UKATA was pleased to attend and sponsor the 2025 NORAC Asbestos Conference and Awards, held on 17 September in the Marriot Victoria & Albert Hotel, Manchester.
The conference featured CPD-accredited sessions, opportunities for peer networking and expert-led discussions covering a wide range of topics, from legal responsibilities to international case studies.
Among the standout moments was an emotionally powerful talk from mesothelioma patient David Staley, who shared his deeply personal journey of living with an asbestos-related illness for over a decade. Meanwhile, Adam Rennie from Environmental Essentials brought a global perspective with a compelling presentation on building an asbestos removal team in The Gambia, showcasing the life-changing impact of training and education overseas.
The conference also featured insightful updates from The Health & Safety Executive and legal and regulatory guidance from recognised experts, emphasising the evolving challenges and responsibilities facing professionals in the field today.
UKATA staff actively participated in the conference with an exhibition stand, presenting the range of training, membership, associate and partnership options available. They engaged in meaningful networking with potential clients, sparking interest in joining as new members and exploring the benefits of UKATA's offerings.
In the evening, the industry came together for the inaugural NORAC Awards, a prestigious three-course gala celebrating innovation and leadership within the sector. UKATA was proud to sponsor one of the evening’s most memorable award categories:“The Most Unusual Asbestos Discovery.”
The award highlighted just how unpredictable and widespread asbestos risks can be. Each of the finalists revealed a unique and remarkable discovery but one stood out for its rarity and the skill involved in its identification. The award was presented to Michael McCourt, Asbestos Technician at Asbestos Consultants Europe Ltd for his outstanding attention to detail, which led to the discovery of asbestos gaskets hidden within door opening restrictors, an undocumented hazard being disturbed in a live environment. His find not only protected those in the building but also offered valuable insight for the wider industry.
UKATA Chief Operating Officer, Craig Evans reflects on the success of the day: “It was a fantastic event - insightful, moving, and filled with moments that brought our industry together. We were especially pleased to sponsor an award that combined humour with a powerful message: asbestos can still surprise us, and we must always stay vigilant.”
UKATA Charity Partners Mesothelioma UK were also present at the event, CEO Liz Darlison said: "Congratulations to those who were nominated and a special congratulations to the four winners. David Staley captivated the audience with his story and his unimaginable achievements in support of Mesothelioma UK.
"The event was a showcase of the best of British from the asbestos management industry. Well done NORAC, it was a most informative event and a real pleasure to attend. Thank you for inviting Mesothelioma UK to be part of it."
UKATA congratulates all those who contributed to making NORAC 2025 such a success and looks forward to building on the momentum of this notable event.
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 National Organisation of Asbestos Consultants (NORAC) has been established in response to the growing number of asbestos professionals in asbestos surveying, testing and analytical sector that seek to enhance their knowledge and raise standards. Membership is encouraged from independent companies, local authorities, sole traders and clients that seek to enhance their knowledge and share their experiences. Their goals are to improve technical knowledge in all aspects of asbestos consultancy and raise the profile of its members.
Mesothelioma UK are the national charity dedicated to supporting those affected by mesothelioma, a cancer linked to asbestos exposure. The charity provides specialist nursing care, supports research, and aims to raise awareness to prevent future generations from being affected by mesothelioma. Mesothelioma UK also offers free advice, information, and support services for patients, carers, and healthcare professionals.
Published on Tuesday 23rd September 2025