Keynote speaker from HSE insists asbestos workers must be trained and competent
The UK Asbestos Training Association’s (UKATA’s) fourth Annual General Meeting at Aston Villa Football Club on 18 May was the Association’s most successful yet. A record number of members heard senior keynote speaker Dr Martin Gibson from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reaffirm the importance of proper training when it comes to working with asbestos.
As HM Principal Specialist Inspector for the HSE, Dr Gibson’s address covered the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. The attendance of such a senior HSE official confirms UKATA’s role in the marketplace as the authoritative source of advice when it comes to UK asbestos training.
Dr Gibson outlined the current situation in terms of regulations from both the EU and the UK and used his address to explain that the HSE is not planning any significant additional Enforcement activity for new categories of asbestos work. New guidelines have been designed to drive home the message on asbestos, and while the overriding message is that common sense should prevail, the onus has been placed on Approved Contractors to determine whether asbestos work is Notifiable or not.
“The Board of Directors were delighted to secure such a high profile and prominent speaker from HSE for our keynote address, and I’m sure I speak on behalf of all who attended in thanking Dr Gibson for his time and invaluable insight into the current state of play in the asbestos industry,” said UKATA Technical and Operations Manager Terry Barker. “We all understand the importance of the highest standards when it comes to asbestos training, and it was important to hear the HSE spell out that those who carry out work must be trained and competent to do so, which UKATA is committed to helping facilitate. As ever, when it comes to asbestos, the precautionary principle should prevail.”
This latest UKATA AGM comes at a pivotal moment for the Association, as it responds to a growing membership base and embarks on a search for a permanent Chief Executive.
UKATA is a leading authority in asbestos training in the UK, a privileged position that has only been achieved by a tremendous amount of hard work, dedication and a focus on Quality and Standards. UKATA now has over 130 fee paying Members with many more Membership applications pending and Dr Gibson’s address was a timely reminder that forthcoming legislation is likely to mean demand for Training and Consultancy services offered by Members will increase.
“This AGM is further proof of UKATA’s growing recognition as the market leader in promoting best practice among asbestos training providers,” said UKATA Chairman Mike Smith. “Our 40% growth in membership tells its own story and Dr Gibson’s attendance and the earlier success of the training pledge initiative demonstrates that we can work together with the HSE and take the lead on key asbestos training initiatives.”
UKATA members include both large and small, commercial and non-commercial training providers and the Associations objectives going forward are to continue to grow while servicing the diverse needs of its members and their aspirations for the future of asbestos training.
UKATA is always keen to talk to prospective Members who are 100% committed to the highest professional standards. For further information on UKATA, visit www.ukata.org.uk
ENDS
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Published on Friday 1st June 2012