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HSE announces asbestos risk events for small companies

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has announced a number of events, taking place throughout May, which aim to increase awareness in small companies of the dangers involved with asbestos.

According to the HSE, many small regional construction businesses and tradespeople do not know enough about their responsibilities when it comes to asbestos safety, and those in the South Yorkshire and Humber region will be able to attend the training sessions.

Every week 20 tradesmen, including plumbers, electricians, joiners and engineers die from asbestos-related illnesses and more should be done to ensure adequate risk assessments are carried out, according to the HSE.

Medani Close, inspector for the HSE, said: "Asbestos awareness training should be given to employees who may be exposed to asbestos risks. This training helps employees to recognise asbestos and take the necessary steps to avoid exposure to it."

After the recent fine of a factory owner, the HSE said that the removal of asbestos should only be carried out by licensed workers.

Quantum Risk Management are a leading Health and Safety Consultancy

Posted on 30/04/2009

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