When it comes to working with or around asbestos, health surveillance isn’t just a precaution, it’s a legal and medical necessity. One of the most important tools in monitoring long-term health risks is lung function testing. This test can provide early warning signs of potential damage for workers exposed to asbestos, even before symptoms appear.
At Pathways Occupational Health, we support businesses in high-risk environments with professional, HSE-compliant lung function testing. Backed by nearly 50 years of hands-on industry experience, we deliver expert guidance and care to protect your team and keep your workplace compliant.
What Is Lung Function Testing?
Lung function testing, also known as spirometry, measures how well a person’s lungs are working. It assesses how much air the lungs can hold and how efficiently air can be moved in and out.
This test is crucial for asbestos workers because if asbestos fibres are inhaled, they can cause scarring and inflammation in the lungs over time. Lung function tests help identify early changes before they become serious or irreversible.
Why Is Lung Function Testing Important for Asbestos Workers?
Asbestos exposure is linked to a range of serious respiratory conditions, including:
- Asbestosis
- Pleural thickening
- Lung cancer
- Mesothelioma
Lung function tests allow occupational health professionals to monitor respiratory health over time, ensuring that any signs of deterioration are addressed early. This is especially important in jobs where exposure may happen daily or in high volumes.
What to Expect During the Test
Lung function testing is quick, painless, and non-invasive. Here’s what workers can typically expect:
- Pre-Test Questionnaire
The session begins with a short discussion about medical history, symptoms, and any current respiratory issues. - Using the Spirometer
The individual will be asked to take a deep breath and blow as hard and fast as they can into a mouthpiece connected to a spirometer. This measures lung capacity and airflow. - Multiple Attempts
Usually, the test is repeated three times to ensure accurate and consistent results. - Review and Recommendations
The results are reviewed by a qualified technician or physician. If any abnormalities are detected, further investigation or recommendations may follow.
At Pathways Occupational Health, all testing is carried out by trained professionals in line with HSE guidance, ensuring accuracy, reliability, and confidentiality.
When Should Lung Function Tests Be Conducted?
Lung function testing is typically part of the asbestos medical, which is a legal requirement under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. This includes:
- An initial health assessment before beginning licensed asbestos work
- Follow-up assessments at least every two years
- Additional testing if symptoms or health changes are reported
Employers have a duty of care to ensure these tests are carried out by HSE-appointed doctors and supported by competent occupational health professionals.
Other Key and Helpful Information
- Lung function assessments are required under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations, ensuring that employees are not at risk of ill health due to inhaling hazardous substances.
- If you use a 12- or 24-hour inhaler, you may continue taking it as usual. However, please refrain from using a short-acting reliever inhaler for up to 4 hours before your appointment.
Why Choose Pathways Occupational Health?
With decades of experience supporting businesses in heavy industry, manufacturing, construction, and engineering, Pathways Occupational Health understands the risks and the realities of asbestos exposure.
Our team includes Qualified Nurses, Technicians and HSE-approved physicians,, all committed to providing reliable, clear, and proactive occupational health services.
We deliver lung function testing, asbestos medicals, and ongoing, on-site and off-site health surveillance to keep your team safe and your operations compliant.
Whether you need a one-off assessment or an ongoing programme, we’re here to help. Contact us and protect your team with professional lung function testing from Pathways Occupational Health.