Asbestos Medicals
In many cases asbestos is thought to be a problem of the past, however it can still be found today in buildings built or refurbished before the year 2000. The HSE states that asbestos still kills approximately 5000 workers every year, more than the number of people killed on the road. it is also thought that around 20 tradesmen die a week due to past exposure.
What are the risks of asbestos?
When asbestos is disturbed or damaged fibres are released into the air. When the fibres are inhaled they can cause serious diseases of the lungs, such as:
- Mesothelioma – A type of cancer affecting the lining of the lungs.
- Asbestos Related Lung Cancer – This type of cancer is the same as that caused by smoking.
- Asbestosis – A serious scarring condition of the lung which can occur after long term exposure to asbestos. Asbestosis may cause progressive shortness of breath and in some cases can be fatal.
Am I at risk?
You may be at risk os asbestos exposure if you are one of the following:
- Construction Worker
- Electrician
- Building Surveyor
- Heating and Ventilation Engineer
- Gas Fitter
- Demolition Worker
- Painter or Decorator
- For more information on asbestos and the HSE recommendations please visit the HSE website: http://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/index.htm.
What we do
Regulation – The Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2002
We have a detailed questionnaire specially designed for asbestos medicals in line with the HSE guidelines which enables us to get information on the employees general health and lifestyle. This is followed by a clinical examination by our HSE Appointed Occupational Health Doctor, which inlcudes a test on lung function and capacity. Once the examination is complete both the employee and employer is provided with a Certificate of Medical Examination. Our asbestos medicals are valid for 3 years.
