
- Asbestos essentials tasksheets, which offer step-by-step guidance
Take our quick Asbestos and You quiz
Do you know enough to protect yourself and others from asbestos?
Test your knowledge with 8 quick questions.
You can share your results on social media to see how others do.
12 March 2026, HSE Science and Research Centre, Buxton.
This course is delivered by HSE experts and introduces the responsibilities of dutyholders, asbestos legislation and guidance.
It will help you understand your obligations and teach you the standards needed to properly manage asbestos risks.
Find out more and book: Asbestos management in buildings
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