The UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA) was delighted to host international colleagues Guillermo Villamizar from Colombia and Tom Eriksen from Norway during a comprehensive two-day visit in December 2024. This collaborative initiative focused on advancing global asbestos management standards, sharing expertise, and strengthening international partnerships to improve safety practices and mitigate asbestos-related risks on a global scale.
The visit, hosted by UKATA Director Adam Harding and Chief Operating Officer Craig Evans, was designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the UK's leading asbestos management practices. Guillermo Villamizar, Director of Fundclas, and Tom Eriksen, CEO of Eriksen HazMat Survey AS and representative of the Norwegian Asbestforum, gained first-hand insights into how robust asbestos safety frameworks operate across removal, testing, and analysis sectors. The knowledge exchange aimed to inspire tailored solutions for tackling asbestos challenges in their respective countries.
A key highlight of the visit was a detailed site tour of an asbestos removal project led by Dan West, Director of WestCross Environmental Services Ltd, a prominent licensed asbestos removal contractor. WestCross Environmental Services showcased their exceptional capabilities in asbestos removal, encapsulation, decontamination, and survey services, offering a real-world demonstration of effective processes. The site visit emphasised not only the technical expertise but also the meticulous health and safety standards that underpin the UK's asbestos industry. Delegates praised the professionalism and specialist approach of the WestCross team, describing it as both insightful and inspiring.
The collaboration also featured an in-depth tour of the advanced laboratory facilities at Core Surveys Ltd, led by Director Jason Weeks and dedicated team members Sam and Craig. Core Surveys, renowned for delivering UKAS-accredited asbestos surveys, air testing, bulk sample analysis, consultancy, and training, provided a comprehensive demonstration of asbestos testing, analysis, and reporting processes. The tour underscored the critical role of laboratory analysis in asbestos management and showcased the innovative methods that ensure accuracy, reliability, and adherence to strict safety standards.
The visit extended beyond technical observations, facilitating meaningful discussions on the shared challenges faced by countries striving to improve asbestos safety. Topics included the importance of developing national frameworks, promoting public awareness, and enhancing the quality of training for professionals working with asbestos. By exploring best practices in the UK, Guillermo and Tom were able to gather actionable insights, tools, and strategies to implement in their respective countries.
Reflecting on the visit, Craig Evans, Chief Operating Officer of UKATA, remarked:
"It has been a fantastic opportunity to host our international colleagues. This exchange has highlighted the immense value of collaboration in tackling asbestos-related challenges. Guillermo and Tom leave with not only valuable insights but also practical ideas to strengthen asbestos safety frameworks in their countries. This is true global progress in action, where shared knowledge creates a safer future for all."
Tom Eriksen, CEO of Eriksen HazMat Survey AS, shared his thoughts:
"This experience has been immensely educational and inspiring. We met fantastic professionals who demonstrated exceptional knowledge and expertise. Continuous learning and collaboration are key to improving safety standards worldwide, and this visit has reinforced that. Thank you to UKATA and its partners for an extraordinary opportunity."
Guillermo Villamizar, Director of Fundclas, echoed similar sentiments, stating:
"The UK’s asbestos management practices are a global benchmark. This visit provided unparalleled insights that will guide our efforts to build safer frameworks in Colombia. We look forward to continued collaboration and knowledge sharing."
The two-day initiative emphasised UKATA's ongoing commitment to promoting global asbestos safety and supporting international partners in achieving the highest standards of asbestos management. As a leading training association with over 200 members delivering training across the UK, Europe, Asia, and South America, UKATA remains at the forefront of global efforts to raise awareness, educate professionals, and improve safety practices.
This international exchange marks another significant milestone in UKATA's mission to champion asbestos safety and awareness worldwide. By driving collaboration and sharing expertise, UKATA continues to set the standard for excellence in asbestos management and training.
About UKATA:
The UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA) is a leading authority in asbestos awareness, training, and safety management. Through its extensive network of approved members, UKATA sets and upholds the highest standards in asbestos training, contributing to the safety and wellbeing of workers, communities, and industries worldwide. UKATA remains dedicated to innovation, education, and collaboration to tackle the challenges of asbestos safety globally.
Published on Wednesday 18th December 2024