HSE Launches Consultation to Strengthen the Control of Asbestos Regulations: What Employers Need to Know.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has opened a major consultation aimed at improving how the Control of Asbestos Regulations (CAR) are implemented across Great Britain. The proposed changes are designed to enhance asbestos management, strengthen worker protection, and ensure buildings remain safe for occupants.
Asbestos continues to be the leading cause of work-related deaths in the UK, with more than 5,000 fatalities each year. Despite the UK having one of the strongest safety records in Europe, asbestos still poses a significant risk in older buildings, construction environments, and refurbishment work. The new consultation aims to address gaps in current practice and ensure regulations remain robust, proportionate, and effective.
🔍 Why the HSE Is Updating Asbestos Regulations
The goal of this consultation is to gather professional insight and improve the way asbestos risks are assessed, surveyed, and managed. The proposals focus on raising standards, reducing exposure, and ensuring dutyholders understand their legal responsibilities.
This consultation is particularly relevant for:
- Employers and dutyholders
- Asbestos surveyors
- Asbestos removal contractors
- Facilities managers
- Construction and refurbishment teams
- Asbestos analysts and laboratory professionals
⚠️ Key Proposals in the HSE Asbestos Consultation
The HSE is seeking views on three major changes:
1. Strengthening the Four-Stage Clearance Process
The HSE proposes reinforcing the independence and impartiality of the individuals responsible for the clearance procedure after asbestos removal. The aim is to ensure:
- More reliable clearance testing
- Reduced risk of residual asbestos exposure
- Greater confidence for employers, workers, and building users
This proposal is expected to raise standards and boost the consistency of post-removal checks.
2. Improving the Quality of Asbestos Surveys
Accurate surveys are crucial for safe asbestos management. The consultation seeks to address:
- Inconsistencies in survey quality
- Poor reporting standards
- Misclassification or missed ACMs (Asbestos-Containing Materials)
Better survey accuracy ensures dutyholders can make informed decisions, improving both compliance and safety outcomes.
3. Clarifying Notifiable Non-Licensed Work (NNLW)
Many dutyholders remain unclear on when asbestos work is classified as NNLW. The HSE aims to:
- Provide clearer definitions
- Reduce confusion around notification requirements
- Prevent accidental non-compliance
Clearer guidance will help employers avoid breaches and protect workers more effectively.
📢 Expert Commentary from HSE
Rick Brunt, HSE’s Director of Engagement and Policy, emphasised the importance of these changes:
“Asbestos remains a significant risk to workers in Great Britain. While progress has been made, these proposals represent an important step towards strengthening protections for workers and the public.”
Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disability, further highlighted the necessity of improved asbestos management:
“Asbestos remains the biggest cause of work-related deaths in the UK. This consultation aims to improve the regulations and enhance protection for both workers and the public.”
🕒 Consultation Deadline & How to Respond
The consultation is open until 9 January 2026.
Professionals can view the full proposals and submit responses via the HSE consultation page.
🧰 Why This Matters for Employers and Dutyholders
These proposed changes signal a major shift in how asbestos needs to be managed across workplaces and public buildings. Organisations should begin reviewing:
- Existing asbestos surveys
- Management plans
- Internal competency and training
- Clearance processes
- Contractor selection procedures
Being proactive will help businesses stay compliant, reduce risk, and protect staff more effectively as regulations evolve.
⭐ Summary
The HSE’s consultation on the Control of Asbestos Regulations marks an important step in reducing asbestos exposure risks. With proposed improvements to the clearance process, survey standards, and NNLW clarity, employers have a valuable opportunity to contribute to stronger, clearer, and more effective regulations.
