UKATA is supporting Global Asbestos Awareness Week 2026, running from 1–7 April, in partnership with The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organisation (ADAO) to raise awareness of the ongoing dangers of asbestos and the importance of prevention and safe working practices,
Despite asbestos being banned in the UK more than 25 years ago, asbestos‑related diseases continue to take a devastating toll, with World Health Organisation statistics showing an estimated 200,000 annual deaths each year globally and symptoms that often do not appear until decades after exposure.
Asbestos can still be present in buildings constructed or refurbished before 2000 and may be disturbed during maintenance, renovation or demolition work, creating a significant risk to workers and the public.
Tradespeople are among those most likely to encounter asbestos in their day‑to‑day work, while those responsible for non‑domestic buildings including offices, schools, factories and public facilities have a legal duty to manage asbestos risks safely. Global Asbestos Awareness Week is a timely reminder to remain vigilant, understand where asbestos may be present, and take the appropriate precautions to prevent exposure.
UKATA continues to play a key role in improving global understanding of asbestos risk through the establishment and maintenance of high‑quality training standards. UKATA sets internationally recognised standards for asbestos awareness and safety training and works with a network of approved training providers who deliver these standards across multiple regions worldwide.
With nearly 200 approved members delivering UKATA approved asbestos training, organisations in regions including the UK, Europe, and South America form part of a growing global community committed to improving competency in asbestos risk management and awareness.
The campaign is also supported by UKATA Charity partner Mesothelioma UK. It can be followed on social media using the hashtag #2026GAAW and provides an important opportunity to reinforce the value of education, proactive risk management, and awareness wherever asbestos may be encountered.
2026 GAAW Daily Themes:
- Day One: Ignite the Movement: Legacy, Facts, and Cancer Prevention
- Day Two: Global Asbestos Crisis: The Human Cost of Inaction
- Day Three: Inspire Change: Art, Advocacy, and Action
- Day Four: Demand Justice: Prevention Through Law and Policy
- Day Five: Unite Globally: Workers, Health, and Safety
- Day Six: Empower Prevention: Technology for Global Access
- Day Seven: Virtual Candlelight Vigil to Honour and Remember Asbestos Victims Worldwide
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.
The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organisation (ADAO) was founded by Linda Reinstein and Doug Larkin in 2004 and headquartered in Redondo Beach, California. ADAO is the largest independent 501(c)(3) non profit in the U.S. dedicated to preventing asbestos exposure, eliminating asbestos-related diseases, and protecting asbestos victims’ civil rights through education, advocacy, and community initiatives.
Published on Wednesday 1st April 2026