Asbestos remains a hidden danger in many buildings across the UK, and asbestos-related diseases continue to claim thousands of lives each year. This is why it’s so crucial for all workers and employers to undergo asbestos awareness training and understand the risks of this material.
While some asbestos-related tasks require a licensed contractor due to the high risk of exposure, there are other tasks that are considered low risk and can be carried out by trained professionals without the need for a license. In this blog, we’ll define non-licensable asbestos work, how to differentiate non-licensable work from licensable work, and how NATAS can help.
What is Non-Licensable Asbestos Work?
Non-licensable asbestos work refers to tasks that involve asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) where asbestos exposure is minimal, sporadic, and of low intensity. Provided they are carried out correctly and controlled effectively, these tasks are deemed to pose a lower risk of harm. However, this doesn’t mean they are completely without risk, and employers must still ensure the proper safety measures are in place.
Examples of non-licensable asbestos work:
- Drilling holes in asbestos cement: This task can be performed safely with non-powered hand tools and by employing dust suppression techniques to minimise airborne fibres.
- Removing small areas of textured decorative coatings: Commonly found in older buildings, like Artex ceilings or walls, which can be safely removed with appropriate dust control measures.
- Encapsulation of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs): Sealing or enclosing ACMs in good condition to prevent the release of asbestos fibres into the air.
- Maintenance of ACMs like floor tiles and roof sheeting: Performing repairs on ACMs without significantly disturbing the material or causing fibres to be released.
How to Differentiate Non-Licensable Work from Licensable Work
While non-licensable asbestos work is deemed lower risk, licensable asbestos work involves activities that carry a much higher risk of exposure and require a licensed contractor. Some examples of licensable work include:
Removal of sprayed coatings (limpet asbestos):
Often found on fireproofing or noise insulation on structural steel, this type of work involves friable asbestos that can easily release fibres when disturbed.
Work on asbestos insulating board (AIB);
Commonly used for fire protection and insulation, AIB is especially dangerous as it is brittle and can release asbestos fibres when cut or disturbed.
Cleaning up significant quantities of loose asbestos debris:
If asbestos debris is substantial, it can pose a significant risk, requiring specialist equipment and handling.
If a task involves disturbing friable materials or could result in exposure above the control limit of 0.1 f/cm³ over a four-hour period, it is classified as licensable work and requires specific health and safety measures, including the use of a licensed asbestos contractor.
How NATAS Supports Safe Non-Licensable Asbestos Work
Here at NATAS, we offer a range of online and in-person training courses designed to make sure workers are equipped to handle non-licensable asbestos tasks. These include:
Asbestos awareness training:
Provides workers with the knowledge to identify and handle ACMs safely.
Duty to manage asbestos course:
Equips those responsible for managing asbestos risks with the legal knowledge and best practices required to comply with regulations.
Working at height training:
Ensures workers are safe when performing tasks at height, especially when asbestos-containing materials are present.
Safeguard Your Team with NATAS Today
Understanding what constitutes non-licensable asbestos work is vital for creating a safe and compliant working environment. By properly differentiating between licensable and non-licensable tasks and making sure employees receive the right training, employers can effectively reduce risks and meet legal obligations.
Get in touch with NATAS to learn more about how our asbestos awareness courses can help your team stay safe and compliant and find out how to book.
