Asbestos Awareness Week 2026 

Each year, Global Asbestos Awareness Week shines a spotlight on one of the construction industry’s most persistent and dangerous risks. Despite being banned in the UK for over two decades, asbestos remains present in millions of buildings- and continues to pose a serious threat to workers across multiple sectors. 

At Raeburn Training, we’re supporting this year’s campaign by reinforcing a simple but critical message: awareness saves lives. 

Why Asbestos Still Matters 

According to industry bodies such as the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health and insights shared across the Health and Safety Executive network, asbestos exposure remains the leading cause of work-related deaths in the UK. 

• Around 5,000 people die each year from asbestos-related diseases  
• These illnesses, including mesothelioma and asbestosis, often take decades to develop  
• Many workers exposed today may not realise the risk until it’s too late  

This is why awareness- and training- is absolutely essential. 

Where Is Asbestos Found? 

Asbestos was widely used in construction materials before its ban in 1999. You’ll still commonly find it in: 

• Insulation materials  
• Ceiling tiles and textured coatings  
• Pipe lagging  
• Cement products  
• Floor tiles and roofing sheets  

It’s particularly prevalent in buildings constructed or refurbished before 2000- meaning many workplaces today still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). 

Who Is Most at Risk? 

While asbestos is often associated with construction, the risk extends far beyond: 

• Construction and demolition workers  
• Electricians and plumbers  
• Maintenance and facilities teams  
• Engineers and surveyors  
• Even teachers, caretakers, and office workers in older buildings  

The key issue? Disturbing asbestos unknowingly. 

The Importance of Asbestos Awareness Training 

The focus of this year’s awareness week is clear: education is prevention. 

Proper training ensures that workers can: 

✔ Identify potential asbestos-containing materials 
✔ Understand the risks of exposure 
✔ Follow safe working practices 
✔ Know what to do if asbestos is suspected or disturbed 

Without this knowledge, even routine tasks- like drilling, cutting, or maintenance- can become high-risk activities. 

What Should You Do? 

If you or your team work in environments where asbestos may be present: 

• Do not disturb materials unless you are trained and authorised  
• Check asbestos registers and surveys before starting work  
• Report concerns immediately  
• Ensure all relevant staff complete Asbestos Awareness training 

Our Commitment at Raeburn Training 

At Raeburn Training, we’re committed to helping individuals and organisations stay safe through high-quality, practical training. 

Our Asbestos Awareness courses are designed to give delegates the confidence and knowledge to: 

• Recognise asbestos risks in real-world scenarios  
• Make informed decisions on site  
• Protect themselves and others  

Because when it comes to asbestos- what you don’t know can harm you. 

Final Thoughts

Asbestos-related diseases are preventable. The risks are well understood. The controls are clear. 

So this Asbestos Awareness Week, take a moment to ask: 

Are you and your team properly informed? 

If not, now is the time to act.