Asbestos Health Surveillance Medicals
At Moorhouse Medical Centre we specialise in Asbestos Health Surveillance Medicals.
What happens during the medical?
Questionnaire
An occupational health nurse will guide you through a comprehensive questionnaire about your occupational and environmental history, potential exposure history, respiratory symptoms and history. You will also discuss personal protective equipment and any issues with this.
Spirometry
You will have a spirometry lung function test which help identify either:
- Normal lung function
- Obstructive pattern lung function
- Restrictive pattern lung function
Chest X-Ray
Chest x-ray is the most common tool used to detect asbestos-related diseases. It is important to note that x-rays cannot detect asbestos fibres in the lungs, but they can help identify any early signs of lung disease resulting from asbestos exposure. WorkSafe New Zealand have revised their view of what 'good practice' looks like with regards to Section 16.5 and 16.6 of WorkSafe ACOP: Management and removal of asbestos. A chest x-ray is no longer required, unless a specialist recommends it.
Why screen for Asbestos exposure?
Asbestos exposure is linked to asbestosis, lung cancer and an aggressive cancer called mesothelioma. Inhaling asbestos fibres can cause permanent and irreversible damage to vital organs. Typically, disease occurs 10 – 50 years after exposure. Early detection is often difficult; asbestos-related disease symptoms are generally vague and can be easily confused with other illnesses, such as pneumonia. Monitoring your health is a legislative requirement. Occupations with a high risk of asbestos exposure include, but are not limited to:
- Construction trades
- Workers involved in the manufacture of asbestos products
- Asbestos mining and milling
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- Carpenters.