Asbestos legislation in Ireland is built in layers, from the broad duty of care in the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 down to the specific asbestos rules in CAR 2006 and the EU directives that shape them. Seen as separate pieces it can feel complicated; seen as a single system it makes sense.
This guide shows how those layers fit together to protect workers, so the individual duties you meet on site have a clear context. Understanding the whole picture makes compliance feel logical rather than arbitrary.
Key takeaways
- The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 sets the general duty of care.
- CAR 2006 (SI 386/2006) contains the asbestos-specific duties.
- EU directives, including 2023/2668, shape and tighten Irish asbestos law.
- Together the law requires training, risk assessment and management of ACMs.
- Workers must engage with training and follow safe systems of work.
The 2005 Act - the foundation
The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 sets the general duty for employers to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the safety, health and welfare of their workers. It is the foundation that everything else builds on, including the asbestos-specific rules. It also places duties on employees to take reasonable care and to cooperate with safety measures.
CAR 2006 - the specifics
The asbestos-specific duties live in CAR 2006 (SI 386/2006) and the 2010 amendment - identification of ACMs, assessment and control of exposure, and the provision of information, instruction and training. Where the 2005 Act sets the principle, CAR 2006 sets the detail for asbestos. The detail is covered in asbestos regulations explained.
Ready to get certified? Complete the Stay compliant with awareness training online in about 45 minutes for EUR 35 and download your Asbestos Awareness Certificate the moment you pass.
EU influence on Irish law
EU directives have long shaped Irish health and safety law, and asbestos is no exception. The recent Directive 2023/2668 is tightening the occupational exposure limit across the union, including in Ireland, and reinforcing the emphasis on training and controls. Irish law evolves to implement these directives, which is why staying current matters.
How it protects workers in practice
Together, this body of legislation requires that workers are trained, that risks are assessed before work, and that ACMs are identified and managed. For the individual worker, the law translates into concrete things: holding awareness training, checking the register, and following the safe system of work. Awareness training is how workers meet their part - start the Asbestos Awareness Course.
The worker's side of the law
Legislation is not only about employer duties. Workers have their own legal responsibilities - to engage with training, follow safe systems of work, use the protection provided, and not endanger themselves or others. These are set out in employee responsibilities, and meeting them is part of being a safe, professional tradesperson.
What this course does and does not cover
This online course builds awareness and understanding. It helps you recognise asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), understand the health risks, and follow the correct STOP - CHECK - REPORT response if you suspect asbestos during your work.
It does not authorise you to remove, survey, test, sample or deliberately disturb asbestos. Licensed asbestos removal, asbestos surveying and air testing each require separate, specialist qualifications. Employers may still need to provide task-specific training, supervision and a written risk assessment before any work near ACMs begins.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main asbestos law in Ireland?
CAR 2006 (SI 386/2006), sitting under the broader Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005.
How does EU law affect Ireland?
EU directives are implemented into Irish law; Directive 2023/2668 is lowering the asbestos exposure limit.
Does the law apply to small businesses?
Yes - the duties apply to any employer whose workers could be exposed to asbestos.
What is the worker's legal duty?
To engage with training, follow safe systems of work, use the protection provided, and not endanger themselves or others.
Is the legislation likely to change again?
Yes - it continues to evolve, particularly as the EU tightens exposure limits, which is why refresher training matters.
Related Asbestos Awareness guides
- Asbestos Regulations in Ireland Explained
- HSA Asbestos Guidance Explained
- Asbestos Employee Responsibilities in Ireland
- Asbestos Employer Responsibilities in Ireland
Start your Asbestos Awareness Training today
Join thousands of workers across Ireland who train with Irish Asbestos Awareness. Get your Asbestos Awareness Certificate online from any device, or train your whole team with bulk certificates and central reporting.
