Asbestos Medical
The import and use of asbestos in the UK has been banned since the mid-1980s. However, legacy asbestos is still present in a number of industrial, commercial and domestic settings. Individuals who are employed in a manner that may cause them to be exposed to asbestos e.g. demolition, site clearance, removal of asbestos or asbestos-containing structures, or maintenance of plant that contains asbestos are covered by the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations (2012). Workers engaged in such activities are likely to require an asbestos medical examination in accordance with the Regulations.
What type of asbestos medical do I require?
Work with asbestos falls into two categories – Licensed and Notifiable non-licensed work. With a licensed medical you are invited to join a registry of asbestos workers (for research purposes only) and the certificate is worded slightly differently, which will be green. The certificate provided after an unlicensed medical being on ordinary white paper. The appropriate asbestos medical examination to support both activities can be undertaken by Proteus Occupational Medicine Services. If you know which type of activity you require a medical for, you can book an appointment via the booking portal. If you are unsure please contact us and we will be happy to advise.
What is the purpose of an asbestos medical?
The purpose of the medical is to assess for evidence of a respiratory condition that might be asbestos-related so that this can be investigated further.
What is involved in an asbestos medical?
Asbestos medicals are scheduled for 1 hour.
- You will be required to complete an HSE respiratory screening questionnaire
- followed by an assessment of your lung function – spirometry – and a clinical examination of your respiratory system.
- On completion of your medical, you will be issued with the appropriate certificate of medical examination, valid for a maximum of 2 years. This is a statement that you have been medically examined in accordance with Regulation 22 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations (2012).
The certificate is not a certificate of fitness to work with asbestos, it just confirms you have undergone a medical assessment. A copy will be provided to both you and your employer without the findings of the medical.
How should I prepare for an asbestos medical?
Please wear appropriate clothing to facilitate the clinical examination of your respiratory system – chest, front and back.
Please bring the following with you to your appointment:
- Your most recent certificate of medical examination
- A list of all medications you are taking
- Your peak flow diary if you have a respiratory condition and your GP or specialist has advised you to keep a diary.
Chaperones are available by prior arrangement. I you would like a chaperone for your medical examination, please indicate this when you book your appointment.