New online course aims to protect NSW workers from Asbestos exposure

New Online Course Aims to Protect NSW Workers From Asbestos Exposure

SafeWork NSW has launched a new online course to train workers on how to protect themselves from asbestos exposure. Designed for anyone who may encounter asbestos on the job, this free online asbestos awareness course equips workers, supervisors, and site staff with practical knowledge to identify and manage risks before harm occurs.

Who Developed This Course?

SafeWork NSW partnered with the Office of the Building Commissioner, NSW Environment Protection Authority, and Local Government NSW to roll out the interactive asbestos awareness training during National Asbestos Awareness Week. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment across regulators to reduce asbestos-related harm in building and construction environments.

Why This Training Matters

Approximately 4,000 Australians die from asbestos-related diseases every year, according to SafeWork NSW. Many of these deaths stem from exposure that could have been prevented with proper awareness and controls.

Construction sites, older buildings, and renovation projects across Sydney and regional NSW often contain legacy asbestos materials. Without adequate knowledge, workers in construction trades face heightened dangers when disturbing these materials during demolition, refurbishment, or maintenance work.

What Does the Course Cover?

“The online short course covers the identification of asbestos containing products, safe handling, control measures, the health impacts of asbestos exposure and more,” SafeWork NSW said.

Key topics include:

• Identifying asbestos-containing products in residential and commercial settings
• Safe handling techniques and control measures
• Health impacts linked to asbestos exposure
• Practical steps for reporting and managing suspected asbestos

Who Should Complete This Course?

SafeWork NSW encourages all workers who are likely to be exposed to asbestos to complete this online course. This includes tradespeople, construction crews, facility managers, and anyone working near ageing infrastructure where asbestos may remain undetected.

Employers across construction and building maintenance sectors can use this training as a foundational safety resource, supplementing broader asbestos management plans already in place at their worksites.

Access the Course

SafeWork NSW's free online course is available now, offering a practical starting point for anyone seeking to understand asbestos dangers and reduce workplace risk. Read more about how this initiative also aims to protect the wider public from asbestos exposure.

For organisations managing broader workplace hazards, SafetyDocs also provides resources covering related risks, including new regulations protecting workers from crystalline silica dust exposure and updated workplace harassment protections, helping construction and building sector employers stay ahead of evolving compliance requirements.