Asbestos removal operative

What does an asbestos removal operative do?

As an asbestos removal operative, you will be responsible for safely removing asbestos from renovation and demolition sites. You will need to work with Health and Safety Executive (HSE) licensed asbestos removal contractors. These organisations have to apply to the HSE for a licence to undertake work with asbestos in a tightly controlled environment.

The role of an asbestos removal operative involves the following duties: 

How to become an asbestos removal operative

There are several routes to becoming an asbestos removal operative. You could complete a college course, an apprenticeship or on-the-job training.

You should explore these routes to becoming an asbestos removal operative, to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions. 

You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site. 

College/training provider

While there are no set qualifications required to become an asbestos removal operative, having GCSEs (or equivalent) in maths and English can be beneficial. 

You will need to have specialist training in asbestos removal and complete a course approved by the UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA) once you are working.

• Equivalent entry requirements explained
• Find a course near you
• Funding advice

Apprenticeship

You could complete an apprenticeship to become an asbestos removal operative.

You could become an apprentice demolition operative if you are over 18. At 16, you could start as a construction plant operative and specialise in asbestos removal once you are qualified. 

Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you will be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.

• Guide to apprenticeships

Work

If you have some basic experience as a demolition or construction worker, your employer may nominate you to undergo specific training for the removal of asbestos.

This training must be compliant with current Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines. In most cases, working with asbestos also requires a licence, issued by the HSE. 

You might start out as an assistant to a more experienced asbestos removal operative and progress as your abilities improve.

Work experience

Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as an asbestos removal operative. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.

• Find out more about work experience

Skills 

Additional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as an asbestos removal operative include: 

• Specialist training in asbestos removal
• Logical thinking skills
• Good team working skills
• Awareness of health and safety.

How much could you earn as an asbestos removal operative?

The expected salary for an asbestos removal operative varies as you become more experienced.

Salaries depend on location, employer, level of responsibility, any overtime you may do, and whether you have completed and industry recognised training route.