Not all asbestos work falls into either the licensed or non-licensed category. Some activities are classed as Notifiable Non-Licensed Work (NNLW), which sits between the two and is subject to additional requirements despite not requiring a licensed asbestos contractor.
Understanding what qualifies as NNLW is important for ensuring asbestos work is carried out safely and in accordance with current regulations. It also helps duty holders, property owners and contractors understand when additional notification, training and record-keeping requirements may apply.
What Is Notifiable Non-Licensed Work (NNLW)?
Notifiable Non-Licensed Work (NNLW) is a category of asbestos work that sits between licensed and standard non-licensed asbestos work.
Although it doesn’t require a contractor to hold an HSE asbestos licence, it involves a higher level of risk than typical non-licensed activities and is subject to additional legal requirements.
In many cases, NNLW involves work where asbestos-containing materials are more likely to release fibres if disturbed, but the level of risk is not high enough for the work to be classed as licensed.
As a result, the work must still be carried out using appropriate control measures and in accordance with current asbestos regulations.
When Does Asbestos Work Become NNLW?
Whether asbestos work is classed as Notifiable Non-Licensed Work depends on the overall level of risk involved. There is no single factor that determines the classification. Instead, several considerations are taken into account before work begins.
Type of Asbestos Material
Some asbestos-containing materials present a greater risk than others due to the way they are manufactured and how easily they can release fibres when disturbed. The type of material is one of the key factors considered when determining whether work falls into the NNLW category.
Condition of the Material
The condition of the asbestos-containing material is also important. Materials that are damaged, deteriorating or showing signs of wear may present a greater risk than those that remain intact and in good condition.
Nature of the Work
The type of work being carried out can also influence the classification. Maintenance, repair, removal and other activities that involve disturbing asbestos-containing materials may present different levels of risk depending on the extent of the work involved.
Likelihood of Fibre Release
One of the most important considerations is the potential for asbestos fibres to become airborne during the work. Where there is an increased likelihood of fibre release, additional control measures may be required and the work may be classed as NNLW.
Rather than relying on a single factor, asbestos work is classified by considering the material, its condition, the proposed work and the potential for fibre release together. A suitable assessment should always be carried out before work begins to determine the most appropriate approach.
What Are the Requirements for NNLW?
Although Notifiable Non-Licensed Work does not require a licensed asbestos contractor, it is still subject to additional requirements that go beyond standard non-licensed asbestos work.
Before work begins, the relevant enforcing authority should be notified where the work is classed as Notifiable Non-Licensed Work.
Those carrying out the work must also have appropriate asbestos training and follow suitable control measures to minimise the risk of asbestos fibre release.
Depending on the nature of the work, additional requirements may also apply, including medical surveillance for workers and maintaining records of the work undertaken. These measures help ensure asbestos work is carried out safely while meeting the relevant legal requirements.
Because the requirements for NNLW can vary depending on the circumstances, it is important that the work is correctly assessed before it begins.
How Is NNLW Different from Licensed and Non-Licensed Work?
Licensed, non-licensed and notifiable non-licensed asbestos work are all determined by the level of risk involved, but each category has different requirements.
Licensed asbestos work involves the highest-risk asbestos-containing materials and activities. Because of the greater potential for asbestos fibre release, the work must be carried out by a contractor licensed by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
Standard non-licensed asbestos work generally involves lower-risk materials that are less likely to release fibres when handled correctly. In most cases, this type of work does not require notification before it begins.
Notifiable Non-Licensed Work sits between the two. While an HSE licence is not required, the work involves a higher level of risk than standard non-licensed activities.
As a result, it must be notified before work begins and is subject to additional requirements, including training, medical surveillance and record keeping where applicable.
Who Decides Whether Work Is NNLW?
Determining whether asbestos work falls into the NNLW category requires a suitable assessment before work begins. The classification should be based on the specific circumstances of the work rather than assumptions about the material alone.
The assessment will typically consider information gathered from asbestos surveys, material assessments and asbestos risk assessments, alongside factors such as the condition of the asbestos-containing material, the proposed work and the likelihood of fibre release.
Where there is any uncertainty, professional advice should always be sought. A qualified asbestos professional can assess the work, determine the correct classification and recommend the most appropriate approach to ensure the work is carried out safely and in accordance with current regulations.
Why Choose Malrod?
Understanding how asbestos work should be classified is an important part of managing asbestos safely. Since 1975, Malrod has been helping property owners and duty holders assess asbestos risks and ensure work is carried out in accordance with current regulations.
Here’s why clients across the UK choose Malrod:
- Nearly 50 years of experience in asbestos management and removal
- Qualified asbestos professionals with extensive industry knowledge
- Support with asbestos surveys, risk assessments and asbestos removal
- Licensed asbestos removal services where required
- Nationwide coverage for domestic, commercial and industrial properties
- Family-run business built on professionalism, reliability and customer service
Whether you need advice on licensed, non-licensed or notifiable non-licensed asbestos work, our experienced team is here to help.
Need Advice on Asbestos Work Classification?
If you’re unsure whether asbestos work is classed as licensed, non-licensed or notifiable non-licensed, our experienced team is here to help.
We provide asbestos surveys, risk assessments and professional advice to help property owners and duty holders ensure asbestos work is carried out safely and in accordance with current regulations.
To discuss your requirements, call us today on 01942 811591 or complete our contact form and a member of our team will be in touch.
Notifiable Non-Licensed Work FAQs
What does NNLW stand for?
NNLW stands for Notifiable Non-Licensed Work. It is a category of asbestos work that does not require an HSE licence but is subject to additional requirements, including notification, training and record keeping.
Does NNLW require a licensed asbestos contractor?
No. NNLW does not require a contractor to hold an HSE asbestos licence. However, the work must still be carried out by appropriately trained personnel using suitable control measures.
Who must notify notifiable non-licensed work?
The employer responsible for the asbestos work must ensure the relevant enforcing authority is notified before NNLW begins.
How is NNLW different from licensed asbestos work?
Licensed asbestos work involves the highest-risk materials and activities and must be carried out by a licensed contractor. NNLW involves a lower level of risk but still requires notification and additional control measures.
Does asbestos cement count as NNLW?
Not always. Some work involving asbestos cement may be classed as standard non-licensed work, while other activities could fall into the NNLW category depending on the condition of the material, the work being carried out and the likelihood of fibre release.
Who decides whether asbestos work is notifiable?
The classification should be determined through a suitable assessment that considers the type and condition of the asbestos-containing material, the proposed work and the level of risk involved. Where there is any uncertainty, professional advice should be sought.