Today marks the start of the 21st annual Global Asbestos Awareness Week (GAAW).
Running from April 1st to April 7th, this worldwide campaign, led by the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO), aims to educate the public on the enduring dangers of asbestos and the vital importance of prevention.
At HF, with our multi-disciplinary reach across Electrical, Mechanical, and Fire & Security sectors, we understand that asbestos isn’t just a “legacy” issue, it is a current safety priority.
Why Awareness Still Matters
While asbestos has been banned in the UK for over two decades, it remains a significant risk in the renovation and maintenance of older buildings. Globally, over 200,000 people die each year from asbestos-related illnesses. Because these diseases often have a long latency period, the safety protocols we follow today are what protect our engineers and our clients for decades to come.
As an organisation that operates in diverse environments, from historic Glasgow tenements to large-scale industrial sites in Manchester and Belfast, we remain committed to the highest standards of occupational health.
The HF Commitment
Safety is the cornerstone of everything we do. Whether our teams are installing new fire alarm systems or maintaining complex electrical infrastructure, we ensure:
Rigorous Training: Our engineers are trained to identify and report potential asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) immediately.
Strict Compliance: We work in total alignment with UK Health & Safety regulations to ensure zero exposure.
Integrity in Action: We believe that every worker has the right to return home safely, and that starts with respecting the hidden dangers within the “fabric” of our built environment.
Working Together for a Safer Future
We are proud to support Global Asbestos Awareness Week and encourage our clients, partners, and staff to take this week to refresh their knowledge and reaffirm their commitment to a safer, asbestos-free future.