Why do you need it?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral previously used in construction and heavy industry in Australia. Although the use of asbestos was banned in 2003, its use continues in some countries and asbestos containing material may still be found on Australian work sites as a legacy of its use prior to the ban.
Workers may be at risk of exposure to asbestos when handling these materials including:
- older buildings and utilities which may have used asbestos containing materials including:
- fibrous cement sheeting and pipe work
- external cladding
- vinyl tiles
- electrical components:
- electrical insulation
- switchboards
- meters
- brakes and clutches:
- brake linings
- clutch components
- industrial and marine gaskets.
Primarily a respiratory hazard, the risk of exposure increases when breaking, cutting or drilling asbestos containing materials. Prolonged exposure to asbestos fibres can lead to irreversible lung disease including:
- Asbestosis - a chronic lung disease caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos fibres. These tiny, needle-like fibres become lodged in the lung tissue, leading to inflammation and scarring leading to shortness of breath, persistent cough and chest pain. Those who develop asbestosis are at a higher risk of developing lung cancer.
- Mesothelioma - a type of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells, which cover most internal organs. It occurs in the thin layer of tissue called the mesothelium commonly this is found in the lungs and abdominal region.
Asbestos exposure is associated with an increased risk of developing lung cancer, ovarian and laryngeal cancers.
How does it work?
Due to the irreversible effects of asbestos exposure, health monitoring and early intervention is required to protect workers who are required to handle asbestos containing material; or those who suspect or are concerned they have been exposed to asbestos containing material and there is significant risk to health.
Under the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (WHS Regulation), a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) must ensure health monitoring is provided if the worker is either:
- carrying out licensed asbestos removal work at a workplace and is at risk of exposure to asbestos when carrying out the work
- carrying out other ongoing asbestos removal work or asbestos-related work and is at risk of exposure to asbestos when carrying out the work.
When is health monitoring required:
- prior to commencing asbestos related removal work
- at scheduled periods during employment involving handling of asbestos or asbestos containing material as defined by a registered medical professional
- at least once every 2 years for workers handling asbestos
- after possible unplanned exposure if an assessment determines health risk
- medical examination on termination of asbestos related work.
The medical assessment requirements include:
- demographic, medical and occupational history
- review of records of personal exposure
- physical examination with a focus on the respiratory system
- spirometry (lung function test) – this not strictly required but is noninvasive and does not add significant costs and can detect respiratory changes early
- health counselling (as required).
We can conduct both medical assessments and biological monitoring as part of your health monitoring requirements. These assessments can be conducted in our clinics or on your site (for minimum numbers).
