Asbestos
Medicals
All employers have a legal duty under the Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA) to establish whether there is a risk to employees from asbestos and employers must ensure that they comply with the Control of Asbestos Regulations (CAR) 2012, failure to do so may result in fines or imprisonment.
Depending upon your risk assessment and method statement (RAMS), you should ensure that staff have been provided with appropriate information, training, and instruction to manage the workplace risks associated with any potential asbestos exposure and that you undertake the required health surveillance as below.
What is an Asbestos Medical Assessment?
An asbestos medical assessment is a health evaluation conducted to detect and monitor any potential health issues caused by asbestos exposure. It typically includes a review of the individual’s medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as chest X-rays and lung function tests.
The assessment aims to identify conditions like asbestosis, lung cancer, or mesothelioma, which can develop from prolonged asbestos exposure. These assessments are often required for individuals who have worked in environments where asbestos was present, ensuring early detection and appropriate medical care if necessary.
Why are asbestos medicals important?
Asbestos was widely used in the past because of its heat and chemical resistance used extensively in a wide variety of industries including construction and heavy industry, however asbestos was banned from use in the UK in 1999 due to the harmful impact of exposure to respiratory health and it remains the UK’s biggest cause of work-related deaths. It may lead to several serious lung conditions including:
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Mesothelioma – a cancer affecting the lining of the lungs
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Asbestos related lung cancer
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Asbestosis – scarring of lung tissues
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Pleural thickening – a condition affecting the outer lining of the lungs
Who requires an asbestos medical?
If your staff undertake any of the following roles, then they have the potential to be exposed to asbestos within the workplace:
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General maintenance workers
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Electricians, plumbers, and joiners
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Plasterers, painters, and decorators
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Construction workers and roofers
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Shop fitters
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Gas fitters and heating and ventilation engineers
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Demolition workers
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Telecommunication engineers
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Fire/intruder alarm installers
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Computer and data installers
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Architects and building surveyors
Licensed Asbestos Medical
All workers undertaking licensed Health and Safety Executive (HSE) asbestos work should undergo a medical consultation with an approved Health and Safety Executive (HSE) occupational health physician (doctor) every 2 years.
This will ensure that any potential respiratory condition associated with working with asbestos is identified as soon as reasonably practicable and that where necessary the employer is advised of any additional control measures which can be put in place to reduce harm, which may include restricting them from working with asbestos if required.
The Appointed Doctor will ensure that the necessary legal forms are completed.
Further guidance on what work will require a licensed medical see - Licensable work with asbestos (hse.gov.uk)
Non-Licensed Asbestos Medical
Workers undertaking non-licensed Health and Safety Executive (HSE) asbestos work are also advised to undergo a medical consultation with a occupational health physician (doctor) every 3 years.
This will ensure that any potential respiratory condition associated with working with asbestos is identified as soon as reasonably practicable and that where necessary the employer is advised of any additional control measures which can be put in place to reduce harm, which may include restricting them from working with asbestos if required.
Further guidance on what work will require a non-licensed medical see - Non-licensed work with asbestos (hse.gov.uk)
Additional information about the management of asbestos risks in the workplace can be found on the HSE website - Asbestos information, instruction and training (hse.gov.uk)
Our Asbestos Medicals
FAQs
What happens when you work around asbestos?
Working around asbestos without proper precautions can release asbestos fibres into the air. Inhaling these fibres can cause serious health issues, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Always use protective equipment and follow safety regulations to minimise exposure.
What should I do if I find asbestos at work?
If you find asbestos at work, avoid disturbing it and immediately inform your supervisor or safety officer. Follow workplace safety procedures and ensure a licensed asbestos professional assesses and handles the material safely.
Is it legal to work around asbestos?
Yes, it is legal to work around asbestos, but strict regulations must be followed to ensure safety. Employers are required to assess risks, provide training, and implement controls to minimize exposure under laws like OSHA in the U.S. or equivalent regulations in other countries.
What are the dangers of working with asbestos?
Working with asbestos is dangerous because inhaling its fibres can cause severe health issues, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. These diseases often develop years after exposure and can be life-threatening. Proper precautions are essential to reduce risks.
See more related services from us
In addition to offering asbestos medicals for your workforce, we provide a range of related services that can benefit your business. See the full list of services below.
If you want to learn more about our occupational health services, contact us today and speak to a member of our team.
