Evidence from:
HSE Con Doc CD 176.
The Radar report is available to subscribers:
Evidence from:
Managing asbestos in premises. rev. ed., HSE, 2001. (INDG223 (rev2)) ISBN 07176209214
Aimed at people who own, occupy, manage or have responsibilities for premises which may contain asbestos and explains a new duty to manage these premises under the revised Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations (due to come into force in 2002). It advises how to identify, assess and manage any asbestos-containing materials in premises to protect the health of workers or others who may use the premises. A checklist is included.
Comment
Health surveillance organised in this way should be effective in setting a date of knowledge among groups of co-workers who display similar signs. However, it may be many years after being put on notice before any firm evidence of harm is found. Clear guidance on the prognostic value of early signs would be helpful in reducing uncertainty. HSE guide MS 13 informs medical practitioners of relevant early signs, but cautions that they are non-specific.
The other obvious reason for undertaking health surveillance/ screening is the fitness of workers to use breathing apparatus. Some lung diseases contra-indicate the use of BA.