Britain consults on further tightening asbestos regulations

The consultation, which runs until 9 January 2026, seeks views on measures designed to enhance worker and building user protection from asbestos exposure. While Great Britain already records some of the lowest rates of occupational injury and fatality in Europe, the HSE said the proposals aim to “build on this strong foundation” in areas where asbestos remains a serious health risk.

Three key changes are under consideration: ensuring independence and impartiality in the four-stage clearance process following asbestos removal; improving the quality of asbestos surveys so dutyholders have more reliable information on risks; and clarifying the type of work that constitutes work with asbestos, known as Notifiable Non-Licensed Work (NNLW).

The consultation is relevant to asbestos analysts, surveyors, removal contractors, dutyholders, and professionals across construction and facilities management and responses can be submitted via the HSE website.

Blue and brown asbestos have been banned in the UK since 1985. The ban was extended to include white asbestos in 1999.

Globally, more than 200,000 deaths are estimated to have been caused by occupational exposure to asbestos, more than 70% of all deaths from work-related cancers, according to the World Health Organisation.