I recall a lively thread a while ago on AAT regarding content, frequency, competence of the trainer, refreshers, suitability of TBTs, etc. So whilst I was reading some recent HSE guidance on AAT I came across this gem below. 'Information instruction and training on asbestos awareness is merely intended to help workers avoid carrying out work that will disturb asbestos. There is no legal requirement to repeat an entire formal awareness refresher training course every 12 months. However some form of refresher should be given, as necessary, to help ensure knowledge of asbestos awareness is maintained.' 'Refresher awareness could be given as e-learning or as part of other health and safety updates, rather than through a formal training course. For example, an employer, manager or supervisor who has attended an awareness course and who is competent to do so, could deliver an update or safety talk to employees in house.' HSE dumbing down or being sensible?

Well I suppose HSE are just saying how it is, it's not a "..... legal requirement to repeat an entire formal awareness refresher training course every 12 months." In my AAT I do the initial full blown 1.5 hours of training explaining regulations in detail, what duty holders should be doing, lots of photos, samples of asbestos material (in double bags :o), what to do if exposed to suspect material (wet cloths or shower?) with a flowchart hand-out, and a 15 question test. Now, because my attendees are very unlikely to be exposed (them usually having very responsible clients) I feel a good refresher course is essential as much of the initial course could be forgotten. The refresher course can last 20 minutes, with a new summary hand-out to go through, and the flowchart again, and they have to do the test again.

Cheers Ray