What is typically included in pre-placement exams for asbestos workers?

Pre-placement exams for asbestos workers are crucial for assessing an individual's fitness to handle the risks associated with asbestos exposure. These exams typically include a comprehensive medical evaluation and pulmonary function tests. The medical evaluation helps determine if the worker has any pre-existing health conditions that would make them more susceptible to the adverse effects of asbestos exposure. Pulmonary function tests specifically measure how well the lungs are working, which is particularly important since asbestos exposure can lead to respiratory issues, such as asbestosis or lung cancer.

Including these evaluations ensures that workers are placed in roles that do not pose additional risks to their health and safety, and allows employers to monitor any changes in health status over time as part of ongoing health surveillance.