Asbestos in the Workplace: Risks, Exposure & Health Checks
What Are the Risks of Asbestos Exposure at Work?
Medically reviewed by Dr Peter Aldridge
Chief Medical Officer, Assist Group
WorkCover-accredited Medical Practitioner – Hazardous Substances
40 years' experience in Industrial and Occupational Medicine
Last reviewed: June 2026
Have you ever wondered why asbestos is such a serious concern in the workplace? Although banned in Australia since 2003, asbestos still exists in many older buildings, factories, and industrial settings. When materials containing asbestos are disturbed, tiny fibres can become airborne. And when inhaled, they pose significant health risks.
Common Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
Here are some of the health risks associated with asbestos exposure.
- Mesothelioma – a rare but aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs or abdomen.
- Asbestosis – a chronic lung condition caused by inhaling asbestos fibres.
- Lung Cancer – with an increased risk for those exposed to asbestos.
- Pleural Thickening – where the lining of the lungs swells and thickens, causing breathing difficulty.
These conditions often develop slowly over time and may not appear until years after exposure. That’s why early detection and workplace prevention are so important.
How to Manage Asbestos in the Workplace
If your team operates in environments where asbestos may still be present, it’s essential to have a plan. Not just for legal compliance, but for the health and peace of mind of your employees.
Steps to Manage Asbestos Exposure at Work
- Identify potential asbestos-containing materials (ACMs)
Have a licensed professional conduct an audit of older buildings or sites.
- Implement an Asbestos Management Plan
Under Work Health and Safety (WHS) legislation, businesses must document how asbestos risks will be controlled.
- Conduct regular Asbestos Medicals
Workers exposed or likely to be exposed to asbestos require medical monitoring. Here at Assist Group, we provide Asbestos Medicals, performed by a WorkCover-accredited doctor to monitor the impact of Asbestos exposure on a worker’s lungs and overall health. It is required for workers exposed to Asbestos under Australian WHS and Dust Diseases legislation.
- Train your staff
Ensure your team understands safe handling practices and when to report suspected exposure.
- Use appropriate PPE and containment
Personal protective equipment, air monitoring, and isolation protocols are key to minimising exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is asbestos exposure?
Asbestos exposure occurs when a person breathes in asbestos fibres, usually through airborne particles released from disturbed asbestos-containing materials.
What happens if you are exposed to asbestos at work?
You may not feel any immediate effects, but prolonged or repeated exposure can lead to serious diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis. That’s why asbestos health monitoring and early intervention are vital.
Is asbestos exposure at work dangerous?
Yes. Even low levels of exposure, over time, can cause severe and irreversible health damage.
How can asbestos be safely managed in the workplace?
Through identification, risk assessments, asbestos management plans, staff training, and regular asbestos medical assessments performed by qualified professionals.
Are employers legally required to provide asbestos medicals?
Yes. Employers are generally required to provide asbestos medicals for workers who are exposed or likely to be exposed to asbestos fibres.
These requirements are outlined under state-specific Dust Diseases legislation (such as the Dust Diseases Act 1942 in NSW) and Section 274 of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, which provides model WHS regulations adopted by most states and territories.
It's important to check your local WHS regulator for specific requirements that apply in your state or industry.
Assist Group can help you navigate these obligations with WorkCover-accredited asbestos medicals, tailored health surveillance programs, and expert guidance to keep your workplace compliant and your people protected.
Why Choose Assist Group?
At Assist Group, we understand the stress and uncertainty that can come with asbestos exposure. That’s why our Asbestos Medicals are designed to give both employers and workers peace of mind. Each assessment includes:
- Lung function testing
- Spirometry
- Chest X-ray
- PPE compliance review
- Blood pressure and general health checks
- Education and counselling session to address concerns
Whether following an exposure incident or as part of a regular workplace program, our accredited doctors ensure your team is supported every step of the way.
Asbestos Medicals assessments are conducted via appointment only and must be booked in advance. We have the capacity to assess large groups if you have a need for bulk Asbestos Medicals.
Enquire With Us Today
Book your Asbestos Medicals today or speak with our team about implementing a workplace surveillance program tailored to your needs.
Phone our medical reception in your location by CLICKING HERE, or submit your details in the contact form below.