Asbestos has a long history, and it was a common material in building construction. Although it was banned in 1999, it remains a hidden hazard in most buildings worldwide. WHO statistics indicate that over 90,000 people lose their lives due to asbestos-related diseases worldwide. Asbestos also increases the risk of noncancerous diseases.
This alarming statistic highlights the need for asbestos awareness training among the general public. Especially for those working in industries where there is potential for asbestos exposure, awareness becomes even more important.
What is Asbestos and why is it dangerous?
Asbestos is a hazardous and naturally occurring fibrous silicate material. Aspects such as durability and heat resistance led to the widespread use of the material in manufacturing and construction industries. The fibrous structure of the asbestos is the reason for its dangerous properties.
If the asbestos-containing materials are disturbed through processes such as drilling, cutting or demolition, they will release tiny asbestos fibres into the air. These particles are invisible and, if inhaled, they lead to severe health issues, including lung illnesses and cancer.
Who is at more risk of asbestos exposure?
Those who work in construction industries and in settings where there is potential for asbestos exposure, including shipyards, maintenance, and demolition of buildings with asbestos, are at high risk.
People residing near mines are also exposed to asbestos fibres if released into the air.
Importance of Asbestos Awareness Training
Asbestos awareness training is very important for all involved in a work environment where there is the presence of asbestos. Gaining an awareness of the ways to recognize and manage asbestos-containing materials and related risks will help avoid unnecessary exposure. Though asbestos is no longer in use now, yet, the buildings that were constructed before 2000 remain a threat as they contain asbestos materials.
If these buildings are demolished or disturbed/damaged for renovation or maintenance, they become dangerous.
Here, awareness is the key to preventing deadly diseases and consequences.
Real-time example: –
Let’s understand the importance of asbestos awareness training through a recent incident.
On November 17, 2025, in New Zealand and Australia, trace amounts of asbestos were observed in some samples of coloured play sand in early childhood centres and schools. The presence of the dangerous asbestos urged the Government to close over 70 public schools and to rush to remove the potentially contaminated products. As the lab testing had detected chrysotile asbestos and tremolite, ACCC, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, has issued a publication regarding recalling numerous colourful play sand products.
Though the risk is relatively low, the Government is still engaged in taking precautions.
This incident highlights that asbestos remains a live risk and emphasizes the need for extensive awareness about asbestos management.
Looking for safety training in Australia? Check out here for NEBOSH and workplace safety qualifications.
Legal Guidelines for asbestos awareness
Employers across the world are legally bound to make sure that the employees are aware of the dangers of asbestos and skills to manage potential exposure.
UK Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 mandate that the workers who come into contact with asbestos in their routine work should have undergone the necessary asbestos awareness training.
Avoid the risk of asbestos with GWG’s Asbestos Awareness Training
Green World Group, the leading health & safety consultancy services and solutions provider, aims to raise the awareness of individuals about the toxic asbestos and stay safe through working with asbestos training. This training is designed to provide participants with skills and knowledge to identify the presence of asbestos, realise the health risks, safely report the risks, and competently and safely work without risk to themselves and others.
By providing training to the employees, organizations can make sure that their people are safe around asbestos.
Strengthen your workplace safety and equip employees with an essential understanding to manage asbestos risks. Contact GWG today!
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