The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006

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Asbestos has been the main cause of occupational ill health from about 1950 onwards and is still the greatest single work-related cause of death from ill health.

Past exposure is now responsible for about 4000 people dying from asbestosrelated cancers every year. This figure is expected to rise over the next ten years and then decline.

These deaths are tragic for the people involved, causing immense pain and suffering to them and their relatives, friends and colleagues.

Safety representatives play an important role in controlling workplace risks and can help to prevent exposure to asbestos. You are entitled to be provided with any information you need on asbestos, including any risk assessments and surveys. You should also be consulted on your employer’s plans to manage asbestos.

This is a brief guide for safety representatives on asbestos and the new Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006 (the Regulations). It does not cover the legal functions of safety representatives.