An asbestos risk assessment is the document that turns awareness into action - it decides whether work can go ahead, and under exactly what controls. Without it, even a well-meaning crew is working blind. In Ireland, CAR 2006 makes risk assessment a legal duty before any work that could disturb asbestos, not an optional extra.
This guide explains what the assessment must cover, who is responsible for it, and how it works alongside awareness training to keep people safe. The two are complementary: the assessment sets the controls, and trained workers carry them out.
Key takeaways
- CAR 2006 makes a risk assessment a legal duty before work that could disturb asbestos.
- The assessment must be suitable, sufficient and reviewed when things change.
- It covers whether ACMs are present, the likely exposure, and the controls needed.
- The employer and duty holder are responsible, drawing on competent advice.
- A risk assessment only works if trained workers recognise ACMs and follow the controls.
What the law requires
Under CAR 2006 (the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Exposure to Asbestos) Regulations 2006, SI 386/2006), employers must assess the risk of exposure before work begins where asbestos may be present, and put suitable controls in place. The assessment must be suitable and sufficient for the actual work, and it must be reviewed whenever circumstances change - a new building, a different method, or new information about ACMs. It is not a one-off form filed and forgotten; it is a living judgement about a specific job.
What a good assessment covers
A meaningful asbestos risk assessment addresses:
- Whether ACMs are or may be present, using the asbestos survey and register
- The likelihood, type and extent of exposure during the planned work
- The controls needed to prevent or, where that is not possible, minimise exposure
- The training, PPE, RPE and procedures required for the people doing the work
- The emergency arrangements if asbestos is unexpectedly disturbed
Ready to get certified? Complete the Support your risk assessment with training online in about 45 minutes for EUR 35 and download your Asbestos Awareness Certificate the moment you pass.
Who is responsible
The employer and duty holder are responsible for ensuring the assessment is done, drawing on competent advice where the situation is complex. Workers, in turn, must follow the resulting safe system of work and raise concerns if conditions on site differ from what was assessed. The duties on each side are set out in employer responsibilities and employee responsibilities.
How awareness training fits in
A risk assessment is only effective if the people on the ground can recognise ACMs and understand why the controls matter. A worker who cannot spot asbestos insulating board will not realise when the assessment\'s assumptions have been broken. That recognition and discipline is exactly what the Asbestos Awareness Course delivers, which is why training and risk assessment are treated as two halves of the same duty.
When the assessment must be reviewed
An assessment should be reviewed whenever the work changes, the building or its asbestos register changes, an incident occurs, or new guidance is published - for example as Ireland implements the tighter exposure limits under EU Directive 2023/2668. Treating the assessment as fixed is a common failing; keeping it current is what keeps it valid.
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
Is an asbestos risk assessment legally required?
Yes - CAR 2006 requires a suitable and sufficient assessment before any work that could expose anyone to asbestos.
Who carries out the risk assessment?
The employer or duty holder, with competent advice where the situation is complex.
How often is it reviewed?
Whenever the work, the building or the information about ACMs changes, after any incident, and periodically as good practice.
Does awareness training replace a risk assessment?
No - training supports the assessment but does not replace it. Both are required.
What happens if conditions differ from the assessment?
Work should stop and the assessment be reviewed before continuing - the original controls may no longer be valid.
Related Asbestos Awareness guides
- Asbestos Employer Responsibilities in Ireland
- The Asbestos Management Plan Explained
- Asbestos Regulations in Ireland Explained
- Asbestos Control Measures for Workers
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.
