Lead, ionising radiation & asbestos medicals
What we can provide
We work closely with a number of occupational health physicians (OHP) across the UK to provide a convenient, cost effective solution to monitoring the exposure of your employees to lead, asbestos & ionising radiation. We only work with highly trained, HSE appointed doctors, who are able to provide professional,competent advice on the surveillance required to comply with legislation.
Lead Medicals
Legislation; The control of lead at work (CLAW) Regulations 2002 outlines exposure limits and when medical surveillance is necessary.
Health risks; Lead is a hazardous chemical which is widely known to cause a number of health issues. Prolonged exposure to high concentrations can cause, kidney, brain and nerve damage; more common side effects are headaches, tiredness and nausea.
For Whom; Exposure in the workplace can be through a number of forms, for example; removal and burning of lead paint, recycling appliances, manufacturing leaded glass and working with leaded solder. Exposure can occur through breathing vapour, dust or fumes or by swallowing e.g. not washing hands before eating.
What needs to be done; We offer monitoring of lead through blood testing.
When; Before employment commences. The exact frequency is dependent on the results and working environment, but tests must be carried out at least every 12 months.
Asbestos Medicals
Legislation; The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 provides further detail into the steps employers are required to take.
From April 2015, all workers undertaking notifiable non-licensed work will also be subject to medical surveillance by a Doctor. Previously, this was only required for licensed contractors.
Health Risks; Asbestos was a popular building material used until the year 2000, due to its insulating, fire retardant and waterproof properties. Inhaling asbestos fibres can cause very serious health issues such as lung cancer, mesothelioma and scarring of the lungs (asbestosis).
For Whom; If asbestos exceeds the following action levels, medical surveillance is necessary:
• 72 fibre-hours per millilitre of air – Employees exposed solely to chrysotile.
• 48 fibre-hours per millilitre of air – Employees exposed to any other form of asbestos.
• There are presently exemptions for workers with sporadic and insignificant exposure, please refer to the legislation.
What needs to be done; The medical will include a lung function test and an extensive questionnaire of the employees medical history.
When; Before employment commences and then at least every two years. For non-licensed work, testing is required once every three years.
New legislation came into force in April 2015 for non-licensed work with Asbestos.
Ionising radiation medicals
Legislation; The Ionising Radiation Regulations 1999 (IRR99) provide more information about dose limits and the health effects of ionising radiation.
Health risks; The primary long term health risk of ionising radiation is increased risk of developing cancer, therefore strict dose limits are put in place. Extreme exposure to high levels of ionising radiation can damage tissue and organs.
For Whom; Employees who are at high risk of radiation in work are known as ‘classified workers’. These are employees who have been exposed to radiation in excess of 6mSv per year. Workers who have received an over exposure will also need to be assessed.
What needs to be done; Examination includes an assessment of the dosimeter records and is specific to each working environment. It can include a check of the skin, respiratory system and occasionally a blood test.
When; Before employment commences, followed annually by a medical assessment.
What we suggest
Requirements for these services greatly differ between companies, depending on the activities being carried out and the existing control measures put in place. Contact us to discuss your exact requirement for our OHP-led services.
