UKATA is proud to support Global Asbestos Awareness Week (#GAAW25), which takes place annually
from 1 - 7 April.
Now in its 21st year, GAAW is a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of asbestos and advocating for preventive measures by uniting experts and victims worldwide to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and drive meaningful action.
Despite the UK banning asbestos use and importation in 1999, it remains a significant public health challenge. Asbestos is still present in over 1.5 million buildings throughout the UK, including homes, schools, and workplaces. When disturbed or damaged, asbestos can release hazardous fibres that pose life-threatening risks.
According to the latest Health and Safety Executive (HSE) statistics, asbestos-related diseases continue to take a devastating toll. Asbestos is responsible for over 5000 deaths every year in the UK alone. Inhalation of asbestos fibres can cause cancers such as mesothelioma and lung cancer, and other serious lung diseases such as asbestosis and pleural thickening. . These sobering numbers underline the critical importance of education and training to prevent exposure.
Victoria Castelluccio, UKATA Events & Marketing Manager says “UKATA is committed to raising asbestos awareness throughout the UK and globally. UKATA members offer training across the globe, allowing individuals to gain access to the knowledge they need to protect themselves and others.”
The 2025 Global Asbestos Awareness Week will focus on key priorities, including advocating for a worldwide ban on the mining, manufacturing, and use of all six types of asbestos fibres. It aims to prevent asbestos exposure, improve compliance with and enforcement of existing laws and regulations, and strengthen international partnerships to protect public health.
UKATA emphasises the legal obligation for anyone who may encounter asbestos in their work to receive proper information, instruction, and training. Ensuring this is critical to safeguarding lives.
Global Asbestos Awareness Week is a reminder that while asbestos remains a global issue, knowledge and prevention are powerful tools in combating asbestos-related illnesses. UKATA invites all individuals, organisations, and industries to join the effort to protect lives and work towards a future free from asbestos-related risks.
Throughout the week, UKATA will raise awareness on social media and encourage members and industry associates across the country to join in spreading knowledge about the dangers of asbestos and the diseases caused by exposure.
UKATA, a leading association, is dedicated to enhancing the quality and standards of asbestos training with the aim to shield workers and the public from the hazards of asbestos exposure.
The association collaborates closely with its members to guarantee that they have access to the latest information, training resources, and industry updates. They provide a suite of support services to assist them in accomplishing their training objectives. Their membership encompasses a diverse array of organisations involved in asbestos training, including training providers, asbestos removal contractors, consultants, and equipment suppliers.
UKATA is fervent about promoting safe and responsible working practices, committed to working with members and partners to realise a shared vision of protecting workers and the public from the hazards linked with asbestos exposure.
Published on Tuesday 11th March 2025