The Health and Safety Executive has launched a consultation seeking feedback on proposed changes designed to strengthen the Control of Asbestos Regulations and improve guidance on Asbestos Management. 

The aim is to enhance safety for workers, building occupants and anyone involved in managing asbestos.

The UK already has one of the strongest workplace health and safety records in the world, with some of the lowest rates of occupational injury and fatalities in Europe. These proposals build on this strong foundation to further protect people in areas where asbestos remains a significant risk.

The consultation focuses on three main areas:

• Independent Clearance Checks: Ensuring roles in the four-stage clearance process are impartial to reduce exposure risks.
• Better Asbestos Surveys: Improving guidance so dutyholders understand the importance of surveys and can commission them from competent professionals.
• Clarifying NNLW: Clearer guidance on what counts as Notifiable Non-Licensed Work.

The HSE is inviting views from contractors, building owners, employers and others working with or managing asbestos. The consultation is open until 9 January 2026, and the full document, including detailed proposals and guidance on how to respond, is available on the HSE website.