Asbestos remains the single greatest cause of work-related deaths in Great Britain, and while the material has been banned since 1999, it still exists in millions of buildings. Now, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is seeking feedback on proposals that could enhance long-term protection for workers and the public.
In a call for evidence published on 10 November 2025, the HSE is inviting views on how asbestos is currently managed, with a view to updating regulations, guidance, and compliance practices in line with emerging risks and international best practice.
In this article, we’ll break down what the HSE is proposing, why it matters, and how these changes could affect duty holders, property managers, employers and contractors—especially those responsible for buildings built before 2000.
Why Is the HSE Reviewing Asbestos Management in 2025?
Although asbestos use was banned over two decades ago, its legacy remains a serious public health issue. According to HSE figures, around 5,000 asbestos-related deaths still occur each year in the UK, largely from past occupational exposure.
Now, as older buildings continue to deteriorate and renovation work increases, there is renewed concern about:
- Unidentified or poorly managed asbestos-containing materials (ACMs)
- Emerging risks during construction, refurbishment and demolition projects
- Inconsistent compliance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012
- The need to align with international standards, including proposed updates from the European Commission
The HSE has therefore launched a review to gather insights from those with experience of managing asbestos risks in real-world settings.
Key Areas Under Review
The HSE’s call for evidence is open until 10 February 2026 and invites input from a wide range of stakeholders including:
- Duty holders
- Asbestos surveyors and consultants
- Building owners and landlords
- Employers and safety professionals
- Trade unions and construction industry representatives
The review is focused on three primary areas:
1. The Ongoing Presence of Asbestos in Buildings
The HSE wants to better understand how ACMs are being managed, monitored and maintained across various sectors. This includes whether current asbestos surveys and management plans are effective, and how asbestos risks are tracked over time.
Explore our guide to asbestos management surveys for more on how ACMs should be documented and monitored.
2. Effectiveness of Current Regulations and Guidance
Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, duty holders must assess, manage and monitor asbestos risks. The HSE is asking whether:
- Existing regulations are clear and practical
- Guidance documents are up to date and widely understood
- Enforcement measures are sufficient
Crucial Environmental supports full compliance with these regulations through comprehensive asbestos surveys, testing, and removal services.
3. International Comparisons
The consultation will also explore how Great Britain’s asbestos management compares to systems used in other countries, particularly those within the EU. This includes examining:
- Proactive removal strategies vs. long-term management
- Periodic reassessments of known ACMs
- Mandatory training and certification for those working with or around asbestos
These insights will help the HSE decide whether to retain, amend or expand the current framework.
What Might Change as a Result?
While the consultation is still in its early stages, possible outcomes could include:
- Tighter rules on surveying and reinspection of asbestos in existing buildings
- Increased training requirements for duty holders and maintenance staff
- Stricter enforcement of asbestos registers and management plans
- New expectations for proactive asbestos removal in high-risk settings
For those responsible for buildings constructed before 2000, now is a good time to review your current asbestos strategy and ensure you’re fully compliant.
Not sure where to start? Contact Crucial Environmental for a compliance check or to schedule a survey.
HSE’s Call to Action: Share Your Experience
In launching the consultation, HSE Director of Policy, Andrew Curran, emphasised that the review is intended to ensure the UK’s approach to asbestos continues to reflect current challenges and emerging knowledge.
“We want to hear from anyone who has duties under the current regulations or practical experience of managing asbestos. This call for evidence will allow us to gather valuable insight into how the system is working and where improvements could be made.”
Those interested in submitting evidence or views can do so through the official consultation page on the HSE website.
What Should Duty Holders and Employers Do Now?
While no regulatory changes have been implemented yet, duty holders should use this opportunity to:
- Review your existing asbestos surveys and registers
- Ensure your asbestos management plan is current and accurate
- Confirm staff have received up-to-date asbestos awareness training
- Plan any necessary refurbishment and demolition surveys ahead of intrusive works
- Consult with professionals to ensure ongoing compliance
If your last asbestos inspection is out of date, or your building has undergone changes since the last survey, it’s essential to schedule a review. You may also wish to arrange asbestos testing if materials have deteriorated or been disturbed.
Key Takeaways – HSE’s Asbestos Management Review 2025–26
- HSE has launched a call for evidence to review how asbestos is managed in GB
- The consultation is open until 10 February 2026
- The review focuses on ACM presence, regulation effectiveness, and international best practice
- Potential changes may affect survey frequency, training, and compliance duties
- Duty holders should review their asbestos documentation and procedures now
Conclusion: A Chance to Improve Asbestos Safety in the UK
The HSE’s 2025 review of asbestos management is a timely and important initiative. With many buildings in the UK still containing asbestos and renovation activity on the rise, the risk of exposure remains very real. This consultation gives stakeholders across all sectors a chance to shape the future of asbestos safety and ensure stronger protection for workers, tenants, and the public.
At Crucial Environmental, we’re committed to supporting safe, effective asbestos management. From surveys and testing to licensed removal and ongoing compliance support, we help clients across the UK meet their legal responsibilities and protect those in and around their properties.
You can read the full HSE announcement here:
HSE seeks views on proposals to enhance worker and public protection from asbestos exposure
Get in touch today to book a survey, discuss your compliance needs, or learn how potential regulation changes may affect you.